Anderson County Archives

07/01/2026

Hello fellow history lovers!

A brief update for you all today. Please note that tomorrow and Friday the Anderson County Courthouse will be closed in observance of the 4th of July Holiday.

We look forward to serving you on Monday the 6th!

Please have safe weekend as we gear up to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nations beginning.

05/19/2026

Hello fellow history lovers!

Today, is a somber anniversary. The 124th anniversary of the Fraterville Mine Disaster.

I think it is incredibly important to not just study history but to remember it. If you could take a moment today to consider those men who lost their lives, some mercifully quickly, others brutally slowly. Think of their wives upon hearing and feeling the explosion from nearby and how their lives were forever changed in an instant. Think of the children who's fathers, brothers and Uncles didn't come home.

Overall, there is one heartbreaking moment that sticks with me and will always remain in my thoughts on this day:

"Oh God, for one more breath." Jacob Vowell wrote as he waited for rescue for him, his son Elbert, and the 24 other men who had barricaded themselves into a side passage in the mine. Sadly, no rescue would come in time to save these men.

On June 8, 1902 at the Briceville Community Church, a mass service was held to remember the miners killed in this explosion.

I hope today you'll take a moment to remember these men and the community that was affected by each of their deaths. Truly a somber day of remembrance for Anderson County history.

Until next time, friends.

02/12/2026

Hello everyone,

If you are trying to call the courthouse today and can't get through, you aren't alone.

Phone lines are down through our provider.

Keep trying every thirty minutes or so.

Thank you all and have a fantastic day!

Zach Foster, Archivist

Some are finding it difficult to contact the Sheriff's Office and the Anderson County Courthouse offices.

01/25/2026

Hello fellow history lovers!

I wanted to help spread the word that the Anderson County Courthouse will be closed tomorrow. Please stay in and stay safe. The temperature is supposed to fall pretty drastically tonight and won't be above freezing by morning.

You all stay warm out there and we'll see you again soon from the Archives!

12/24/2025

Just a friendly reminder everyone that the Courthouse will be closed Wednesday and Thursday this week in observation of Christmas. Stay safe and enjoy this heat wave everyone!

12/04/2025

Hello, fellow history lovers.

Today is a sad update. The loss of one of Clinton's own, Jo Ann Allen Boyce, one of the original Clinton 12.

If, for some reason, you are unfamiliar with their story, please take a moment to visit the Green McAdoo Cultural Center via the link shared below.

Rest in Peace, ma'am.