Here Are Some Of The Very First Photos Ever Taken In Nashville

If you've ever wished for a time machine, then the archives at the Nashville Public Library might provide you with a thoroughly historic respite from reality. The expansive digital archive has been organized in the past few years, and its presentation of local history is truly unmatched. We scoured the digital tomes and found some of the very first photos taken in Nashville, and the 19th-century era experience is one that you'll never forget. You can always peruse the archives for yourself if you're curious on its official website.

1. Here you can see the Commerce Building and Auditorium at the Tennessee Centennial and International Exposition.

This photograph was taken in 1897, just before the turn of the century.

2. Curious what these young women are doing...?

This photo was taken of a gymnastics class at Ward's Seminary for Young Ladies. It was taken between 1890 and 1899.

3. Fogg High School is probably a name that you've heard tossed around the city's history classes.

Here's a shot of the school's junior class in 1892.

4. Speaking of schools, folks...

...here's a shot of the Main Street School faculty in Nashville taken in 1892.

5. Do you know 10th Avenue was once known as Walnut Street?

This is shot was taken in 1897, and you can see men laying granite along the now-defunct Walnut Street.

6. The Tennessee Centennial and International Exposition took place in 1897.

This photograph of the Machinery Building was taken in the same year.

7. Have you ever heard of the City Hay Market?

It used to be located on 4th Avenue S between both McGavock and Demonbreun Streets.

Continue to enjoy everything Tennessee has to offer with a visit to these eight state parks that are perfect for camping throughout the state.