We have some pretty amazing caves throughout our state, each with their own history. The Dunbar Cave in Clarksville, Tennessee, is one of the state’s most intriguing caves, and there is something particularly unique about the history of this cavern worth looking into. This Tennessee cave has a musical history that is wholly, wonderfully unique.

If you have visited Dunbar Cave before you may have noticed a peculiar sight at a cave entrance.
Dunbar Cave State Park/ Facebook
A building sitting off to the side seems like a strange man-made structure among the natural beauty. There is a platform on the other side and it might also strike you as odd at first but that structure in fact a bandstand.
The building on the other side was once a concession stand for the concerts and dances that were hosted here. The balcony was covered in chairs and tables for people to enjoy the music and a meal during these fun events.
Dunbar Cave State Park/ Facebook
The big band era was king in the early 1900s and swing dancing was the latest craze.
Dunbar Cave State Park/ Facebook
The Dunbar Cave was the perfect place to host a wild party. Walking to the entrance now you can just imagine the horns blaring, the drums thumping, and the crowd exuberant with dancing and joy.

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Concrete was poured for a dance floor and the cold air from the mouth of the cave cooled off guests as they danced the night away.
Dunbar Cave State Park/ Facebook
Later Roy Acuff purchased the cave and hosted a different kind of party. Square dancing took place of the swing and twangy guitars replaced the screeching horns of Big Band. The crowds came ready to do-si-do just as much as did when partners were flung to the exciting beat.
Dunbar Cave State Park/ Facebook
The cave is now owned by the state and to celebrate the rich musical history of the cave they will host events taking you back in time to when this cave was used as a concert and dance hall.
Dunbar Cave State Park/ Facebook

The Dunbar Cave in Clarksville, Tennessee, certainly left its mark with a concession stand and a bandstand that are still there to this day. Not many caves have quite a history as this one and walking in the (dance) shoes of those guests from the early 1900s is a great way to relive history. For more information and to check the calendar of events, please visit the Dunbar Cave State Park page. 

If you love exploring Tennessee caves, then you will love this cave that also has a fascinating history. 

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Dunbar Cave State Park, 401 Old Dunbar Cave Rd, Clarksville, TN 37043, USA