 CANNON COUNTY 
Jim Cummings, left, is honored toward the end of his tenure in the state legislature. Tennessee State Library & Archives As far as state legislators are concerned, none have ever been more powerful than “Mister” Jim Cummings, who was first elected to the state house in 1928 and stayed there until 1972 (other than a four-year hiatus as Tennessee Secretary of State from 1949 until 1953). Cummings was a brilliant legislator and a big friend to the farmer; he fought hard to keep the legislature under the control of the rural parts of the state (at the expense of the cities). One of his favorite, and more controversial quotes, was “I believe in collecting the taxes where the money is – in the cities – and spending it where it’s needed – in the country.” During his lifetime Cummings was engaged in many bitter political battles against “Boss” Ed Crump of For more information about Jim Cummings and “Boss” Ed Crump, read the book One Man, One Vote by Gene Graham. You should be able to find a copy at a used bookstore or at the library. 
A girl making a basket from white oak PHOTO: Arts Center of Cannon County Also regarding Cannon County: The area near Woodbury has always been known for its arts -- especially basketmaking and chairmaking. No one is really certain how this got started, but by the Great Depression there were people here making their living at these crafts. This legacy is celebrated by an organization called the Arts Center of Cannon County.
The Cannon County Courthouse
And here is a photo of the Cannon County Courthouse. |
All photographs taken by Bill Carey for THKF unless otherwise stated.