Bethesda

Bethesda is a Biblical name meaning "House of Mercy." Early family names in the community included Alexander, Bond, Blythe, Grigsby, Irvin, Sprott, Steeke, and Waddey. Beloved area physicians were Drs. Blythe, Core, Eggleston, and Bennett. Gone but once thriving were Chrisman's broom factory, Mosley's sawmill, Scales' store and post office, and Waddey's chair factory. Masonic Lodge 201 was organized in 1830. The community's first two school buildings were at the crossroads before the school moved to this hill in 1936. The Methodist Church, organized in 1832, moved to its present location in 1960. The Presbyterian Church was organized and built in 1879.

Tennessee · United States