James S. Gilliland, an African American native of Shelbyville born on November 15, 1858, was a self-taught stone mason who worked extensively with limestone. He envisioned turning his log house into a stone home with fifteen-inch-thick walls quarried over six years, using some pieces that weighed hundreds of pounds. Today, sections of the walls are open to highlight his mastery in craftsmanship. He died on December 12, 1949. Gilliland's stone masonry can be seen at many notable homes and businesses in Bedford County, including the Court House. In 1975, the James S. Gilliland House was listed in the National Register of Historic Places for its importance as a remarkable example of African American building skill and masonry. The Gilliland Historical Resource Center, Inc. promotes Gilliland's importance along with the multicultural heritage of Bedford County through programming and the collection of memorabilia.