Lebanon,
originally called "one of the prettiest of Tennessee's country
towns", became a center of commerce, culture and education. The cedars
are what gave the place its name, Lebanon, a reminder of the Biblical land
of the cedars. On Nov. 23, 1819, the City of Lebanon was officially incorporated.
The cities nearest neighbor is the small town of Gladeville, known simply
as "The Glade" and is named after the cedar glades in the area.
Lebanon is located in the center of Wilson County. The quickly developing
urban area is situated between the busy Nashville and the rural setting east
Wilson County has to offer. Lebanon is home to some big name companies including
Dell Computers, Toshiba and Bridgestone/Firestone manufacturing centers.
Lebanon has several antique stores and retail shopping centers. The city
is also home to Prime Outlet Mall. which is located just off I-40.
The Wilson County school system is considered a top school system as education
is paramount in Lebanon. The Lebanon/10th Special School District provides
education through junior high school. The Glade is home to the new Wilson
Central High School, which is in its third year.
Lebanon is home to the Don Fox Community Park with wading pool, sand volleyball
courts, large play area for children and numerous walking trails along Cedar
Creek. Lebanon also has easy access to both J. Percy Priest and Old Hickory
Lakes and Cedars of Lebanon State Park. These parks, located in Wilson and
neighboring Rutherford Counties, are some of the most beautiful natural settings
you can imagine seeing.
The life size statue of General Robert Hatton has dominated the center of
the Public Square since May 20, 1912. Lebanon played a key part in the civil
war. Several Wilson County men served as soldiers in both the Confederate
and Federal Armies. A battle was fought in the center of the square, when
the federal army sneak attacked the confederates, who managed to escape.
Fifty antique dealers located on all sides of the Square have proclaimed
Lebanon the Antique City of the South. Come and see for yourself, wear comfortable
shoes, find a friendly atmosphere, and visit where the past meets the future.