TN Writers TN Stories: Montgomery Bell: Tenn. Frontier Capitalist

Montgomery Bell: Tennessee Frontier Capitalist is the first biography of the legendary Tennessee ironmaster, whose generous bequest enabled the founding of Montgomery Bell Academy (MBA) in 1867. The book highlights the major events in Bell’s life, from his childhood in Pennsylvania during the American Revolution, to his first career as a hat-maker in Lexington, Kentucky, through his half century as the most prominent operator of iron furnaces and forges in Tennessee.
The book includes details of the many other ventures that were part of his business career, including his land development activities in Kentucky and Tennessee and his ownership of the first spa resort in Kentucky. Bell had business dealings with several of the most prominent men of the 19th century, including Nashville founder James Robertson, General Andrew Jackson, two-time Presidential candidate Henry Clay, Belle Meade Plantation owner John Harding, and Nashville attorney Francis Fogg (for whom Hume-Fogg High School is named).
One of the most popular state parks in Tennessee, Montgomery Bell State Park, is named for Bell. Bells Bend Park in Davidson County is also named for him.

John P. Williams is a Nashville attorney who has written the very first biography of Montgomery Bell, the legendary 19th century Tennessee ironmaster for whom Montgomery Bell State Park and Montgomery Bell Academy are named. John has practiced law in Tennessee for more than 50 years and is a frequent contributor to legal and historical journals. This is his first book.

Clay Bailey has taught history at Montgomery Bell Academy since 1995. He earned a PhD. from Vanderbilt in 1999 and an undergraduate degree from Sewanee in 1987. A native Nashvillian with deep roots, he has become more engaged in local history and historic preservation over the last 15 years. He has served as a commissioner on the Metro Historical Commission since 2013 and also serves on the boards of the Friends of Fort Negley, the Nashville City Cemetery Association, and the Battle of Nashville Trust.

This event is part of our series. Readings and discussions take place in the Digital Learning Center at the Tennessee State Museum. Most events include an opportunity to purchase books through the Museum store and get them signed by the author. If you show your Eventbrite ticket you will receive a 10% discount on your book purchase in the Museum store. Seating is limited and is on a first come, first served basis, with priority given to those who RSVP through Eventbrite.

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