DeKalb County, Tennessee
DeKalb County sits in the heart of Middle Tennessee, where rolling countryside, local history, and natural beauty come together. The county gets its name from Johann de Kalb, a Revolutionary War hero.
Smithville serves as the county seat, while Center Hill Lake is a major draw for visitors looking to fish, boat, or simply enjoy the scenery. The annual Fiddlers’ Jamboree brings musicians and music lovers together from across the country. The surrounding hills add a rugged touch to the landscape and make the area especially scenic.
Agriculture remains an important part of everyday life, with nurseries and orchards spread across the countryside. DeKalb County has a relaxed pace and a welcoming small-town atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, enjoy the outdoors, and appreciate life’s simpler pleasures.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | DeKalb County |
| County Seat | Smithville |
| Population | Approximately 21,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Smithville, Alexandria, Liberty, Dowelltown |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 70, State Highway 83 |
| FIPS Code | 47-041 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 329 square miles (304 sq mi land, 25 sq mi water) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Putnam County (Northeast), White County (East), Warren County (South), Cannon County (Southwest), Wilson County (West), Smith County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Tennessee |
| Coordinates | 35°58’N, 85°48’W |
| Etymology | Named after Johann de Kalb, a German-born officer who served in the American Revolutionary War |
| Major Landmarks | Center Hill Lake, Edgar Evins State Park, Smithville Fiddlers’ Jamboree |
