Welcome to Post #2 in our Founders & Frontiers series—highlighting the early Hendersonvillians connected to the Bradford-Berry House and their lasting contributions to our city, county, and nation.
By July 1916, growing tensions with Mexico fostered a new urgency across the country. Tennessee—the Volunteer State—was ready once again. From earlier conflicts to this moment on the Mexican border, Tennesseans—especially Sumner Countians—turned out in proud numbers to defend our homeland.
In response, Governor Rye issued the call for volunteers to serve. Among those preparing to answer was Major Harry Smith Berry, now promoted to Colonel Harry Smith Berry, leading his “Tennessee Boys” of the First Tennessee Infantry.
For two months, the unit waited at Camp Tom C. Rye for orders to move south—but Colonel Berry didn’t allow waiting to become idle time. Determined to keep his troops ready, he even brought them to the family farm in Hendersonville for more extensive training.
A newspaper account captured the moment as Hendersonville showed up to support its soldiers:
That image—our town lining the route, the soldiers marching through the village, and tents raised beneath the trees on the Berry farm—reflects a community that didn’t just witness history… it took part in it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the “Tennessee Boys”?
The “Tennessee Boys” were the soldiers of the First Tennessee Infantry, led by Colonel Harry Smith Berry during the 1916 Mexican border mobilization.
What was Camp Tom C. Rye?
Camp Tom C. Rye was the Tennessee mustering camp, named for Governor Tom C. Rye, where the First Tennessee Infantry waited about two months in 1916 for orders to deploy to the Mexican border.
Why did Colonel Berry train troops in Hendersonville?
Colonel Harry Smith Berry brought the First Tennessee Infantry to his family’s farm in Hendersonville, Tennessee, for extra training to keep the men ready while they awaited orders.
