Julie A. Oaks
TDOT, Public Information Officer
 Office: 615.741.2331
Mobile: 615.533.7105
Fax: 615.741.9093

Governor Bredesen Announces Enhancement Grant for Madison County

Nashville, Tenn. - Governor Phil Bredesen announced today that the state will provide Madison County and the community of Denmark with an enhancement grant of $129,328 to assist with the stabilization and preservation of the Historic Denmark Presbyterian Church. 

The historic church was built in 1854 and is the only pre-civil war structure standing in the community of Denmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Phase one of this project includes work to stabilize the 153-year old building for use as a museum which will house displays highlighting the transportation history of the Denmark and Big Black Creek area.

“The history of our communities is an important piece of who we are today,” said Governor Bredesen. “I’m pleased that we are able to provide this enhancement grant to Madison County to preserve a piece of that history.”

“This landmark building boasts a rich and unique history,” said Senator Lowe Finney. ”During its 153 years the building has served as a church, meeting place, a Civil War prison for one night, and now a museum.  I’m pleased to see the Governor and state pledging these funds to preserve this historic community treasure.”
 
Representative Johnny Shaw added, “It’s important to preserve the important stories of our past for future generations.  This is one of the oldest structures in the region and it has many stories to tell. I’m pleased to see the state assisting the Denmark community with restoration of this important piece of their heritage.”

The grant is made possible through a federally funded program administered by the Tennessee Department of Transportation.

“Through the Enhancement Grant Program, TDOT has helped fund approximately $189 million in transportation related projects such as the restoration of historic facilities, bike and pedestrian trails, landscaping and other non-traditional transportation projects,” said TDOT Commissioner Gerald Nicely.

The federal grant program was established by Congress in the early 1990’s to fund activities designed to strengthen the cultural, aesthetic and environmental aspects of the nation’s transportation system.