In the heart of Hendersonville, Tennessee, stands a landmark that has etched itself into the fabric of the city’s history – Twitty City, the former estate of country music icon Conway Twitty. However, this iconic property faces an uncertain fate as Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) moves forward with ambitious development plans that could potentially lead to the demolition of Conway Twitty’s mansion.
Conway Twitty, renowned for hits like “Hello Darlin’,” was a country music legend with an impressive 41 Billboard No. 1 singles on both country and pop charts. Twitty City, as it was affectionately known, emerged in 1981, serving as the personal haven for the singer and his four children. The expansive development included not only Twitty’s residence but also a museum, a gift shop, and an auditorium, all dedicated to preserving the legacy of the influential artist. Following Twitty’s death in 1993, the Christian-based Trinity Broadcasting Network acquired the property, introducing a new chapter in Twitty City’s history.
Fast forward to the present, and the fate of Twitty’s mansion hangs in the balance. Trinity Broadcasting Network, during a recent Hendersonville Planning Commission meeting, unveiled their development plans for the property. Greg Tidwell, representing the project’s architects, explained that TBN seeks rezoning for the development of assisted living and independent living facilities on excess property behind the Huckabee Theater. Additionally, TBN aims to expand its damaged production studio, a consequence of the devastating tornadoes that struck on December 9.
The potential demolition of Conway Twitty’s mansion has raised concerns among commission leaders who are dedicated to preserving the tradition and history of Hendersonville. Frank Amedia, president of the real estate division for TBN, expressed the network’s efforts to explore alternatives for preserving the mansion. However, these attempts have proven challenging, as the mansion is situated in the heart of the complex and is deemed dysfunctional.
Amedia acknowledged the sentimental value attached to the mansion, recognizing the affection Hendersonville residents hold for this iconic structure. He emphasized the unforeseen challenges brought about by the tornado, which not only damaged existing structures but also displaced over 100 staff members.
As the community grapples with the potential loss of Twitty’s mansion, the city stands at a crossroads, torn between progress and preservation. The looming decision underscores the delicate balance between honoring the legacy of a country music legend and addressing the practical needs of a community recovering from a natural disaster. Twitty City, regardless of its future, will forever remain a landmark, reminding Hendersonville of its rich history and the indelible mark left by Conway Twitty.
