Chester County

Chester County is an administrative division in western Tennessee spanning about 286 square miles of land. The area features rolling hills, farmland, and natural landscapes, with Henderson serving as its county seat.

The county was established in 1879 by the Tennessee General Assembly, carved from parts of Hardeman, Henderson, McNairy, and Madison counties. It remains the last county to be formally organized in the state.

The Barbeque Festival each September draws residents together for cooking competitions, live music, and community gatherings in Henderson. Food traditions and local celebrations shape how people in the area come together.

The Chester County School District operates six educational facilities, including Chester County High School and several elementary schools serving the area. Visitors can navigate through the county using local roads to explore these institutions and public spaces.

Freed-Hardeman University in Henderson educates more than 2,000 students drawn from across the region. This institution plays a central role in offering higher education opportunities to young people throughout the area.

Location: Tennessee

Inception: 1882

Capital city: Henderson

Shares border with: Henderson County, Hardin County, McNairy County, Hardeman County, Madison County

Website: http://chestercountytn.org

GPS coordinates: 35.43000,-88.61000

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:40