Shacklett Family Celebrates 115 Years in Downtown Murfreesboro

In 2026, the Shacklett family marks an extraordinary milestone: 115 years of business presence in downtown Murfreesboro. Since their beginning as Shacklett, Cason, and Rogers Dry Goods Company in 1911, the Shackletts have become a cherished part of the city’s history, serving generations of residents and contributing to the region’s vibrant culture. Granddaddy “Arthur” Shacklett maintained his clothing business on the Square from 1911-sometime in 1928. In 1914, it was known as EH Tatum and Shacklett. In 1922, when moving to #18 Public Square, it became Shacklett, Staley, and Sanders.

Throughout the decades and multiple the generations, the Shacklett family has adapted to changing times while maintaining a steadfast dedication to customer service and community involvement. Their iconic story has mirrored the evolution of Murfreesboro, surviving wars, economic shifts, and technological advancements—all while remaining a local favorite. On a July day in 1935, Richard Claude Shacklett walked into Leo Ferrell’s Photography shop and asked if there was anything he could do. Mr. Ferrell offered Shacklett a job processing roll film. Sometime between 1936 and 1937, at the age of 16, Shacklett became a local photographer creating and documenting some of the most memorable images of Rutherford County of the 1930’s and 1940’s. By 1938, he was an independent businessman operating out of the old James K. Polk Hotel building. Richard (“Dick”) Claude Shacklett, a man of many talents, was known to his legions of friends as a man for all seasons. Notable is the official seal of Rutherford County affixed on every Rutherford County vehicle, the County Parking Garage, and the new Judicial Building. His deep love for Rutherford County flows into Mr. Shacklett’s original design of the County seal. His spirit for recording the history of our area for future generations was the gift he left.

During his lifetime and profession through the 1980’s, Dick Shacklett captured thousands of one-of-a-kind images. More than a professional photographer, his sensitivity and passion extended way beyond his brief 73 years into another generation, inspiring countless families and friends. His zeal for recording and documenting the history of future lives has long outlived him. After taking over the business in 1989, Bill Shacklett and Gloria Chirsty of Shacklett’s Photography moved from 121 East Main to105 South Church Street. The brother and sister team partnered to continue the photography business which included maintaining one of the most extensive private photographic collections in Middle Tennessee. Through efforts by many family members, including Gloria’s late husband, Thom Chirsty, some of the collection has been digitized and shared with the public through a variety of exhibitions and educational displays to sustain and preserve local history. Visitors are welcomed to stop by and experience historic downtown images in the store. These are available to purchase for home and office. One recently discovered 1911 photograph of their grandfather’s store on the corner of North Maple and the Public Square is on display. Visible in this treasured image is a very busy Square with buggies, hitched horses with no automobiles. To celebrate this remarkable 115 anniversary, the Shacklett family invites the community to join them for a series of commemorative events throughout the year. The first one will be a month-long celebration now through February, “We Love Downtown Murfreesboro!” From historical exhibits to special promotions, these festivities will honor the family’s legacy and the countless memories shared within their doors. Murfreesboro residents continue to recognize the Shacklett name as synonymous with quality, integrity, and hospitality. As the family looks forward to the future, their commitment to Downtown Murfreesboro remains as strong as ever, ensuring the Shacklett tradition endures for generations to come. Highlight your LOVE for Downtown by visiting all the unique businesses, boutiques, restaurants, sweet shops, and novelty stores now through February.