Jun 3, 2026 - Politics

Stretch of Clarksville Pike to be renamed Sen. Thelma Harper Highway

Nate Rau

Sen. Thelma Harper introduces Hillary Clinton during a campaign event in 2008. — Sen. Thelma Harper introduces Hillary Clinton during a campaign event in Nashville in 2008. Photo: Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images

Thelma Harper, one of Nashville's most legendary political leaders, will have a vital North Nashville road renamed in her honor at a ceremony this weekend.

Why it matters: Harper, who died in 2021, was a trailblazing politician who served in the state Senate and on the Metro Council.

She was the first Black woman elected to Tennessee's Senate. When she retired in 2018, Harper was the longest-serving female senator in state history.

Driving the news: A stretch of Clarksville Pike, running from Buena Vista Pike to Dry Creek Fork Road, will be renamed Sen. Thelma Harper Highway.

The highway cuts through the heart of Harper's former district.

Flashback: Harper was known for her colorful hats, her grit and her immense influence on Nashville politics.

Young politicians sought her endorsement and established leaders relied on her for advice. She delivered a speech in support of Vice President Al Gore at the 2000 Democratic National Convention when he was the party's nominee for president.
Harper was a fierce proponent of closing the Bordeaux landfill, even getting arrested in the early 1990s during a protest as an act of civil disobedience.

What she's saying: "Sen. Harper was a legend who brought joy, hope and real change to North Nashville," state Sen. Charlane Oliver tells Axios.

"It is my absolute honor to dedicate a portion of Clarksville Highway in her name — a road she traveled every day on the way to the Tennessee legislature to fight for Black Nashville residents."

If you go: The dedication ceremony will take place 10am Saturday at the Bordeaux Library.

Add Axios on Google

Stretch of Clarksville Pike to be renamed Sen. Thelma Harper Highway

More Nashville stories