Neelys Bend was originally inhabited by the Shawnee nation. While they were in direct conflict with the Cherokee nation, their land in and around Nashville and Madison as we know it today included the bend in the Cumberland River now known as Neelys Bend.

The Neely name came from the family of Mary Neely who was taken captive by Shawnees and enslaved. You can read the history as told in The Tennessee Magazine by Bill Carey. The Neely Family settled on the Bend and became its namesake in 1852.

Today, Neelys Bend has become known as one of Nashville's two most scenic river bends along the Cumberland River. It's abundance of trees provides much needed air and oxygen quality throughout Nashville's urban core. Neighbors have passionately protected these areas to ensure the health of not only Madison residents but all of Nashville's future generations. The land is home to white-tailed deer, oppossum, cougars, American bald eagles, red foxes, raccoons, and the odor-invasive skunks who make Neelys Bend one of their favorite breeding grounds in Middle Tennessee.

A few of the late 1800/early 1900s farm houses can still be viewed from the main road. Hundreds of mid-century modern homes on half-acre plus parcels populate the majority of land. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, more modern neighborhoods developed on vacant acreage that was sold to developers. Annually, thousands of hikers, walkers, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts enjoy Peeler Park. In 2020 and beyond, Neelys Bend has become the home to countless Folk and Bluegrass artists and bands and continues to honor the musical heritage of the county that calls Music City home.

In Fall 2025, Neely's Bend Elementary took a bold new step to become a robust education home in Metro Nashville Public Schools where creativity could thrive. The Neely's Bend K-8 World Cultures & International Arts Magnet School was reborn as a centerpiece of the Neely's Bend community. Find out more information on the school's PTO here and visit the school's website here.