Tennessee Statistical Abstract, 1988

Stepping into the pages of the Tennessee Statistical Abstract, 1988, one encounters a meticulously compiled portrait of the state, rendered not in prose but in a vast array of figures and tables. It presents a comprehensive overview of Tennessee's social, economic, and governmental landscape, offering a snapshot of life within its borders during that year. Each section unfolds as a distinct domain of inquiry, meticulously detailing various facets of the Volunteer State.

One might first delve into the demographic tapestry, where numbers reveal the ebb and flow of population, charting shifts in age, race, and marital status across counties. The abstract lays out the foundational elements of the state's populace, providing context for the subsequent data. You will find yourself navigating tables that dissect the labor force, showcasing employment rates, average weekly wages, and the distribution of insured employment across different sectors. The rhythm of commerce is captured through data on retail sales, manufacturing employment, and even the principal mineral-producing counties, painting a picture of economic activity and its geographic spread.

Further exploration leads to a detailed examination of public services and infrastructure. The pages illuminate the state of education, with figures on cumulative school enrollment and average daily student participation. Health and vital statistics offer insights into the well-being of residents, while data on energy consumption by sector and fuel type reveal the patterns of resource utilization. The abstract also meticulously documents governmental operations, including figures on elections and the organization of various state entities.

A significant portion is dedicated to law enforcement and the justice system, providing a deep dive into adult probation activity, including cases referred for presentence investigations, reports completed, and the total number of probationers under supervision. You will also encounter extensive data on the inmate population, broken down by sex, race, custody level, and age, alongside details of admissions and releases. The summary of community corrections activity and juvenile commitments further enriches this detailed view of public safety.

From housing units and building permits to the percentage of occupied housing units lacking telephones, the abstract provides granular details that together form a mosaic of daily life and infrastructure. It serves as a guide, directing the reader through a labyrinth of facts and figures, each table a window into a specific aspect of Tennessee's existence in 1988. The sheer volume of data, carefully organized and presented, underscores a commitment to informed decision-making and a thorough understanding of the state's condition.