The community is named for the surrounding cedar glades— a unique type of ecosystem that thrives in the thin or barren soil of south Wilson County.

[4] Gladeville is located just off Interstate 840 along Stewarts Ferry Pike, approximately 10 miles (16 km) southeast of Mt.

Gladeville was founded in 1852 on land of Benjamin Hooker Jr. and grew steadily for several years, although the outbreak of the Civil War slowed its growth.

[6] Notable Gladeville natives include Grand Ole Opry fiddler Sid Harkreader (1898–1988).

Gladeville was formerly a regional softball hub in the 1980s and 1990s with many large tournaments being held in the spring and summer months.