Tennessee will be celebrating 225 years of statehood under the theme “Untold Tennessee,” starting on its founding date – June 1. The very first celebrations for Tennessee Statehood Day will take place that day at Nashville’s Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, Knoxville’s Blount Mansion, and a live music performance in historic downtown Jonesborough. Following that, Governor Bill Lee will embark on a 95-county tour, visiting each grand division throughout June.
At Nashville’s Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, the Tennessee State Museum will unveil a new, self-guided tour and online exhibition of 100 artifacts representing art, community, innovation, service, and transformation. The museum will maintain this exhibit until May 31 of next year. Knoxville’s Blount Mansion will commemorate the 55 men who pushed for Tennessee’s statehood with a parade from the nearby James White’s Fort to the mansion, historical reenactments, and remarks from Lee and other state leaders. Historic sites surrounding the museum continue to celebrate with a months-long series of special events. In historic downtown Jonesborough, Country Hall of Fame members The Oak Ridge Boys will perform after a speech from Lee at the Washington County Courthouse.
On Tuesday, Lee published a video for the statehood celebration titled “Home,” starring Dolly Parton. The video featured Parton singing a rendition of her 1973 classic, “My Tennessee Mountain Home,” as scenes from across the state played.
“Dolly is a Tennessee treasure, and I’m thankful she’s joined us to commemorate 225 years of statehood,” said Lee in a press release. “I invite Tennesseans to celebrate at events throughout the year from Mountain City to Memphis and share the stories of the people, places, and moments that have shaped Tennessee.”
Parton emphasized in the press release that she’s very proud of this state.
“I am Tennessee proud,” stated Parton. “I’m proud of our wonderful state, proud to be born and raised a Tennessee girl and I’m proud to be a part of all that we represent.”
The state is accepting submissions of “an untold story” from Tennesseans: pastimes, places, traditions, persons, or folklores that showcase attributes of the state. Upcoming events for the celebration will also be published on the official website for the statehood celebration.
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Corinne Murdock is a reporter at The Tennessee Star and the Star News Network. Follow her latest on Twitter or email tips to [email protected].
