Tennessee’s Statehood
Celebrating 225 Years in 2021
Two hundred twenty-five years ago, fifty-five men made history when they put quill to parchment and boldly declared that Tennessee was a state. It was an audacious plan: brazenly electing a governor, two senators and one at-large congressman, and simply showing up at the United States capital—then in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania before the creation of Washington, DC—and essentially saying, “Hi—we’re you’re sixteenth state!” But that’s exactly what William Blount and his compatriots did. The “Tennessee Plan,” as it came to be known, eventually worked; after dithering for a few weeks about whether to accept this upstart state into the family, both houses of congress granted their consent, and Tennessee was admitted to the union on June 1, 1796—known thereafter as “Statehood Day” in Tennessee. You might say Tennessee broke the mold!
Become Part of the Story of Tennessee
The Historic House Museums of Knoxville invite you to join in the celebration. On Tuesday, June 1, 2021, Blount Mansion and nearby James White’s Fort - the birthplace of Knoxville, which existed as the federal territorial capital prior to statehood - will partner with the City of Knoxville to host a once-in-a-lifetime birthday party celebrating Tennessee’s 225th anniversary. The event will include a short parade from the fort to the mansion, led by historical reenactors and school children wearing period clothing. Participants will enjoy birthday cake and hear short celebratory remarks from Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon, Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs and other leaders, after which folks may pick up a quill and sign their name to paper on the desk on which the dream of Tennessee became a reality 225 year ago. The big day will be preceded by a months-long series of special events at historic sites throughout Knox County, including open houses at several of the Historic House Museums of Knoxville on Saturday, May 30th.
TN STATEHOOD EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS
Afternoon Sightseeing Cruises
Cruise the waters of the Tennessee River in air-conditioned or heated comfort and luxury with our…
Angela Floyd Dance Company Auditions
Clinics for 2024-2025 AFDC Date: Saturday, May 11th 11:00am-12pm - 5-7 year old's session (This will…
Art Source 2024
Every day, Knox County Schools art teachers devote their time and energy to cultivating creativity…
Bike Zoo Saturday Ride
3-hour ride of 50+ miles at a fast pace of 18/20 mph. Ride is weather dependent so call ahead to…
Blind Boys of Alabama
In the seven decades since the Blind Boys of Alabama first began singing together, America has…
Bob Watt Youth Fishing Rodeo
On Saturday, May 11, kids ages 12 and under are invited to create their first fish stories that can…
Brunch at Babalu
Babalu invites you to Brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 10am-3pm featuring $3.00 Mimosas!
Brunch at Babalu
Babalu invites you to Brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 10am-3pm featuring $3.00 Mimosas!
Brunch at Babalu
Babalu invites you to Brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 10am-3pm featuring $3.00 Mimosas!
Brunch Buffet Cruise
Take a seat at your private table and enjoy the company of friends and family. Relax during a one…
Coming Into View
The McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture presents the temporary exhibition, Coming Into…
Daytime & Evening Sightseeing Cruises Aboard the Star of Knoxville Riverboat
View the river from our covered patio style upper deck with refreshments available. These run…
Dinner Cruise Aboard the Star of Knoxville Riverboat
Planning a special date night, entertaining friends and family, or just "because"?! Join us along…
Explore Knox Bike Ride
Join us Saturdays at 11:00 for our weekly ride through different Knoxville neighborhoods as we…
Hair of the Dog Yoga
Spend your Saturday mornings waking up with Kandace Stephenson and the crew at Printshop Beer Co…