Nashville, TN – May 31, 2025 – Tennessee celebrated its 229th Statehood Day with vibrant, family-oriented events held at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park in Nashville. The annual event brought together history enthusiasts, families, and tourists for a day of cultural appreciation and educational experiences, celebrating the state’s legacy and community spirit.
A Historic Milestone Comes to Life
The centerpiece of this year’s celebration was the ceremonial unveiling of Tennessee’s original constitutions—dating back to 1796, 1835, and 1870. These founding documents, usually kept under high-security preservation, were placed on rare public display inside the Tennessee State Library & Archives. Guarded by the Tennessee Highway Patrol Honor Guard, the documents drew significant crowds eager to witness this symbolic tribute to the state’s democratic foundations.
Secretary of State Tre Hargett addressed attendees during the opening ceremony, emphasizing the historical weight of the documents and the importance of civic awareness. He noted that this was the only day each year the public could view all three constitutions at once, underscoring the uniqueness of the occasion.
Engaging Activities for All Ages
Throughout the day, the Tennessee State Library & Archives offered a series of behind-the-scenes tours that included glimpses into their state-of-the-art robotic document retrieval system and preservation equipment like the archival blast freezer. These tours provided insight into the care taken to protect and study Tennessee’s archival treasures.
Children were delighted with face painting stations, hands-on crafts, and an educational scavenger hunt that led them through Tennessee’s legislative past. Living history interpreters added authenticity to the event by portraying figures from different eras in Tennessee’s story.
Attendees also had the opportunity to view key historical texts including the Cumberland Compact and King George III’s 1763 Proclamation, enriching the educational scope of the celebration.
State Museum Offers Cultural Deep Dive
Just across the park, the Tennessee State Museum welcomed visitors with specialized tours and interactive exhibits. At 10:30 a.m. and again at 2:00 p.m., docents led highlight tours emphasizing Tennessee’s journey from frontier territory to statehood. Guests were also treated to a reading of “Oh Tennessee, My Tennessee,” the state poem, by current Miss Tennessee, Carley Vogel.
In a nod to community celebration, a cupcake giveaway was hosted at noon in the Grand Hall of the museum, bringing together families for a light-hearted moment of shared pride and enjoyment.
Miss Vogel also hosted a Storytime event in the Children’s Gallery, reading stories that reflected the values and heritage of the Volunteer State. Her presence energized young visitors and provided an engaging connection to Tennessee’s living traditions.
Discovering the Park’s Historical Monuments
Guided tours through the 19-acre Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park were another major attraction. Park rangers led groups along the Pathway of History and the Rivers of Tennessee Fountains, explaining the significance of each monument and how the park’s layout mirrors the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Designed as a living memorial, the park offers a permanent outdoor tribute to Tennessee’s rich natural and cultural history.
Passport to Tennessee History
To encourage full participation, organizers introduced a “Passport to Tennessee History” initiative. Visitors who collected stamps from the Tennessee State Library & Archives, the State Museum, and the Bicentennial Park Visitor Center were eligible for a 10% discount at all gift shops on-site. This program added an interactive twist to the day’s events, making historical exploration fun and rewarding.
Looking Ahead to 230 Years
As the 229th Statehood Day concluded, it left behind memories of educational engagement, cultural pride, and community connection. With Tennessee approaching its 230th anniversary in 2026, organizers hinted at even bigger plans to mark the milestone, promising more opportunities for Tennesseans to connect with their heritage.
This year’s celebration demonstrated how blending entertainment with education can deepen appreciation for a state’s history and foster a sense of shared identity. Events like this play a crucial role in preserving traditions while inspiring the next generation of citizens.
