Gov. Bill Lee Launches Year-Long Celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary with Focus on Tennessee’s Agricultural Legacy
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee kicked off a statewide celebration marking the 250th anniversary of American independence by unveiling a commemorative poster and announcing plans for a year-long tour across all 95 counties. The initiative, part of the national America 250 observance, began July 1 with visits to historic farms across the state’s three Grand Divisions and the ceremonial signing of the new Farmland Preservation Act.
The poster, titled “Tennessee: The Original Frontier,” was created by Knoxville artist Justin Helton, who previously designed the statehood celebration poster for Tennessee’s 225th anniversary. Free prints of the poster will be available at America 250 events throughout the year.
“This week marks the beginning of a special time for our country and state as we approach the 250th anniversary of American independence,” said Gov. Lee. “One of Tennessee’s greatest contributions to America’s success is the strength of our agricultural industry, and I’m proud to honor our rich heritage and commitment to ensuring family farms are preserved for future generations.”
The governor’s Farmland Preservation Tour includes visits to farms in Greene, Williamson, and Tipton counties. At each stop, he is signing the newly passed Farmland Preservation Act, legislation designed to protect Tennessee’s agricultural lands by establishing permanent conservation easements and a grant fund for farmers who voluntarily preserve their land. The measure passed with bipartisan support earlier this year.
“Agriculture is the foundation upon which our nation was built,” said Tennessee Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher. “It’s fitting that we visit Tennessee farms to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, and the initiative to preserve our state’s agricultural land for generations to come.”
Tennessee Farm Bureau President Eric Mayberry called the act “a culmination of a multi-year effort” to protect the state’s leading industry. “We are confident this legislation will help preserve agriculture and forestland in Tennessee, and we look forward to this event culminating our multi-year effort alongside Gov. Lee to protect Tennessee’s number one industry and our nation’s most important industry for generations to come.”
The celebration is being coordinated by the Tennessee Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial, which is offering project and community support grants to help organizations highlight Tennessee’s role in American history. Events will be announced throughout the year, and Tennesseans are encouraged to submit ideas for historic site visits and share their personal stories at www.TN250.com.
The Tennessee State Museum is also supporting the effort through its Voices and Volunteers newsletter, which will provide updates on events and opportunities to participate in the America 250 celebration.
