From Farmland to Freedom: Tennessee’s 250th Celebration Begins with Agriculture in Focus

As the United States begins commemorating 250 years of independence, Tennessee is launching its own statewide celebration honoring the state’s pivotal role in America’s story. Governor Bill Lee announced a year-long series of events under the banner “Tennessee: The Original Frontier,” kicking off on July 1 with a 95-county tour spotlighting Tennessee’s deep agricultural roots.

The tour begins with ceremonial visits to farms in Greene, Williamson, and Tipton counties, where Gov. Lee will formally sign the Farmland Preservation Act—landmark legislation designed to protect Tennessee’s farming legacy for generations to come.

“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 Farmland Preservation Act establishes a permanent conservation easement program and creates a grant fund to support farmers who voluntarily protect their farmland. The law passed with broad bipartisan support and represents a multi-year effort championed by both lawmakers and agriculture leaders.

“Agriculture is the foundation upon which our nation was built,” said Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher, D.V.M. “It’s fitting that we visit Tennessee farms to celebrate America’s 250th birthday.”

Tennessee Farm Bureau President Eric Mayberry added, “What better way to kick off the celebration of our nation turning 250 years old than by signing the Farmland Preservation Act in all three grand divisions of the Volunteer State. We are confident this legislation will help preserve agriculture and forestland in Tennessee—and our nation’s most important industry—for generations to come.”

As part of the celebration, Gov. Lee also unveiled a special commemorative poster titled “Tennessee: The Original Frontier,” created by Knoxville artist Justin Helton, whose work was previously featured in Tennessee’s 225th statehood celebration. Prints of the poster will be distributed at America 250 events across the state.

The year-long celebration will be coordinated through the Tennessee Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial, which is facilitating a range of community-focused activities. The commission is also offering grant opportunities to support organizations and local projects that highlight Tennessee’s unique contributions to the nation—from the Revolutionary era to the present day.

Tennesseans are encouraged to visit www.TN250.com to share their stories, recommend historic site visits, and sign up for the Voices and Volunteers newsletter for updates on upcoming events.

From its role as a launching point for westward expansion to its legacy of patriotism, Tennessee is celebrating 250 years of American history by honoring the people, places, and values that make the Volunteer State a cornerstone of the nation’s past—and its future.