Bicentennial Commission Unveils 200-Year Celebration Branding and Event Schedule
The Jackson Madison County Bicentennial Commission, along with City of Jackson Mayor Scott Conger and Madison County Mayor Jimmy Harris, has unveiled the anniversary logo and announced key dates for the birthday bash, time capsule, parade and concert.
“Jackson has a rich history and the bicentennial offers us the opportunity to honor our roots while committing ourselves to make a positive impact for future generations,” said Mayor Scott Conger, City of Jackson.
The columns at the top of the logo represent the many bridges over the Forked Deer River in Madison County. The river has long been a lifeline for the county from the earliest settlers arriving on flat bottomed boats to more recently the Middle Fork Bottoms recreational project that will feature biking, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, fishing and wildlife viewing. The bridge also represents the abundant history the county has as a transportation hub connecting people from all over the United States via boat, train, car or plane. Finally, the bridge serves as a representation of connection and the “connect here” tagline that has represented the city and county throughout recent years.
“The bicentennial is much more than a history lesson,” said Mayor Jimmy Harris, Madison County. “Through stories of the past, the Bicentennial Commission will inspire and encourage others to play an integral part of shaping the future.”
The commission plans to seize the opportunity to celebrate the historical past and build our community into a desirable tourism destination by capitalizing on its history, resources and citizens.
“For our children and grandchildren, the public events and educational programming will instill a love of this community and its place in history for the remainder of their lives and for generations to come,” said Elaine Christian, Jackson Madison County Bicentennial Commission Chair.
Planning is underway for multiple events during the year-long celebration, including a kick-off event in August 2021, Celebration of Madison’s County formation in November 2021, 200 Voice Choir performance, monthly themed educational programs, partnerships with local organizations, as well as a community homecoming celebration. The culmination of the year-long celebration will occur in August 2022 with a dedication of public art project, the creation of a time capsule to be opened in 50 years and a musical celebration with fireworks.
About the Jackson Madison County Bicentennial Celebration
The City of Jackson and Madison County will both celebrate bicentennial anniversaries respectively in 2022 and 2021. This will be a once-in-a-lifetime commemoration of 200 years of history, culture and community.
Madison County was established by the Tennessee Legislature on November 7, 1821, and was named after founding father and fourth President of the United States, James Madison.
The City of Jackson was formerly known as Alexandria but was renamed in honor of Tennessee native and seventh President of the United States Andrew Jackson on August 17, 2022.
City Mayor Scott Conger and County Mayor Jimmy Harris asked local community volunteer Elaine Christian to serve as Commision Chair. Other Bicentennial Organizing Commission members include Anita Kay Archer, Ted Austin, Leigh Anne Bentley, Gayle Gilbert, Loni Harris, Dennis Henderson, Judy Renshaw, and Marda Wallace.
