As published in the Murfreesboro Post, February 12, 2011
When the Tennessee Legislature agreed on Oct. 17, 1811 to establish Rutherford County’s seat near where Lytle and Town creeks meet, few dreamed it would become the metropolis it has become.
Yet change it did, becoming known as Murfreesborough the next month on Nov. 19 and, by the time it was chartered in early January of the following year, the name had been shortened to Murfreesboro.
Now, 200 years later, a celebration is being planned that will highlight the different themes, including important historical and cultural events, that have made Murfreesboro a one of the largest cities in the State of Tennessee.
Not so many months ago, Murfreesboro Mayor Tommy Bragg gathered several city and MTSU people together and announced his vision for a year-long celebration honoring the end of the city’s second century and the beginning of its third
Then, as now, Bragg made it clear he wants to get as many organizations involved as possible, more importantly those that are local history-oriented.
Activities for the year are not yet settled but, beginning Oct. 17 with an enhanced and improved Harvest Days and celebration of the county seat’s founding at Cannonsburgh, themes for each succeeding month may include the state legislation, which was based here for a time; education, multicultural influences, medicine with highlights on Middle Tennessee Medical Center (MTMC), the military, the Faith Community – First Presbyterian Church is celebrating its Bi-Centennial as well, arts and architecture, the impact of rivers and roads in the community’s development, Music, Newcomers, business and commerce and “The Next 100”.
The steering committee cordially invites all local organizations, groups, civic clubs, school organizations, churches to contribute to these celebratory events.
Like the mayor said, come one and come all to celebrate Murfreesboro’s 200th.
“I’m excited and proud our city is getting ready to celebrate its upcoming 200th Birthday!,” Bragg said. “Murfreesboro’s Bicentennial is an excellent time to reflect on the aspirations and accomplishments of previous generations.
“Our city enjoys an outstanding location, long-serving family traditions, friendly atmosphere and vibrant economy” he continued. “Murfreesboro has been an integral part of regional growth, commerce and educational opportunity.”
The mayor said he’s confident the many groups and organizations in Murfreesboro will make the upcoming Bicentennial celebration successful.
“Our business environment is among the best in the region, and our medical and educational community today reflects the perseverance and commitment of visionary providers through the ages,” Bragg said. “A year-long ‘Boro Bicentennial Celebration of activities and events across our county would be fitting. I ask our residents and business and community leaders to embrace this upcoming year as special.
“Make plans, events and activities commemorating the history and all the important contributions and achievement of every community segment through thepast 200 years,” he added. “For ideas, our convention and visitor’s staff, parks and recreation department and heritage communities will be asked to lead the way.
“I’ve been part of preliminary meetings and I’m convinced this can be a terrific celebration,” he continued. “Let’s join together to celebrate a significant past while preparing for a brilliant future.”