United Way taps into old for new event

The rivaling relationship between all things old and all things new could possibly be traced back to the beginning of time.

We live in a society that has popularized expressions like “out with the old and in with the new” and “you can’t teach and old dog new tricks.”

However, when one local organization was in the planning process for its newest charity event, it thought no better location to play host to the affair than one of the oldest scenes in town.

The United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties’ inaugural Red, White and Blues is set for Saturday, July 10 from 7-10 p.m. at the historic Marymont Mansion.

“When searching for a location for our inaugural Red, White, and Blues, we were looking for a setting that was unique, beautiful, and reflective of the historical Middle Tennessee area. Marymont Mansion is just that, and we are very excited to be able to host our signature event at this property,” said Meagan Flippin, United Way director of marketing and special events.

Constructed from 1861 to 1867, Marymont Mansion sits on a 640-acre farm on Rucker Lane. Hiram Jenkins, Jr. built the mansion with handmade brick that was fired in a kiln on site.

It has been said that those who both worked and lived on the former cotton plantation eventually joined the Confederacy and fought in the Civil War.

According to local history, only three or four Greek Revival homes were built in Rutherford County during the 19th Century.

Of those, only the Marymont House remains.

The mansion is also believed to be one of the last large Classical Revival homes erected in Middle Tennessee prior to the Civil War.

The load-bearing masonry structure showcases the millwork of renowned Maury County carpenter Nathan Vaught.

Vaught’s original fireplace mantles have been preserved inside the house. Marymont is listed on the National Register of Historical Places.

Currently, ParkTrust Development, who received the 2007 State Preservation Award for its efforts in preserving Marymont, is continuing to develop the land around the mansion for Marymont Springs.

This community is projected to include 1,000 homes with some residences paying homage to Marymont’s timeless architecture.

Red, White and Blues will consist of live blues music, crab racing, beverages and a low country boil dinner.

An event shirt will also be provided. The occasion will provide “a relaxing evening filled with food, fun and music that is reminiscent of the southern coastal areas.”

All proceeds will go to the United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties.

“The United Way and its 44 partner agencies and programs work to advance the common good in Rutherford and Cannon counties by focusing on the essentials for building a strong community: education, income, health and rebuilding lives,” Flippin added.

Since 1956, the United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties has worked to improve the community by supporting 45 partner agencies that focus on four key areas – education, health, income and rebuilding lives.

In 2008 the United Way provided services to almost 93,000 people in Rutherford and Cannon counties through partner agencies and its own initiatives.

The United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties is located at 615 Memorial Blvd., Suite 200.

For more information, call 615-893-7303 or visit www.uwrutherford.org.

Sarah Fryar can be contacted at [email protected].