Smyrna, TN – This Saturday, the historic Sam Davis Home in Smyrna will be abuzz with activity for the 13th annual chili cook-off, a beloved event orchestrated by State Representative Mike Sparks. The festivities kick off early with a special prayer event from 7:30 to 9 am, setting the tone for a day filled with community, camaraderie, and historical exploration.
Car enthusiasts will have a treat with a cruise-in happening from 2 pm to 6 pm, organized in collaboration with the Middle Tennessee Hotrodder's club. This offers attendees, both young and old, the opportunity to admire classic rides, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and revel in an afternoon brimming with horsepower and history.
Live toe-tapping bluegrass music will entertain from 10 to 11 am, setting the stage for a series of enlightening discussions on Rutherford County history. Guest speakers will cover diverse topics, including the Sam Davis Home itself, the central location for this engaging event. A particularly intriguing presentation will delve into the life of Sampson W. Keeble, the first African American elected to the Tennessee Legislature. Born into slavery in Rutherford County in 1833, Keeble later became a prominent figure, serving in the Tennessee House of Representatives as a Republican from 1873 to 1875.
An intriguing discussion on the forgotten community of Old Jefferson is slated for later in the day. Once a thriving community, Old Jefferson was erased from the map when plans for the J. Percy Priest Reservoir took shape. Discover the untold story of Old Jefferson and its disappearance during this thought-provoking session.
The speakers' sessions, running from 11 am to 5 pm, will touch upon various facets of local history, such as the significant role of Sewart Air Force Base during World War II. At 4 pm, John DeBerry, Special Advisor to Governor Bill Lee, will address the audience, adding a contemporary perspective to the historical discourse.
Culminating the day's events is the highly anticipated chili cook-off, scheduled between 5 and 7 pm. Those wishing to showcase their culinary skills have until Wednesday evening to enter the competition; interested participants can call 615-525-3198 to secure their spot.
The Sam Davis Home in Smyrna invites everyone to this enriching day, where the flavors of chili blend seamlessly with the richness of local history. Come for the chili, stay for the history, and make memories at this vibrant community event.
Source: State Rep. Mike Sparks of Smyrna, who can be reached at 615-525-3198.
