Roane County marked a day of significant historical celebration as local leaders, state officials, and community members gathered to commemorate two major achievements for the region: the official dedication of Tennessee’s newest state park and a nationwide reading of the Declaration of Independence.

Roane County Executive Wade Creswell shared the highlights of the landmark day, which began at Fort Southwest Point with the official designation of the site as Tennessee’s 66th State Park.

Joined by Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) Commissioner David Salyers, Kingston Mayor Tim Neal, State Senator Ken Yager, and a large crowd of supporters, officials celebrated the long-awaited realization of the historic site’s state park status. Creswell extended special recognition to Mayor Neal and Senator Yager for their persistent vision in bringing the project to fruition.

Following the dedication ceremony, community members and leaders gathered at the historic Old Roane County Courthouse to participate in a synchronized nationwide event. Joining thousands of communities across the United States, attendees read aloud the Declaration of Independence to honor the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding principles.

Creswell described the day’s events as an extraordinary display of local pride, noting that many residents expressed deep gratitude for the area’s rich heritage and strong sense of community.