Memorials, Recognition - 250th Celebration of the Revolutionary War Veterans buried in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and surrounding areas -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Becky Massey

Ceremonially honors Revolutionary War veterans buried in and around the Great Smoky Mountains National Park as part of Tennessee’s 250th anniversary celebrations.

Signed by Governor.

#memorials #recognition

Purpose and Intent

SJR 996 is a memorial resolution commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States (the nation’s 250th birthday) and recognizing the contributions of Revolutionary War veterans.

The resolution specifically honors veterans interred within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) and nearby areas in East Tennessee.

It acknowledges the service and sacrifices of the veterans who helped establish and defend American freedoms and democracy, linking their legacy to the history of Tennessee.

Key Provisions

Formal declaration by the Tennessee Senate (and House concurrence) that, during the 250th anniversary year, Tennessee honors the Revolutionary War veterans associated with the GSMNP region.

Recognition extends to veterans buried inside GSMNP boundaries (e.g., Henry Bohanan, William Hamby) and those buried near the park (e.g., Fredrick Emert, Spencer Clark, William Cocke) as well as the spouses who supported the war effort (e.g., Mary Blount and Martha Dandridge Washington).

The resolution emphasizes patriotism, democracy, individual freedom, human rights, and their impact on Tennessee’s history.

The final clause permits the presentation of an appropriately prepared copy of the resolution, with a specific clause omitted from the copy after presentation. This is a ceremonial formatting detail intended for official display.

Who/What is Affected

Primarily a ceremonial and symbolic action recognizing Revolutionary War veterans connected to the GSMNP region.

Benefits include formal acknowledgment by state government, potential educational or commemorative use in ceremonies, and a lasting legislative record of Tennessee’s regard for these veterans.

The bill notes historical land changes related to the park’s establishment, acknowledging that some veteran settlers had land taken for park creation.

Procedural and Timeline Details

Jurisdiction: Tennessee, 114th General Assembly.

Sponsor: Senator Massey, with Co-sponsor Senator Becky Massey.

Status Progression:

Introduced and first considered in March 2026.
Passed the Senate on April 2, 2026 (Consent Calendar) and transmitted to the House.
House concurrence followed, and the bill advanced through standard readings and signatures.
Enrolled and ready for signatures by early April 2026; signed by the Senate Speaker and the House Speaker.
Governor action: Signed into law on April 16, 2026.

Effective date: The resolution becomes part of the official record upon signing; as a concurrent memorial resolution, it is primarily symbolic and does not impose new statutory requirements or appropriations.

Potential Impact

Cultural and historical significance: Elevates awareness of Revolutionary War veterans connected to East Tennessee and GSMNP.

Educational and commemorative use: Provides a formal basis for future ceremonies, plaques, or educational materials highlighting veterans’ contributions and local history.

Historical acknowledgement: Media, museums, and local communities may reference the resolution when interpreting the park’s history and the settlement of the region.

Overall, SJR 996 is a ceremonial commemorative measure honoring Revolutionary War veterans buried in or near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and surrounding areas, tied to the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations.

Bill