Interesting Facts About the State of Tennessee
Nicknamed the Volunteer State, Tennessee joined the United States as the 16th state in 1796. This Southern state is home to versatile landscapes from the Great Smoky Mountains to the blues of Memphis and the musical streets of Nashville. Here are some fascinating facts about the state of Tennessee.
Tennessee Fun Facts
- Tennessee has three official state songs – “My Homeland, Tennessee”, “When It’s Iris Time in Tennessee”, and “Rocky Top.”
- The Great Smoky Mountains National Park located in eastern Tennessee is the most visited national park in the U.S.
- Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry is the longest continuously running radio show in the world, having broadcast every week since 1925.
- The Jack Daniel’s distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee sells over 11 million cases of its famous whiskey globally each year.
- The bluesy heart and soul music of Memphis made it one of the birthplaces of rock ‘n roll.
Geographic Facts
- Tennessee borders eight states: Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Missouri.
- With a width of 109 miles, Tennessee has the widest state border with any single state (Kentucky).
- Tennessee has over 3,800 documented caves, more than any other state in the country.
FAQ Tennessee Facts
What are the state symbols of Tennessee?
Some Tennessee state symbols include the tulip poplar tree, the mockingbird, the raccoon, the marble and milk quartz gems, and the square dance.
What are Tennessee’s biggest cities?
The largest cities in Tennessee are Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Clarksville.
What are some famous Tennesseans?
Famous people from Tennessee include Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, Justin Timberlake, Morgan Freeman, and Oprah Winfrey.
Does Tennessee have seaports?
Yes, Tennessee has two main seaports – the Port of Memphis and the Port of Nashville.
What are Tennessee’s main industries?
Major industries in Tennessee include agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, music production, and transportation.