June 1, 2014 marks the 218th anniversary of Tennessee’s admission as the 16th state in the year 1796.

In conjunction with the Historic Homes of Knoxville, Marble Springs State Historic Site will commemorate this occasion with a weekend of Living History. On Saturday, May 24 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., walk amongst Living History interpreters in 18th Century clothing portraying life on the frontier. Militia drills along with demonstrations of 18th Century life, including tomahawk throwing demonstrations, will take place.

The celebration will continue into Sunday, May 25 from 12-5 p.m. with Living History encampments and various interpreters. See the actors of the PBS production, The Mysterious Lost State of Franklin, as they conduct militia drills and a skirmish. Children’s activities include falling into a militia drill and playing with period toys. Militia camps will be open between activities. Blacksmithing, weaving, and open hearth cooking will be demonstrated all weekend. A full schedule of events will be available at www.marblesprings.net. Food will be available for purchase. Details are subject to change.

This event is free and open to the public. Donations are appreciated.

Programming assistance for this event is provided by the Arts & Heritage Fund and Knox County. Marble Springs is funded under an agreement with the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, Tennessee Historical Commission, and supplemented by additional funds raised by the Governor John Sevier Memorial Association.

All activities take place at the Marble Springs State Historic Site: 1220 West Governor John Sevier Highway, Knoxville, TN 37920.

For details about the Historic Homes of Knoxville and their participation in Statehood Day, please check hhknoxville.org for contact information.

Information found at 865-573-5508, email:  marblesprings@gmail.com, or website: www.marblesprings.net .