Governor Lee Visits Sparta on America's 250-Year Tour

Celebrating the 250th anniversary of this great nation’s Declaration of Independence, Governor Bill Lee has been making trips across the entire state the past year. April 29 was White County’s lucky day as he stopped by, giving both a wonderful speech and opportunities to speak with the people. And even though it started to rain and shuffled spectators into Oldham Theater, it was a day to remember for any White Countian who got to come meet the man leading Tennessee.

Oldham Theater was packed. With well over 50 visitors just in the main room, not to mention those waiting and listening out in the foyer, Governor Lee certainly received a warm welcome. Chamber of Commerce’s Brent Young introduced the Governor, who expressed how exciting the event was for him as well.

“It’s exactly what you hope, when you walk into a town like this,” said Governor Lee. “Welcoming, for one thing, but also a collection of people that represent Sparta and White County.”

His speech stressed the importance of small, local communities like this, and how communities like Sparta are part of the reason why so many Americans move to Tennessee. Governor Lee also amusingly added how refreshing it is to simply talk to and be among Tennesseans without having to worry about reelection.

“We live in the greatest nation in the world,” said Governor Lee, before adding, “And I happen to believe we live in the greatest state too.”

After his speech, Governor Lee took the time to take photos with everybody who came to visit. The Expositor got one ourselves, naturally, but the line of folks who wanted to meet the man personally nearly stretched all the way to Oldham’s exit.

Governor Lee also made the rounds around Liberty Square and the local businesses there, getting to see firsthand the rich community Sparta has been fostering and the businesses that are thriving downtown.

Thanks to the Chamber of Commerce for helping organize Governor Lee’s visit, and thanks to Governor Lee for visiting this small town we all know and love called Sparta.