A Tennessee Waltz Raises Funds for the Tennessee State Museum and Museums Affected by Flooding

As happens each year, a line of black cars and SUVs snaked their way up the drive to the Tennessee State Capitol building. Alighting from the cars, elegant ladies and dapper gentlemen ascended the stairs for the annual A Tennessee Waltz. Inside, co-chairs Dawn and Tre Hargett — wisely stationed by the table cards — greeted each guest as they came through. The annual event raises funds for the Tennessee State Museum, which works to close educational gaps and helps students and adults alike learn more about the history of Tennessee.

As guests entered the cocktail reception, servers stood at attention with glasses of Champagne and white wine resting on silver trays. The cocktail hour is always lively, as friends and colleagues mix and bidders keep a sharp eye on the silent auction. Guests also enjoyed snacks from an abundant spread of cheese, charcuterie, fruit and other delectables, fending off hunger before eventually heading back downstairs for dinner.

Once everyone found their seats, Tennessee State Museum executive director Ashley Howell took the podium and introduced singer-songwriter Lee Greenwood, the evening’s special guest, who later sang his No. 1 hit “God Bless the U.S.A.” Ashley announced that the devastation in East Tennessee was far worse than anticipated and that a portion of the evening’s proceeds would help museums in areas affected by Hurricane Helene. 

Gov. Bill Lee then took the microphone to deliver a heartfelt and important message. Having been on the ground in East Tennessee all day, he and the first lady wore their “work clothes” instead of a traditional tuxedo and ball gown. “The Tennessee State Museum is the chronicler of the state — it chronicles our history,” the governor said. “What is happening in East Tennessee right now is historic.” He went on to describe the devastation he and his wife, Maria, had witnessed that day — and emphasized the importance of helping out our neighbors in East Tennessee.