Historical society cleared to use Coffee County courthouse square for July 4 event

The Coffee County Board of Commissioners granted permission March 5 for the Coffee County Historical Society to use the courthouse grounds in Manchester for a July 4 event marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Sandra McMullen Bennett, speaking for the Historical Society and the museum, described a preliminary plan that would include a mayoral proclamation, costumed participants to read the Declaration and live music from a local music shop. She said the museum and courthouse would remain open and that organizers were seeking sponsors to avoid county expense.

Commissioners discussed benches on the square, permitting channels (city parks and recs vs. county approval for courthouse land) and who would order or pay for benches; one commissioner offered to buy the first bench. The board asked Sandra to provide a more detailed plan by email or at a later meeting. A motion to allow use of the courthouse square was made, seconded and approved by voice vote.

Organizers said they were coordinating with Mayor Hunt and the VFW and expected the event to be scheduled later in the afternoon to avoid a conflict with the evening fireworks.