List of Tennessee state symbols

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== List of Tennessee State Symbols ==

The state of Tennessee has a variety of official symbols as designated by the Tennessee General Assembly. These symbols represent the cultural heritage and natural treasures of the state.

State Flag

The Flag of Tennessee consists of three stars on a blue circle, representing the three Grand Divisions of the state: East Tennessee, Middle Tennessee, and West Tennessee. The flag was designed by Colonel LeRoy Reeves of the Tennessee National Guard and was officially adopted in 1905.

State Seal

The Seal of Tennessee features the Roman numerals XVI, representing Tennessee as the 16th state to join the Union. The seal also includes images of a plow, a sheaf of wheat, and a cotton plant, symbolizing the state's agricultural heritage.

State Bird

The Northern Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos) was designated the state bird in 1933. Known for its ability to mimic the songs of other birds, the mockingbird is a common sight throughout Tennessee.

State Flower

The Iris was designated the state flower in 1933. While the law does not specify a particular color, the purple iris is commonly associated with the state.

State Tree

The Tulip Poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) was designated the state tree in 1947. This tree is known for its distinctive tulip-shaped flowers and is prevalent throughout the state.

State Insect

Tennessee has two state insects: the Firefly (Photinus pyralis) and the Ladybug (Coccinellidae). The firefly was designated in 1975, and the ladybug was added in 1976.

State Gem

The Tennessee River Pearl was designated the state gem in 1979. These pearls are found in the freshwater mussels of the Tennessee River.

State Wildflower

The Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) was designated the state wildflower in 1973. This flower is native to the southeastern United States and is known for its intricate and unique appearance.

State Fish

The Channel Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) was designated the state commercial fish in 1988, and the Smallmouth Bass (Micropterus dolomieu) was designated the state sport fish in 2005.

State Reptile

The Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina) was designated the state reptile in 1995. This turtle is known for its domed shell and long lifespan.

State Amphibian

The Tennessee Cave Salamander (Gyrinophilus palleucus) was designated the state amphibian in 1995. This species is found in the cave systems of Tennessee.

State Horse

The Tennessee Walking Horse was designated the state horse in 2000. This breed is known for its unique running walk and smooth gaits.

State Songs

Tennessee has several state songs, including:

• "My Homeland, Tennessee" (1925)
• "When It's Iris Time in Tennessee" (1935)
• "My Tennessee" (1955)
• "Tennessee Waltz" (1965)
• "Rocky Top" (1982)
• "Tennessee" (1992)
• "The Pride of Tennessee" (1996)
• "Smoky Mountain Rain" (2010)

Related Pages

• Tennessee
• Flag of Tennessee
• Seal of Tennessee
• Northern Mockingbird
• Iris (plant)
• Tulip Poplar
• Firefly
• Ladybug
• Tennessee River
• Passionflower
• Channel Catfish
• Smallmouth Bass
• Eastern Box Turtle
• Tennessee Cave Salamander
• Tennessee Walking Horse