ATHENS, Tenn. — It was bright and sunny on Sept. 24, 1985, when President Ronald Reagan stepped up to a podium on the front steps of the picturesque McMinn County Courthouse.

More than 10,000 people crowded Madison Street in front of the courthouse. People peered out from open second-story windows, and some children perched in Bradford pear trees on street corners.

Local electrician Lowell Cantrell remembers that day well, and along with other Athens residents he wants a memorial so everyone can know about the event.

“It has been nearly 25 years ago, and many kids don’t even know he visited here,” Mr. Cantrell said. “All we see are a few pictures scattered on walls around town.”

Discussions about a memorial began with “the early crew” at the downtown Hardee’s. The idea caught on, and now the group is moving to place a memorial in a proposed park.

A Nashville design firm is developing ideas centered around a 6-foot granite obelisk with a plaque. Once a design is chosen, Mr. Cantrell said a fundraising campaign will begin.

He has gone to the City Council with the idea and received support.

Mr. Cantrell, who owns Cantrell Electric, said he remembers the event like it was yesterday.

“I was standing on the corner of Madison and White streets along with about 10,000 other people,” he said. “This man was the 40th president, and whether you are a Democrat or Republican, it is an event that needs to be remembered.”

The president spoke about lowering taxes, and he praised the city.

“I think I’ve just fallen in love with Tennessee. Well, I’m not surprised; Andrew Jackson started here … and he was a president who cared about the average American. He knew you weren’t so average,” President Reagan told the crowd that day. “And this great town, Athens, the friendly city, you have a history of standing up to special interests. I guess you just can’t stop Athens and McMinn County from backing justice and fairness.”

Chuck Redfern was the county trustee at the time, and his office was the “White House away from Washington,” he said.

“It was a great day,” Mr. Redfern said. Bands were playing, officials were on the stand with the president, and he was scheduled to do introductions.

“I needed a drink of water and got to the water fountain, and a (security) dog pointed me out.”

He had to explain to the security agent that he was to introduce the president and did not have a weapon.

Jim Pitt was on the Chamber of Commerce planning committee for the visit.

“We had a saddle made for him and engraved the phrase ‘Saddle up with tax reform’ on it,” Mr. Pitt said. “I understand that saddle was one of his favorite gifts and is in the Reagan museum.”

He said putting up a memorial is a great idea and hopes it will bring back memories to those who attended the event.

Comments