250 Signature Event
First Families Reunion
Tennessee's Founding Families Gather at Rocky Mount
Revolutionary Patriots & Frontier Pioneers: Come Home to Where Tennessee Began
September 11-13, 2026
Where the South Moved West
In 1790, Governor William Blount arrived at Rocky Mount to establish the Southwest Territory—the first federal territorial government south of the Ohio River. While the Northwest Territory was already organized in Ohio, Rocky Mount became the seat of government for all lands ceded by North Carolina, proving that American democratic governance could extend across the southern frontier.
As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, Rocky Mount invites all descendants of Revolutionary patriots and early frontier families to gather at the place where southern expansion formally began under federal authority. Whether your ancestors fought at Yorktown or settled the Cumberland, signed the Declaration or governed the Territory, you're part of the story that unfolded here.
You're Invited
If Your Family:
Served in the American Revolution (SAR/DAR members welcome!)
Lived in the Southwest Territory before Tennessee statehood (June 1, 1796)
Settled the American frontier from the Appalachians westward before 1800
Served in territorial government, militia, or early state positions
Established homesteads, businesses, or churches in early settlements
Descends from any of America's founding families who pushed westward
If you're eligible for SAR, DAR, or similar patriotic societies, you're part of our First Families story.
Choose Your Path
Find the volunteer opportunity that matches your interests and schedule. You can start in one area and explore others as you discover your passion.
Living History
Experience 1791 life with period interpreters, demonstrations, and authentic frontier activities
Genealogy Resources
Professional genealogists and SAR/DAR representatives to help trace your Revolutionary and frontier roots
Stories & Panels
Historians share the dramatic connection between Revolutionary ideals and westward expansion
Family Connections
Meet fellow descendants of patriots and pioneers who built America beyond the mountains
Hosted by the Cobb, Massingale & Defriece Families
William Cobb built Rocky Mount around 1770 and welcomed Governor Blount to establish territorial headquarters here in 1790. His descendants, along with the Massingale and Defriece families—among the area's earliest settlers—serve as Honored Host Families for this gathering.
As the families who literally opened their home to create Tennessee, they now invite all First Families to gather at the place where it all began.
Upcoming events
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Host Family Evening
Friday, September 11
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Private reception for Cobb, Massingale, and Defriece family descendants. Special recognition ceremony and intimate gathering at Rocky Mount.
By invitation (Cobb/Massingale/Defriece descendants)
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Main Gathering
Saturday, September 12
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Full day of living history demonstrations, genealogy workshops, historical presentations, period music, traditional crafts, family photo sessions, and catered frontier-style meal.
Open to all registered First Families
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Frontier Worship Service
Sunday, September 13
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Optional 1791-style worship service in the historic tradition of early Tennessee congregations. Open to all.
Free and open to the public
Join SAR, DAR, and patriotic society members from across America for this historic gathering where Revolutionary ideals met frontier reality. Whether your ancestors wore Continental blue or cleared wilderness homesteads, this is your homecoming.