The Gallatin Chamber announced the 2023 Gallatin Christmas Parade Grand Marshal: Mr. Kenneth Calvin Thomson Jr.

Mr. Thomson was was born right in the midst of the holiday season in 1940 - on NYE! He grew up in Gallatin’s historic district where he still resides today. He graduated Gallatin High School in 1959 and then went on to teach with Sumner County Schools, Tennessee for 10 years - at Portland High School, Westmoreland High School and 6th grade at Union. In 1971, he organized the first history club at PHS which led to the launch of Highland Rim Historical Society.

Since 1975, he’s been a contributor to local publications across the county. In 1978, at the age of 38, he was named the Sumner County Historian.

For all of his adult life - and even most of his teen years - Mr. Thomson has dedicated his life to making sure that Sumner County’s rich history is preserved, known, and shared. He has been involved in the formation of many preservation organizations and initiatives and has served on the boards/committees of many of the region’s historical assets including:

•Sumner County Historical Society, President

•Bledsoe Lick Historical Association, Founding Member

•East Robertson County Historical Society, Former President

•Gallatin Historic District Zoning Board, Chairman •Sumner County Museum, Board Member •Historic Rose Mont, Board Member •Historic Trousdale Place, Board Member •Friends of the Bridal House, Board Member

•Southern KY Genealogical Society, Former President

• Warren County Historical Society, Former President

•Charles Duncan chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, Former President

• Edmonson County Historical Society, Former President

•Riverview, Former Board Member

•Hobson House-Bowling Green, KY, Former Member

•Chairman of the very first Cross Plains Historical Zoning Board

•Life Family Member of the Andrew Jackson Foundation •Tennessee Historical Society, Member

•Natchez Garden Club, Former Member

•“Friends of Jefferson College”(Museum) in Washington, Mississippi, Former Member

He’s an asset in helping tell the community’s story and has been instrumental in preserving many historical sites and helping share the stories for future generations to enjoy.

What an honor to have Mr. Kenneth Thomson right here in Gallatin, Tennessee! The city is proud to announce him as the 2023 Gallatin Christmas Parade Grand Marshal!

Note: Photos provided by the late Richard Suter