PP - Orn - General Jackson

4" Diameter 1/8" Thick PVC

The scene was Riverfront Park on the South shore of the Cumberland River in downtown Nashville. The date was July 2, 1985 and the time was early evening. The atmosphere had been filled with expectation and excitement as thousands of happy viewers looked upriver for a first glance at a new friend.

The friend? It is a sparkling new $12 million showboat named General Jackson. And it was making its way on a special voyage from her homeport at Opryland USA to the dock area in Music City. There was to be a christening festival for the new 300-foot vessel.

The crowd grew anxious...but soon settled down as it was rewarded with a close look at the beautiful exterior and fine interior decor (seen through the many windows) of the big riverboat. As lines were secured, the festivities got underway. Among the dignitaries on hand were Tennessee Governor Lamar Alexander, Nashville Mayor Richard Fulton, well known personages from local businesses and professions and many notable entertainers affiliated with Opryland.

Among the speakers was Edward Gaylord, president of the corporation which owns the General Jackson. It was then the pleasure of his wife Thelma to do the honors...break the bottle of champagne on the side of the boat. A ceremony of old...that officially initiated Opryland's newest attraction.

Permission to use the registered name General Jackson provided by Opryland USA, Inc.