GRAY, Tenn. (WJHL) — On Tuesday, the Tennessee Douglas Henry State Museum Commission convened for its quarterly meeting at the Boones Creek Historical Trust Museum and Opry, located in the region.

The commission discussed state Capital Maintenance and Improvement Grants, one of which the Boones Creek Historical Trust received on Tuesday.

The Tennessee State Museum announced that $5 million, allocated by the Tennessee General Assembly in the 2025-2026 Appropriations Act, is designated to provide grants specifically for museums. These grants are intended for institutions with a 501(c)(3) nonprofit status or those affiliated with government entities, meant for improvements and maintenance of capital.

State Senator Bo Watson, who chairs the commission, emphasized the importance of capturing stories from various parts of the state to understand Tennessee’s rich history.

“This is essentially how we portray Tennessee’s story, right?” Watson shared with News Channel 11. “Every story in Tennessee is rooted in a unique community, and through its grant program, the museum endeavors to assist local communities in narrating their historical tales. These narratives contribute to the collective Tennessee story. Here, you witness the story of Boones Creek.”

Watson added that he thinks it’s important to protect artifacts and stories from the past that help tell the heritage of the community.

Ashley Howell, Executive Director of the Tennessee State Museum, remarked, “The Tennessee Capital Improvement Grants continue to bolster the infrastructure of entities safeguarding our state and local heritage. We are privileged to aid these institutions in serving their communities and visitors better by enhancing collection care and accessibility over these past three years. We draw inspiration from the dedication of their staff and volunteers, made possible by the steadfast support of the State of Tennessee for preserving Tennessee’s history.”

In addition to the Boones Creek Historical Trust, other regional trusts and government entities managing historical sites or museums were beneficiaries of the state grant funding:

• Broylesville Archives & Museum (Limestone): $35,310
• Butler & Watauga Valley Heritage Association, Inc. (Johnson Co.): $40,617
• Dickson-Williams Historical Association, Inc. (Greeneville): $53,200
• Earnest Family Fort House, Inc. (Greene Co.): $87,550
• George L Carter Railroad Museum Inc. (Johnson City): $50,000
• Hands On Discovery Center (Gray): $47,356
• Price Public Community Center and Swift Museum (Hawkins Co.): $95,000
• TN Dept. of Environment & Conservation; Sycamore Shoals State (Carter Co.): $50,000
• Tipton-Haynes Historical Association, Inc. (Johnson City): $75,000
• Town of Bulls Gap (Hawkins Co.): $65,000
• Town of Jonesborough (Washington Co.): $99,655