Publishers Note: WGNS Radio celebrated its 75th year. WGNS first came on the air in Murfreesboro, TN on the night of December 31, 1946 and our first full day of being on the air was on January 1, 1947. 
Imagine all the news stories and history that has been heard by listeners over that time frame. I added WGNS to the list of Amazing Tennessee Facts. Congratulations WGNS Radio 100.5 FM, 1450 AM for the difference you have made in the lives of Rutherford County residents.
by | May 28, 2022
*Originally published online at Iges.us.
We love Tennessee, we started here. Since our show is back on track and the people are traveling, we though it would fun to share some interesting facts about our state. Did you know that the word “Tennessee” summons a kaleidoscope of imagery and rich history ranging from iconic music to the rugged yet beautiful outdoors. Its treasures don’t go unnoticed – in 2019 this humble midwestern state outpaced the nation and shattered records with $23 billion spent on travel spending! And while it has many highly-publicized claims to fame, Tennessee also boasts quite a few hidden gems that you might not be aware of…
It’s the birthplace of Mountain Dew
The original formula for this Appalachian favorite was first invented back in the 1940s. The creators, beverage bottlers Barney and Ally Hartman, first marketed their sugary drink in three cities – two of which were Knoxville and Johnson City.
The drink’s popularity didn’t stay local for long thanks to its popularity which led to the eventual acquirement by Pepsi-Cola in 1964, introducing Mountain Dew to the rest of the world.
It’s tied with the title as the most bordered state
A total of eight states surrounds Tennessee: Kentucky and Virginia in the North, North Carolina in the East, Arkansas and Missouri to the West and, to the South are Georgia, Mississippi, and Alabama. The only other state to touch that many other places is the neighboring state of Missouri.
True Tennessee whiskey can’t be made anywhere else in the world
Tennessee whiskey is more than just a label. It’s a very distinct whiskey style made with the iconic “Lincoln County Process” that uses a charcoal filter 
and distinct instructions regarding details like aging and timing. The famed Jack Daniels is responsible for most of the state’s whiskey exports, but other brands carry the official “Tennessee whiskey” label as well.
RELATED: WGNS – Celebrating 75 Years of Broadcast History in Rutherford County, TN in 2022
It’s home to the world’s oldest radio show
The Grand Ole Opry isn’t just a staple for country fans, it’s also a landmark in the music world. Nestled in Nashville today, the Opry is the longest-running radio show in the world for any genre.
As one of its city’s top tourist attractions, a staggering 6,000 songs are performed at venue each year.
To read… the rest of the story visit Iges.us
