“Shining Bright Over Cookeville: 75 Years of the Cream City Sign” exhibit opening reception this Saturday
The Cream City Ice Cream shop sign has shone brightly over Cookeville for 75 years. What is the Cream City Sign? Ice Cream lovers know.
The Ice Cream shop, like its sign, is a calling card and a landmark for the city. In 2023, the shop celebrated the 10th anniversary of its new owners, Chris and Karen Savage. In 2013, the duo bought Cream City and the delicious ice cream and ambiance never missed a beat. If anything, it has only improved.
2025 marks a different sort of milestone, and the City of Cookeville Leisure Services (city) is celebrating with the opening of the “Shining Bright Over Cookeville: 75 Years of the Cream City Sign” exhibit, a presentation focusing on the historical significance (related to a local landmark and its associated cultural context) of the Cream City Ice Cream sign in downtown Cookeville.
“This exhibit will be open to the public from April 5 to May 24, 2025, at the Cookeville History Museum,” according to a release by the city.
“Shining Bright Over Cookeville: 75 Years of the Cream City Sign” will be located at the Cookeville History Museum, 40 E Broad St, Cookeville.
The exhibit will feature:
- Displays detailing the historical development and community presence of the Cream City sign
- Information regarding the evolution of ice cream production and consumption
- Information about the maintenance of neon signs
Visitors will have the opportunity to experience something tangible. The exhibit will include original containers from the Cream City factory.
“To establish a broader historical context, the exhibit will incorporate information regarding significant world events that occurred 75 years ago. An interactive art activity, designed for children, will be available within the exhibit space,” according to the release.
An opening reception is scheduled for Saturday, April 5, from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Cookeville History Museum. The reception will provide early access for attendees and get free ice cream.
You read that right. FREE Ice Cream.
“We are incredibly excited to share the story of the Cream City sign with our community! This exhibit brings together a wonderful collection of historical elements and offers a unique glimpse into a cherished part of Cookeville’s past,” said Beth Thompson, Museum Manager.
The exhibit offers a look into Cookeville’s history, blending local stories with the broader context of the era, according to Pamela Philpot, Exhibit Specialist.
“We’ve curated a compelling experience that explores Cream City, our community, and history as a whole, and we believe visitors will find it both informative and fun,” said Philpot.
Admission to the exhibit is free.
For more information, visit www.creamcitycookeville.com or contact Beth Thompson at 931-520-5570.
Photo courtesy of the City of Cookeville.
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