Looking Forward to Mule Day with Hey Y'all

Maury County Visitor's Center

When we travel in our region, we turn to Chambers of Commerce and local visitor’s centers for information. In Columbia, we love to stop in at Experience Maury- the Maury County Visitor’s Bureau at 302 West 7th St. They have maps, pamphlets, and all the materials you need to explore everything in Maury County. The staff is friendly and always excited to share their love for Columbia with all who stop by. 

Don’t think you have to find everything on your own when travelling- rely on the professionals who know all the sweet spots! They directed us to some great antique and thrift shops that we can’t wait to visit. They showed us so much, we already know we’ll have to split our exploring of Columbia between multiple visits. Such a great problem to have! 

Stop in and tell them Hey Y’all said HEY. 

Don’t just visit Maury County… EXPERIENCE MAURY COUNTY!

Polk Presidential Hall- Mule History

While we visited Maury County, we were really anticipating Mule Day. We decided to stop by the Polk Presidential Hall at the James K. Polk Home & Museum, where they usually display a rotating historical exhibit. Currently, they are featuring "Driven by Mules: Columbia's Journey to the Mule Capital."

If you’re curious like we were, we’ll share a little bit of the history with you here:

We actually have George Washington and his fascination with mules in Spain to thank for the popularity of the animal in the United States. In the South, mules became popular for their strength, resilience, and affordability. Mules proved invaluable to the process of planting and harvesting crops. They aided families with transportation and carting crops to markets. 

In the 1800s, Columbia, TN earned the nickname “The Mule Capital” as buyers from all over the US came to the city to purchase respectable mules. In 1934, Thomas Marion Brown suggested a yearly celebration of the industry to the Columbia Chamber of Commerce, and Mule Day was born. When there was a decline in the industry as farm equipment became more efficient post-WWII, the yearly celebration lulled. In 1974, the Maury County Bridle Saddle Club revived the celebration, and it has been going strong ever since! 

Today, it’s one of the most beloved celebrations in Tennessee. So, here’s to Ears throughout the Years and all those beautiful mules.

Thank you to the Polk Presidential Hall for their extensive display with vital information about the rich history of mules. Hope to see many of you in Columbia for Mule Day! We feel extra excited about the event after learning so much about the history and significance of it!

EVENT STOP: Mule Day 2025

We are SO EXCITED for the festivities of Mule Day! This is always one of our favorite events and it gets even better each year. We recommend you stop by the Maury County Visitor's Center and the Polk Presidential Hall to get ready for the weekend, and we will see you there!

For now, we can reminisce on some of our favorite Mule Day memories from years gone by:

BONUS STOP: The Mason Jar Restaurant in Centerville, TN

At 107 S Public Square in downtown Centerville, TN, you will find The Mason Jar Restaurant, open 7 days a week, 11a-9p. One of Centerville’s most famous residents was the great Minnie Pearl; however, you don’t have to be famous to enjoy the wonderful downhome hospitality at The Mason Jar. Owner Kate and her daughter Katie will treat you like family. 

Previously, The Mason Jar was located on Hwy 100, but 18 months ago they relocated to the square. The Centerville square is truly the place to be, with lots of emerging businesses and views of the historic courthouse and the Minnie Pearl statue. 

This unassuming building hides a secret: the BEST burgers in Hickman County! Each order is prepared with precision and care, which is evident when you lay eyes on the burgers. 

As you peruse the menu at The Mason Jar, be sure to ask for suggestions so they can direct you to the perfect burger for your taste. If you’re not in the mood for a burger, check out their delicious salads. We promise, there’s something for everyone here! DanO enjoyed the “Kate’s Burger” and stole several of my onion rings. I had the hot chicken sandwich, which was delicious, and enjoyed stealing DanO’s fries! 

Go visit The Mason Jar Restaurant and tell them Hey Y’all sent you!

Remember: don't just travel Tennessee... EXPERIENCE TN!!