Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association Board Meeting Brings Industry Leaders to Jackson and Brooks Shaw’s Old Country Store (August 2024)
Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association Board Meeting Brings Industry Leaders to Jackson and Brooks Shaw’s Old Country Store
Jackson, Tennessee — (September 5, 2024) — Jackson welcomed the Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association’s board Aug. 19-20, 2024, bringing industry leaders to the Hub City for the first time. At their quarterly board meeting, professionals from across Tennessee discussed key industry trends and opportunities. The event highlighted Jackson’s growing influence in the state’s tourism sector and showcased the city’s rich heritage and vibrant growth.
Industry representatives first gathered for lunch at Brooks Shaw’s Old Country Store and toured the expanded services at the restaurant, gift shop and Casey Jones Village. They held sessions at the DoubleTree by Hilton and gathered for a PAC event at Hub City Brewing.
Sarah Beth Urban, president and CEO of the Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association, emphasized the importance of the visit, stating, “Part of the reason we’re here is to really see and appreciate the growth that’s happened in Jackson over the last few years.”
At the lunch and tour kicking off the two-day event, the Shaw family and staff of Brooks Shaw’s Old Country Store rolled out the red carpet for professionals from venues and organizations that are instrumental in driving Tennessee’s tourism and hospitality industry. Guests received a glimpse into the iconic Jackson location’s rich history and continued dedication to providing Southern hospitality to neighbors from next door and around the world. The tour included stops at the Old Country Store, Dixie Cafe, Casey Jones Museum and The Farm at Casey Jones Village. Attendees complimented the recent expansions and enhancements across the village, particularly the drive-thru and dining area at Dixie Cafe. The Old Country Store and Casey Jones Village is Jackson’s premier tourism attraction welcoming more than 650,000 Guests annually. The location is one of Tennessee’s top 15 most visited attractions.
Jill Thompson, of the Greater Knoxville Hospitality Association, noted, “The drive-thru expansion is amazing. It’s so open, and you can see the food easily. It’s perfect for families. I’m thrilled to see that all the changes here are family-oriented, while the food quality remains true to its roots. It’s wonderful to see Brooks carrying on his father’s [Clark Shaw’s] legacy.”
Later that evening, The Farm at Casey Jones Village hosted a preview night that was open to TnHTA board members, OCS staff members and families and friends. It resembled a scene from a holiday movie, as children and families entered The Farm’s spacious play area filled with blooms, climbing vines and larger-than-life games. Guests explored the acres, joining together for corn hole, giant tic-tac-toe, chess and Connect Four. Children and adults entered the twinkle-light-lined muscadine tunnel and tried their hand at panning for “gold” at the gem sluice. The air was filled with laughter, the smell of a campfire and the aroma of marshmallows roasting s’mores. Complimentary ice cream novelties and other treats were the crowning touch.
As the sun set, children continued to enjoy the activities, while parents snapped photos of their children sitting on antique tractors and a giant wooden rocking chair at the end of the long, scenic walkway.
Addy Grisham, of Medina, captured a special moment as her daughters, Mila and Bren, posed for a photo in the giant rocking chair. “This was so nice,” Grisham said. “We’ll definitely be back.”
Reflecting on the event, Old Country Store President Brooks Shaw shared, “We want to tell our story to more people, invite our Guests to stay longer in the Casey Jones Village, and give them more activities to enjoy while they’re here. We are exploring additions to The Farm that will expand offerings to families and enhance the renovated mini golf course that will open soon.”
Brooks Shaw’s Old Country Store is a multi-faceted destination. Located at 56 Casey Jones Lane in Jackson, Tennessee, it encompasses the restaurant, Miss Anne’s Ice Cream Shoppe, Miss Juanita’s Gift Shop and the Dixie Café Takeout or Dine-In. The establishment is gearing up to celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2025. For more information, individuals may visit instagram.com/caseyjonesvillage, facebook.com/oldcountrystore and caseyjones.com, or call 731-668-1223.
