For us? You shouldn’t have. We think living in Knoxville is the greatest gift of all, but it’s actually been on the receiving end of quite a few delightful donations. From sculptures to park benches, check out these gifts given to the city.
World’s largest Rubik’s Cube | This one won’t fit in a stocking. The largest Rubik’s Cube in the world (at 10 ft tall + 1,200 pounds) is currently on display at the Knoxville Convention Center — it was gifted to us by the Hungarian government after the 1982 World’s Fair.
“Cycle of Life: Within the Power of Dreams and the Wonder of Infinity” | This glass-and-steel exhibition by Richard Jolley is one of the largest of its kind in the world — and it was specifically commissioned for the Knoxville Museum of Art. The artwork was a gift from Ann and Steve Bailey, and the museum’s Great Hall was later named in their honor.
Community Heritage Benches | Did you know that you can purchase a bench for the city? Knoxville’s Community Heritage Program allows residents to buy and dedicate city benches in honor of a loved one, event, or group. You can find dedicated benches in local parks and greenways like West Hills Park + James White Greenway.
Fountain City Park and Lake | Back in 2021, the Lions Club donated this historic park and lake to the city, making it Knoxville’s 93rd park. Explore more of our city’s many parks and green spaces.
The Christmas Stump | While not a gift to the city itself, we couldn’t go without mentioning the German crèche — aka the “Christmas stump” — at The Museum of East Tennessee History. The family crèche was passed down by generations until it was eventually donated to the museum in 2014. While the crèche is no longer on display, you can see it in this 2023 WATE video.
Do you know of another major gift donated to our city? Let us know.
