<< Back 7/24/02 Macon gears up for annual Gemboree SMN For many years, gem and mineral dealers have traveled near and far to Franklin for the annual Macon County Gemboree. The event celebrates its 37th birthday in 2002 and is one of the longest-standing events of its kind. This year’s annual “Gemboree” will take place in the Macon County Community Building located off of U.S. 441 South July 24-28. The gemboree will open from 1-5 p.m. on Wednesday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and noon- 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $2 for adults and children 12 and under are free. There will be door prizes, dealer exhibits, jewelry-making, books and supplies. The gemboree is co-sponsored by the Gem & Mineral Society of Franklin, which helps to carefully selects each dealer and arranges for special displays. Twenty-four high-quality gem dealers will be on hand to exhibit and sell their products. The exhibits consist of fossils, minerals, cut gems, collectibles and natural uncut gems. The Franklin Gem & Mineral Society is made up of 120 members who volunteer their time May-October to keep the Franklin Gem & Mineral Museum functioning. The Museum is free and open to the public. It is located in downtown Franklin.