A new House bill proposes giving that designation to “The Andy Griffith Show.”
“The Andy Griffith Show” has been on the air since its premiere in 1960.
Much of the inspiration for the fictional town of Mayberry came from Griffith’s real-life hometown, Mount Airy.
Leaders at the museum dedicated to Griffith in Mount Airy say the recognition is an honor.
“Fans will love this,” said Andy Griffith Museum Director of Collections and Exhibitions Abigail Linville.
“It is a wonderful tribute to the show and also to North Carolina. Andy paid homage to North Carolina, and like I said, he put bits and pieces of home into the show, and that’s what makes it so endearing. So it’s a wonderful tribute, and we are very happy and grateful for this,” Linville said.
In the bill legislators claim that “the positive character values and awareness of North Carolina” make the show “must-see TV for anyone who loves our state.”
Mickey and Ginny Barbeau who visited Mount Airy from their home in Maine agreed.
“It’s the laughter, the laughter and they got laughter out without making anything nasty,” Mickey Barbeau said.
The bill was referred to the state and local government committee Monday.
