Coca-Cola is giving Mississippians a refreshing way to celebrate 200 years of statehood. Hardy P. Graham Sr., Chairman and Ray Hedgpeth, General Sales Manager of the Meridian Coca-Cola Bottling Company, joined Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant to unveil the limited-edition commemorative eight-ounce glass Coca-Cola bottle that recognizes the 20th U.S. state’s bicentennial.

Bryant was also presented a Meridian-designed 200th anniversary shirt, which features the iconic Meridian mule-drawn wagon, first used for delivery of Coca-Cola in the early 1900s.

The state of Mississippi and Coca-Cola have strong historical ties. Meridian Coca-Cola Bottling Company was the first franchise bottler in the state. Vicksburg’s Joseph Bidenharn was the first to bottle Coca-Cola.

Today, five Coca-Cola bottling partners operate in and serve the businesses and residents of Mississippi. Locally-owned Meridian Coca-Cola Bottling Company has been a part of the Meridian area since 1902, serving all or parts of 13 counties in Mississippi and Alabama.

Mississippi area residents can visit participating local retailers to purchase six-packs of the commemorative bottles, featuring the official Mississippi bicentennial logo, while supplies last.