Scenic Roots

"Scenic Roots" offers conversations that matter in the heart of Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley.From the mountains to the river, our conversations are rooted deep within every corner of our community - reflecting who we are, who we were and who we can become.We engage with the news that affects our community, behind and beyond the headlines. We build bridges that span from creators and innovators to storytellers and the outdoors. We focus on our challenges as many communities in one - as we celebrate what inspires us. We resonate with countless voices - in words and spaces, sounds and songs.We are "Scenic Roots."Ray Bassett hosts and produces "Scenic Roots" at WUTC.

“Hike Through History” In Chattanooga’s Pleasant Garden Cemetery

WUTC | By Ray Bassett

Published April 3, 2024 at 6:33 PM EDT

Pleasant Garden Cemetery - at 306 Rowe Rd. in Chattanooga - in August 2023.

Pleasant Garden Cemetery here in Chattanooga is one of the oldest historically Black cemeteries in Tennessee.

Opening in 1891, it is the final resting place for leading members of Chattanooga’s African-American community after Reconstruction and during Jim Crow segregation - as well as tragic figures, including Ed Johnson and at least one of the Scottsboro Boys.

Fifty years ago, the cemetery was abandoned - but in recent years, volunteers have taken on tasks to restore the site.

On Saturday, Chattanooga Parks and Outdoors - and the African American Cemetery Preservation Fund - will host a “Hike Through History” at Pleasant Garden, starting at 10 AM.

Donivan Brown is part of the cemetery’s restoration team - and executive director of the Horton-Keller Center for Traumatic Healing.