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.

“Records Of Removal”: Paths Of Paper To The Trail Of Tears

WUTC | By Ray Bassett

Published November 19, 2024 at 11:13 PM EST

An 1818 letter from Catharine Brown, a Cherokee student at Brainerd Mission in Chattanooga - part of “Records of Removal” on display at the Chattanooga Public Library.

The story of the Trail of Tears runs through what is today Chattanooga.

In the late 1830’s, Cherokee and Muscogee families were rounded up in this area, held at Ross’ Landing and other internment camps nearby to prepare for their forced removal from the Southeast and their march to the West by the U.S. Government.

Part of that story is told in a recently opened exhibit at the downtown Chattanooga Public Library.

“Records of Removal: Ration Books from the Trail of Tears” displays log books of weekly food and supply rations given to Indigenous families while held in this area.

Jessica Sedgwick is the Head Librarian of Local History and Genealogy at the Library.