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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.

History Uncovered At Chattanooga’s Pleasant Garden Cemetery

WUTC | By Ray Bassett
Published May 20, 2025 at 5:38 PM EDT
At Pleasant Garden Cemetery in Chattanooga.
Pleasant Garden Cemetery / Facebook
At Pleasant Garden Cemetery in Chattanooga.

(Aired Weds 5/14/25)

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

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.

In recent years, volunteers have worked on restoring the site.

Antwon Baldwin, a student in UTC’s Department of Communication and an intern here at WUTC, paid a visit.
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Ray Bassett
Ray is the host and producer of Scenic Roots, Mondays - Thursdays at 3 PM on WUTC.
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