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"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.

Reclaiming The African-American Past In Walker County, GA

WUTC | By Ray Bassett

Published August 13, 2021 at 7:22 AM EDT

E.D. Ward and wife, Marion. Ward was the first African American principal in Walker County of an integrated school.

This summer, Walker County, Georgia took a step forward in recognizing part of its own past.

County commissioners unanimously approved the use of the Wardlaw Building in LaFayette as the home of a new African-American Museum and Heritage Center.

Once built, the museum and heritage center - along with a memorial park - will share the history of Walker County’s Black residents beyond enslavement.

Beverly Foster - a local historian whose family has been in the area since the 1800’s - chairs the task force for these projects, which will now require fundraising from the community.

Robert Wardlaw is executive director of the Walker County Development Authority - his family donated the building to the county decades ago.

Andy Arnold is the Mayor of LaFayette - and Elizabeth Wells is a consultant with the city.