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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.

"The Trail Was A Circle"

WUTC | By raybassett

Published November 5, 2019 at 8:11 PM EST

Before the Trail of Tears removed the Cherokee from this area, there was the Brainerd Mission in what is now Chattanooga.

The mission was founded in 1816 by Christian missionaries - at the request of Cherokee leaders.

Today, only the Brainerd Mission Cemetery remains.

Naturalist Robert Sparks Walker told the story in his book “Torchlights to the Cherokees.”

And on Thursday night in Collegedale, the story will be told on stage in a concert production of “The Trail Was A Circle” - a play written and directed by Donna Daisy Pratt.

Dr. Jim Burns of Lee University composed the lyrics and music for the production, which starts at 7 PM in Founders Hall at Collegedale Commons.

The other day, Donna Daisy Pratt stopped by Scenic Roots...