This month, we are sharing conversations with you about the long road to Moccasin Bend as it is today - and its future. Here in Chattanooga, Forever Moccasin Bend is the fundraising campaign to build parking and new visitor amenities at the Gateway Site of the Moccasin Bend National Archeological District.
Former Congressman Zach Wamp led the effort in Washington to create the District.
He worked with elected officials, Native American leaders and local citizens for eight years until 2003 - when Congress passed, and President George W. Bush signed, the legislation that protected the Bend with National Park status and placed it under Federal ownership.
I spoke with Former Congressman Wamp - and with Tricia Mims, executive director of National Park Partners.