by Suzanne Walker
posted March 10, 2006
Approximately 60 members of the community met at the Sheraton Read House Hotel on Thursday evening to brainstorm and share ideas about the future of Moccasin Bend, since the land is now designated as part of the National Parks system.
For about an hour attendees participated in workshop facilitated breakout groups, in which they discussed three questions: 1) “Why is Moccasin Bend important to the American public?”; 2) “What should visitors to Moccasin Bend experience?”; 3) “What types of interpretation and facilities are needed to provide such experiences?”
Representatives from each group presented the most favorable answers. One group commented that the site should “read like a history book” since over 1,000 years of various communities and cultures have dwelled there. Many people emphasized the importance of recognizing and celebrating the Native American ties to the land.
Since the land serves as burial grounds for many Native Americans, several groups said they believed it was important to observe the area as “sacred grounds.” Some groups suggested that the park should also provide educational opportunities through reenactments, story telling, displays and replicated Indian villages.
Planner of the Denver Service Center Carla McConnell said she has been a part of National Park projects all over the country. She said the ideas and visions that the public has put forth will be sorted into a list of “feasible alternatives” that fit with National Park policies and guidelines. She noted that the Denver Service Center works hard with the regional park’s office to stay true to what the public deems to be the desired purpose for the park.
While the public will have additional opportunities to participate in the planning process, Ms. McConnell said representatives from federally recognized Indian tribes are also participating. She said earlier in the week 12 representatives of various tribes met with planners to provide insight on how Moccasin Bend should be used. She said the tribe representatives were given a tour of the area. “They had a lot of insight and emotional responses.”
Tribal Historic Preservation Officer of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Russell Townsend shared his thoughts about Moccasin Bend during the meeting. Mr. Townsend noted that Cherokee tribes, as well as other tribes, are deeply connected to Moccasin Bend.
“Moccasin Bend was historically a site for many communities, where people were born, played their games, grew their crops, prayed their prayers, lost their lives and where they were buried…. You are a part of that community now.” Mr. Townsend charged listeners to “step up and shoulder that responsibility. “It is no coincidence that Moccasin Bend is situated next to Chattanooga. People are thoughtful, progressive and respectful of other cultures.”
In 2003 Moccasin Bend National Archeological District was added to Chattanooga and Chickamauga National Park to be protected and developed for “interpretive” and educative purposes.
Since September the National Park Service has began assessing and planning for development of the site.
The next public planning meeting will likely be held at the end of the summer.
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