Mark Thrash: A Living Memorial

  • Monday, April 22, 2024
On Saturday, May 4, at 2 p.m., Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park will provide a 45-minute, ranger-led presentation discussing Mark Thrash, a local legend in the early years of the national military park. Participants will meet at the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center before traveling onto the battlefield for the talk. Please dress appropriately for the weather and a folding chair might be desirable.

Born enslaved, Mark Thrash gained freedom after the Civil War and worked for the War Department as a laborer at Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park from 1894-1922.
He was a 'living memorial' enticing visitors to travel from across the country to hear his stories. He passed away in 1943 at 122 years old. Come learn more about Mark Thrash and his life’s story.

For more information about programs at Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, contact the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center at 706-866-9241, the Lookout Mountain Battlefield Visitor Center at 423-821-7786.
Memories
Governor Lee Announces Year-Long America 250 Celebration Across Tennessee
Governor Lee Announces Year-Long America 250 Celebration Across Tennessee
  • 7/1/2025

Governor Bill Lee today announced a year-long, statewide America 250 celebration and unveiled a commemorative poster – titled “Tennessee: The Original Frontier” – that highlights the iconic people, ... more

AUDIO: Frank McDonald With The Dismembered Tennesseans
AUDIO: Frank McDonald With The Dismembered Tennesseans
  • 7/1/2025

The Walden’s Ridge Civic Center on Signal Mountain was home of the Mountain Opry for over 40 years. There were continuous shows every Friday night until April, 2020. The Dismembered Tennesseans ... more

AUDIO: Lee Anderson On How He Started In The Newspaper Business
AUDIO: Lee Anderson On How He Started In The Newspaper Business
  • 6/27/2025

Lee Stratton Anderson is one of Chattanooga’s most famous individuals working at the News Free Press as a reporter, editor and publisher for 70 years. The longtime News Free Press editor ... more