A new exhibit, hosted by Ruby Falls from July 30 to Nov. 6, highlights Chattanooga’s historic black business district. Curated by historian Stefanie Haire, Ph.D., "Building the Big Nine: A Legacy of Black Excellence" explores the "profound influence, enduring spirit and achievements of the Big Nine District."
Officials said, "Flourishing in the late 1800s through the mid-20th century, the district became the vibrant center of black commerce, culture and community, shaped by the determination and vision of black men and women navigating the deep complexities of racial discrimination.
"Centered along Chattanooga’s 9th Street, renamed Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard in 1981, and encompassing the surrounding areas, the Big Nine District was pivotal for generations of black entrepreneurs, artists and families who forged significant economic growth and community collaboration."
The exhibit spotlights a selection of the district’s businesses and cultural centers, as well as the international attention gained when prominent historian and sociologist W.E.B. Du Bois included Chattanooga’s black community in his contribution to the 1900 Paris Exposition.
“The Big Nine District’s considerable economic, cultural and social influence was transformative in Chattanooga’s development,” said Stefanie Haire, Ph.D., historian and curator of the exhibit. “By exploring this part of our city’s history, we not only honor its legacy but also gain inspiration from a community that turned struggle into ambition, entrepreneurship and collective empowerment that resisted limits.”
The exhibit features contributions from the Tennessee State Library and Archives, the Library of Congress, the Chattanooga Public Library, the Picnooga/Chattanooga Historical Society, Tennessee State University, the New York Public Library, the Franklin Family, ChattanoogaHistory.com and the Bessie Smith Cultural Center.
Officials said, "Building the Big Nine is projected to reach more than 170,000 visitors while hosted by Ruby Falls. Drawing guests from 44 states and 42 countries in 2024, the Lookout Mountain park provides a unique opportunity for collaboration in celebrating Chattanooga’s black heritage.
"In 2023, Ruby Falls hosted the exhibit, "Through the Lens: The Life and Legacy of Horace Brazelton," curated by Dr. Haire. Mr. Brazelton was a trailblazing, nationally recognized professional photographer. He was the first African American to open a professional photography studio in Chattanooga and was a prominent civic leader. The Big Nine District was home to Horace Brazelton and his business from 1906 to 1956. Several photos of business owners featured in Building the Big Nine are attributed to Horace Brazelton."
“The history behind the Big Nine district speaks to how a community can organize in the face of adversity and the power of the human spirit,” says Hugh Morrow, Ruby Falls president and CEO. “This is a story that resonates with people, regardless of where they live, because it inspires understanding. The Big Nine is a Chattanooga story, and it is also the story of many cities across the United States. The Ruby Falls team is honored to share this exhibit with Chattanoogans as well as our guests who visit from all over the world.”
Exhibit admission is free and open to the public, July 30-Nov. 6. Ruby Falls tickets are not required to visit the exhibit. For more information, visit www.rubyfalls.com/events/building-the-big-nine/. Visitors are encouraged to learn more by visiting the Bessie Smith Cultural Center and Chattanooga African American Museum.