History of Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga has a vibrant and rich history. From the country's first and largest military park, Ross's Landing on the riverfront, the Chattanooga Choo Choo Terminal Station Complex to the International Towing and Recovery Museum Hall of Fame- everything contributes to the astonishing story and culture of the city.
Where Did the Name "Chattanooga" Come From?
It is a Creek Indian word that means "rock coming to a point." This is in reference to Lookout Mountain which starts in Chattanooga stretching to Alabama and Georgia. Initially, the city was named Ross's Landing and Lookout City before it officially became "Chattanooga" in 1838.
Civil War
Some of the most complex and hardest fought battles took place in the fall of 1863 on Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge. The city of Chattanooga was in a strategic location, with all the rail systems and river, it is said to be the doorway to the Deep South and the main location for the Confederate and the Union armies.
Native American History
In 1816, Ross's Landing, on the Chattanooga Riverfront was founded by John Ross, Cherokee Indian Chief. The location had a ferry, warehouse, and landing. Ross's Landing did not only serve as the only Cherokee trade but also a business center that is convenient for all. Cherokee groups flee from Ross's Landing to go to the West which became popular as the Trail of Tears.
Battles For ChattanoogaSince the Confederate victory at Chickamauga in September 1863 in northwest Georgia, the Union army withdraws to the main railroad intersection of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Braxton Bragg, the Confederate General at that time surrounded the city which in turn cut off access to Union supplies. As a response, President Abraham Lincoln commanded Major General Ulysses Grant to Chattanooga. Grant strengthened the city which led for the opening of a much-needed supply line.
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The Battle of Chattanooga commenced on November 23 when General Thomas was sent by Grant to survey the center of the Confederate line. The straightforward plan turned resulted in a total victory. Orchard knob and the Rebels were captured by the Yankees and withdrew to the higher up Missionary Ridge. Under the supervision of Major General Joseph Hooker, the Yankees captured Lookout Mountain on November 24.
Aftermath
The Union had an estimated 5,800 casualties, while there were around 6,600 casualties in the part of the Confederates. Grant failed to destroy the Confederate army due to his decision of not pursuing the retreating Rebels. Sherman led the next attack in the spring after Grant's promotion as the general in chief of the Federal forces.
Train History
The history of Chattanooga's train system goes back before the Civil War. The city is in a strategic location that helped in many of the battles. Glen Miller Orchestra who recorded the song "Chattanooga Choo Choo" became the first gold record and made Chattanooga popular.
At present, you can still feel the "Golden Age" and ride a train at the Tennessee Valley Railroad or take a ride at Lookout Mountain on the world's steepest passenger railway, the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway.
At present, you can still feel the "Golden Age" and ride a train at the Tennessee Valley Railroad or take a ride at Lookout Mountain on the world's steepest passenger railway, the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway.