Riverfront in Chattanooga in Hamilton County, Tennessee — The American South (East South Central)
Welcome to Chattanooga
Photographed by Joel Seewald, April 29, 2024
1. Welcome to Chattanooga Marker — left panel
[left panel]
Welcome to Chattanooga
You made it! You're here. Isn't it great so far?
You might have questions. Here are a few that we answer all the time:
What does Chattanooga mean?
The word "Chattanooga" is believed to have derived from Tsatanugi, a word in the Cherokee language, and means "rock coming to a point" or "end of the mountain." Of course, that "rock coming to a point" would be a reference to our famous Lookout Mountain.
Hey, isn't there a song about Chattanooga?
Yep! Chattanooga became a household name in 1942 when the Glenn Miller Orchestra sang about the "Chattanooga Choo-Choo" in the film "Sun Valley Serenade." By February 10, 1942, more than 1.2 million copies of the song had been sold, making it the first ever solid-gold hit!
[Second panel from the left]
From this vantage point, there are Chattanooga easter eggs all around you. Get to know the thought process for each unique feature you see below!
Railroad Tracks
Dubbed the "Gateway to the South" during the Civil War (1861-1865), Chattanooga was a crucial city due to its geographical location and the multiple railroads that converged
this page online
[second panel from the right]
The Beginning of the Stream
This stream appears to be bursting up through the ground reminiscent of the effects of an earthquake. In 1811 and 1812, a series of catastrophic earthquakes resulted in the creation of Reelfoot Lake near the Tennessee and Kentucky state border. Breaks in the ground of the plaza represent geologic events like these earthquakes that formed some of Tennessee's rivers, lakes, and topography.
Basket Design
In the paver band directly to your left, you will see designs at regular intervals inspired by a pattern sewn by Appalachian quilters. The red oaks like those planted in the "handles" of the baskets towards the far end of
Photographed by Joel Seewald, April 29, 2024
2. Welcome to Chattanooga Marker — second panel from the left
Check out our blog post for more information on what's around you!
[right panel]
Chattanooga's Spring Break Safari
During Spring Break Safari, Chattanooga transforms into a place where kids rule, and adventure is everywhere. Every spring, participating attractions offer kids the chance to use their imaginations and have fun while exploring area attractions. Kids won't be able to resist exploring with hands-on activities and scavenger hunts throughout the city designed just for them.
Scan the QR code for more details. Start anywhere you would like; adventures are independent of each other.
Waterfall, Hiking, and Overlooks
If you want an urban hike that leads you to unique city views, check out Stringers Ridge in North Chattanooga. Stop for a swim in Rainbow Lake, but disclaimer: it is not, in fact, a lake filled with rainbows. The Chattanooga area is home to some of the more impressive waterfalls in the southeast. So hit the trails and enjoy the beauty of these gems that are bound to impress.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in
Photographed by Joel Seewald, April 29, 2024
3. Welcome to Chattanooga Marker — second panel from the right
Location. 35° 3.33′ N, 85° 18.623′ W. Marker is in Chattanooga, Tennessee, in Hamilton County. It is in Riverfront. It can be reached from Market Street west of East First Street, on the right when traveling south. The marker is in Aquarium Plaza next to the Chattanooga Visitor Information Center. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 1 Aquarium Way, Chattanooga TN 37402, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in the American South, specifically in the Upper South, in Appalachia, and specifically in Southern Appalachia. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the original Cherokee Nation, the territory of the Mississippian Culture, one of the Confederate States of America, and the Antebellum South.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Ross's Landing (within shouting distance of
Photographed by Joel Seewald, April 29, 2024
4. Welcome to Chattanooga Marker — right panel
Other markers no longer nearby. Headquarters of Major General U. S. Grant, U.S.A. (was about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line but has been confirmed missing); 1790 John Ross 1866 (was about 500 feet away but has been confirmed missing).
Also see . . . Get to Know the Aquarium Plaza. More information about Aquarium Plaza's symbolism in a Chattanooga Tourism blog post. (Submitted on August 12, 2024, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan.)
Photographed by Joel Seewald, April 29, 2024
5. Welcome to Chattanooga Marker
The four panels are at the top of the stairs overlooking Aquarium Plaza.
Photographed by Joel Seewald, April 29, 2024
6. Welcome to Chattanooga Marker
View overlooking Aquarium Plaza showing some of the symbolism mentioned on the panels.
Credits. This page was last revised on August 12, 2024. It was originally submitted on August 12, 2024, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan. This page has been viewed 249 times since then and 26 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. submitted on August 12, 2024, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan.
