On Thursday, Sept. 26, Gov. Bill Lee announced that the state of Tennessee would end plans to build a new mental hospital on the Moccasin Bend National Archeological District.
“Tennessee’s robust conservation strategy balances our state’s growth with a plan to protect our environment, which is why we pursued an archeological study at Moccasin Bend,” said Gov. Lee. “I look forward to working with stakeholders to determine the best path forward for this historic site.”
The governor’s statement comes after years of grassroots and community work, as National Park Partners has advocated for decades that the best use of Moccasin Bend is one of historic, natural preservation.
After the state announced earlier this year its plans to renovate the hospital, a large response arose from community leaders from here to Washington. #SaveTheBend began a grassroots campaign to preserve Moccasin Bend – the nation’s only National Archeological District – from the threat of new construction.
National Park Partners continued its expansive work, building community support from near and far while other volunteer-led groups organized a 4500-signature petition drive and grassroots social media campaign.
Thursday’s announcement was received with great joy.
“We are appreciative of Gov. Lee, Commissioner Williams and the Hamilton County delegation for their diligence in commissioning an archeological survey that proved what so many of us knew in our hearts and minds. The survey reveals without a doubt the immeasurable value of Moccasin Bend’s cultural and historic significance, that simply cannot be lost. We thank them for their wisdom in waiting until the survey findings were announced before making a decision,” said Tricia King Mims, executive director of National Park Partners.
“We look forward to Moccasin Bend becoming a world-class national park asset for our city, region and country,” continued Mims. “We are truly thankful for the decades of work that countless community members have poured into this moment. Saving Moccasin Bend will further enrich this region for years and years to come.”
The announcement comes days before the 20th anniversary of the formation of the Moccasin Bend National Archeological District; on Monday, Oct. 14, National Park Partners celebrates all the local, state, regional and national friends who made that 2004 moment possible with a community celebration.
The day also includes the welcoming of the National Trail of Tears Association, which opens its annual conference here in Chattanooga.
A recent archeological survey demonstrated what so many have been saying for years: Moccasin Bend is a place of immense and unparalleled value and treasure.
“Today, the state of Tennessee honors the tremendous cultural and historic significance of this iconic landform,” said Mims. “National Park Partners is deeply grateful to join the National Park Service, our tribal partners and the Chattanooga community in receiving this powerful, wonderful news. We thank Gov. Lee and our delegates for their wisdom, foresight and judgment in realizing the best use of Moccasin Bend.”
Here are excerpts from the state’s press release on Thursday:
The State has determined that it will pursue alternative locations for the Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute (MBMHI) replacement facility with the goal of utilizing taxpayer dollars efficiently and continuing to serve Tennesseans living with the most severe mental health challenge
Key findings include:
1. 73% of the state-owned parcel at MBMHI is comprised of a multi-component archaeological site containing buried layers of historic and pre-contact materials, occupation surfaces, and features (pits, hearth materials, etc.).
2. The presence of Woodland period features (pits and occupation surfaces) indicates that there are likely more intact features within the site, some of which may still contain human remains or isolated burials. No human remains or burials were found during the survey. 3. Areas within the parcel exhibit excellent preservation and integrity.