“Gateway to Freedom,” a powerful new exhibit honoring the vital yet historically overlooked contributions of Black soldiers and civilians during the Civil War is on display at the Chattanooga Civic Center Mountainside. The exhibit’s location adds another layer of significance–housed at 701 Hooker Road in what was once Piney Woods Elementary School, a segregated institution for Black children.
This dual purpose as both educational resource and memorial seems particularly fitting as the nation observes Black History Month, inviting visitors to explore and reflect on the enduring struggle for freedom and equality.
Two life-sized, unarmed soldier mannequins flank the entrance to the exhibit, representing the thousands of Black men and women, both enslaved and free, who played crucial roles in the Union’s victory over the Confederacy. Their simple clothing, including a burlap shirt and denim slacks, reflects the attire of the time, while black fabric stretched over their faces ensures they stand as symbols for all who fought, rather than specific individuals.
“Gateway to Freedom” is the brainchild of John Edwards, publisher and CEO of the Chattanooga News Chronicle and former president of the Mary Walker Historical and Educational Foundation. Edwards created the exhibit to bring long-overdue recognition to Black contributions during the Civil War.
“The role of Black soldiers and civilians is often overshadowed in mainstream narratives,” Edwards said. “This exhibit ensures their sacrifices and triumphs are remembered.”
The exhibit is arranged with a series of placards detailing various aspects of Black participation in the Civil War. One of the most striking displays features a Civil War-era recruitment poster urging, “MEN OF COLOR! To arms! To arms! NOW OR NEVER!” Beneath the bold proclamation, images of Black Union soldiers and a wooden fence with burned-in inscriptions narrate their story.
The exhibit also honors the 16 Black Medal of Honor recipients from the Civil War. A separate panel highlights the contributions of Black women, including Susie King Taylor, who served as a nurse alongside Clara Barton, and Elizabeth Keckley, dressmaker and confidante to Mary Todd Lincoln. Political cartoons from the era reveal the prejudices Black soldiers faced, even from their supposed allies in the North.
One particularly inspiring local story is that of Hubbard Pryor, an enslaved man who escaped from Georgia, made his way to Chattanooga, and became one of the first African Americans to enlist in the 44th U.S. Colored Infantry. Visitors can also view photographs of Black soldiers’ graves at the Chattanooga National Cemetery, reinforcing the lasting legacy of their service.
To enhance the immersive experience, Edwards has incorporated period-appropriate props, including a bale of cotton symbolizing the labor of enslaved people and vintage muskets encased in glass. These elements, combined with rare photographs and detailed interpretive text, create a vivid and unflinching portrayal of the Civil War era.
“Gateway to Freedom” will be on display through the end of February 2025. The Chattanooga Civic Center Mountainside, located at 701 Hooker Rd., invites individuals and groups to schedule visits by calling (423) 267-2313, (423) 331-8878, or (423) 308-9969.
The free exhibit is sponsored by the Chattanooga News Chronicle, the Mary Walker Historical and Educational Foundation, and the Alton Park Development Corporation. Tax-deductible donations can be made to the Mary Walker Foundation at marywalkerfoundation.org.