Community profile: Rossville, Georgia, home to Civil War history

Bradley Brown, 2, rides on the carousel while Donny Brown stands by at Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park in Rossville, Ga.
Bradley Brown, 2, rides on the carousel while Donny Brown stands by at Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park in Rossville, Ga.

Location: In Northwest Georgia just across the state line from Chattanooga

Size: 1.8 square miles

Founded: Officially incorporated on Aug. 25, 1905, but the settlement known as Poplar Springs dates to 1785 as home to the Cherokee Nation.

Population: 4,105

Government: Mayor Teddy Harris; City Council members Cindy Bradshaw, Rick Buff, Hal Gray Jr. and Joyce Wall

Attractions: The home of Chief John Ross, leader of the Cherokees, was built in 1797. The 216-year-old house, located at 212 Andrews St., is the oldest home in the Chattanooga area. The house played a role in the Civil War as a hospital for both sides, and the large spring on the property was used after several battles. Rossville is also home to the amusement park Lake Winnepesaukah and its Soak Ya Water Park.

Schools: Rossville Elementary, Stone Creek Elementary, Rossville Middle, Ridgeland High

Famous residents: Chief John Ross; country singer Lauren Alaina, 2011 "American Idol" runner-up

Fun fact: Rossville is a forgotten part of the Battle of Missionary Ridge in which Confederate soldiers tried to defend their position on Cedar Hill, located behind what is now the local iconic diner, Roy's Grill. The Union Army also retreated to Rossville after losing the Battle of Chickamauga, and soldiers dug a trench around the Chief John Ross house to fortify themselves.

Quote: "I would want people to appreciate the historical significance of Rossville and recognize that there's so much down here that could be capitalized on." -- Larry Rose, association president of the Chief John Ross House

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