It’s not so often anymore that you hear Chattanooga referred to as the Dynamo of Dixie — a nickname that once reflected the city’s wide-ranging foundries and factories.
Yes, that sector of our economy had its share of problems — most notably intense air pollution that even the not-so-very-old among us may recall.
But it also supported tens of thousands of families in the area with comparatively high wages.
Nevertheless, over time the industrial sector shrank — with significant economic pain — and it became far more common to hear of Chattanooga as the Scenic City of the South, or just the Scenic City, than as the Dynamo of Dixie.
We’re justifiably proud, of course, that so many tourists and residents enjoy the lovely scenery here. It’s a vital part of Chattanooga’s appeal. But it’s also encouraging that the city hasn’t lost its industrial dynamo mojo entirely — not by a long shot.