After reviewing historical records, the Tennessee state historian is officially recommending plans for new development around Old Summit Cemetery stop until the boundaries of it can be determined.
The neglected cemetery, tucked in a private patch of woods north of Interstate 75 and a few yards away from Enterprise South Nature Park, has been the subject of concern for local historians and residents familiar with the area.
It became a focus of public attention last fall when Hamilton County’s plans to allow industrial development in the area were brought to light by the Chattanooga Times Free Press.
With just a handful of legible headstones left, old federal data indicates there may be over 200 unmarked graves in the area, and records show the area was previously a historically Black community with multiple churches and a school.
Now, a new statement of historical significance from Tennessee state historian Carroll Van West, submitted to the Tennessee Historical Commission, asks for the spot to be documented as a cemetery property and protected from future development.