In case you missed it, Moccasin Bend has made quite the headlines over the last year as it was being scoped for the development of a new facility to replace the Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute (MBMHI). Now, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee has announced the state will not build on the land.
This decision comes after the initial results from an archeological review that’s being conducted on the state-owned portion of the land — the first since the institute was first built in 1961. Let’s break down the study + the efforts that led to this decision.
“While land use decisions on the Bend haven’t always taken these precious resources into account, a new story begins with this decision by the Governor,” said Administrator of Parks and Outdoors Scott Martin.
Key findings
- Crews found 73% of the state-owned MBMHI site contains resources that show Native American life and culture from layers of historic + pre-contact materials — think: pits, hearth materials, etc.
- No human remains or burials were found, but the presence of the Woodland Period (700 B.C. through 1000 A.D.) features indicates there could be more found on the site.
- The site has areas that showcase strong preservation and integrity.
Local efforts
While the state owns 86 acres that the institute sits on, Moccasin Bend spans across 956 acres as a National Archeological District. This designation was accomplished in 2003, making history as the country’s first and only national archeological district.
Throughout all that time, local nonprofit National Park Partners have been advocating to keep developments off the land. You might have seen the “Save the Bend” petitions + public forums over the last few months.
Looking to be a part of the conservation efforts for Moccasin Bend’s history and future? Start by joining in on upcoming events + discussions.
You can also expect full findings of the study to be released in November as the state continues its search for a location that better fits the ~$260 million development.
