You can find several tributes to “The Big Nine” on MLK Boulevard. | Photo provided by Chattanooga Tourism Co.
The city of Chattanooga was incorporated in 1839, following the establishment of the Ross’s Landing settlement in 1816 by brothers John and Lewis Ross.
Over the last 185+ years, the city has been touched by countless historical figures and happenings — many of which have shaped the names of Chattanooga’s streets.
MLK Boulevard | This downtown street once went by Ninth Street before becoming MLK Boulevard in the 1980s. The original name gave way to the surrounding community’s nickname of “The Big Nine,” the center of a nightclub district that rivaled Memphis’ Beale Street. The street was later named after Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., after local citizens and the Black Coalition of Chattanooga campaigned for the rename.
Patten Parkway | Formerly known as Market Square + centered around the site of the Old City Market, this area was renamed to honor the late Z.C. Patten in 1945. Patten Square is now home to public art, restaurants, and commercial businesses.
Remember when Brothers Bagel teased a new location? Readers emailed us with their guesses — including a few confident sightings on Brainerd Road. And now, newly issued business licenses seem to confirm it: Brothers Bagel is headed to 5231 Brainerd Rd. (Chattanooga Times Free Press)
Transit
Come on and take a free ride… with CARTA. The Chattanooga transportation service is offering free rides to anyone who donates a non-perishable food item this Sunday, Dec. 7 through Thursday, Dec. 11. Just bring the item with you when you board — plus an extra for a free ride home. (Chattanoogan)
Seasonal
Collegedale is hosting its annual Christmas celebration this Sunday, Dec. 7 from 3 to 7 p.m. at The Commons. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there, along with festive food, crafts, and games. Carolers and the mayor will help kick off the tree lighting at 6:30 p.m. (WDEF)
Cause
Kidney disease has touched countless lives, and “Nooga Has Heart: An Afternoon for Life” is bringing those stories to the stage. The benefit for local artist Laurence Woods happens Sunday, Dec. 14 at 3:30 p.m. at Mac Avenue Event Space (1304 McCallie Ave.). Ticket proceeds support Woods’ care. (The Pulse)
Shop
Just a reminder that the Chattanooga Holiday Market is in Knoxville this weekend and next due to a scheduling conflict. While we have plenty of festive happenings here at home (just check our monthly Plan Ahead), you can trust our friends over at 865today to play tour guide if you make the trip.
Trending
Literally. Google just released its Year in Search data, and here are Chattanooga’s top trending searches: Song? “Wood” by Taylor Swift. Jersey? Quarterback Drake Maye of the New England Patriots. Slang term? 67, of course. Editor Sarah here: I contributed to the “67” search and still don’t know what it means.
Pets
Cats are naturally mysterious — but their health doesn’t have to be. With Basepaws Cat DNA Test, you’ll uncover your cat’s breed mix, genetic traits, and potential health risks that other tests miss. Get 47% off for Cyber Week and gain science-backed insights into your feline’s health.*
Edu
ChattState recently announced the Ernestine Carter Endowed Nursing Scholarship. The new scholarship honors Ernestine Carter’s legacy as a trailblazer in the Chattanooga healthcare community and will help the next generation of nurses carry her legacy forward. Learn more.*
Finance
This just in: 6% is the new 2%. This card is every reward-seeker’s dream, offering up to 6% cash back in categories you’ll actually use. Bonus: You can get 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers into 2027. Learn more and apply.*
The Buy
A foaming toilet cleaner that tackles stains, rings, and odors with zero scrubbing. Splash Foam Cleaner offers a hands-free way to achieve a sparkling clean toilet in three easy steps: pour, let it foam, and flush. It’s that easy.
Which of the following shows will not be performed in Chattanooga this month?
Well, it looks like some of you need to re-read our December Plan Ahead, because only 26% of readers chose the correct answer, which was “A Christmas Carol.”
If you’ve ever had food delivered from Mr. Beast Burger, Tender Shack, or The Wing Experience — you’ve eaten from one. They’re virtual food brands often operated out of existing chain restaurants.
Pro tips: Choose known, local businesses when ordering food, and if you’re unsure about a company, copy the address into Google and it should tell you where the food is coming from.
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