UTC student and History Center intern, Beth Ann Boatman, presents her research as museum consultant, Michael LaPaglia listens in the background. Elements of the results of Beth Ann’s research will be incorporated into the new History Center exhibit.
The Chattanooga History Center and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga History Department have just concluded a cooperative project funded by a University of Chattanooga Foundation grant. The project was coordinated by CHC’s Executive Director, Dr. Daryl Black, and the History Department’s Dr. Ralph Covino.
The grant provided funds for twelve UTC history student interns to conduct research for CHC’s new permanent exhibit. The work included a deep examination of the Cherokee Camp at Ross’ Landing in 1838, the environmental impact of local industry in the mid-twentieth century, and the experiences of Chattanoogans during World War I and World War II. The students gained valuable knowledge and experience through intensive research of both primary and secondary sources, personal interviews, and visits to sites where events occurred, and, Dr. Kittrell Rushing, Interim Department Head of UTC’s History Department, said of the collaboration, “The mutually beneficial results of the UC Foundation sponsored work of UTC history students and the Chattanooga History Center staff set a precedent and a standard for future projects. The project made clear the benefits and the advantages of combining the talents and skills of our history students and faculty with the experience and expertise of the museum staff. This project was a "win-win" for both school and museum. I want to see our work continue.”
The summer interns presented their work to CHC and UTC staff, and museum consultant Michael LaPaglia, of LaPaglia & Associates, at the History Center on August 21st. LaPaglia & Associates will work with CHC staff to incorporate information gained by the grant project into the final exhibit designs for CHC’s new home. Dr. Black commented on the students’ results: “I’ve been really impressed by their resourcefulness. The research they conducted has uncovered new facets of Chattanooga’s past, opened doors to new research and understanding, and laid a solid foundation for a fresh telling of the history of this place.”
