IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SUPPORT OUR EFFORTS TO SAVE MOCCASIN BEND, PLEASE CONSIDER Making a donation via the box below.

THANK YOU!

Our Forever Moccasin Bend campaign began with the "Open the Gateway" phase which raised funds to create a welcoming entrance to the country's only National Archeological District. That phase was a success, and construction on the Gateway is expected to begin in 2024! Thank you for your support!

Forever Moccasin Bend now enters its second phase, “Save the Bend, Again” which focuses on preventing new construction of nonconforming uses that threaten historically significant and culturally sensitive Indigenous resources within the Moccasin Bend National Historic Landmark boundary.

Elected officials at every level – local, state, and federal – agreed in 2003 to preserve more than 750 acres on Moccasin Bend through the National Archeological District designation, and to remove nonconforming uses (including the Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute, built in 1961) at the earliest opportunity.

That opportunity is NOW as Tennesseans face another pivotal moment in the story of our complicated relationship with Moccasin Bend. As landowners of this public property, residents must demand a voice in deciding the highest and best use of this historically and culturally significant landscape for the next 60+ years. While National Park Partners recognizes the importance of modernizing and expanding our state’s mental health facilities, we categorically oppose new construction of nonconforming uses within the National Historic Landmark on Moccasin Bend.

#moccasinbendmatters

About the Gateway:

Along with a new programming pavilion and accessible walkway near the Tennessee River, the project establishes a parking area, restrooms, and an interpretive display with trail maps and highlights of Moccasin Bend's 12,000 years of history.

Environmental landscaping improvements include a bio-swale feature to provide animal habitat, allow for natural stormwater drainage, and encourage native plant growth.

This initial phase was successful, and the project was fully funded! Thank you for your support! You have helped us Open the Gateway and create this great new great outdoor space for you and future generations to enjoy.