Chattanooga, August 13, 2025
News Summary
A free exhibit titled “Building the Big Nine: A Legacy of Black Excellence” is now open at Ruby Falls, showcasing Chattanooga’s historic Black business district. Curated by Dr. Stefanie Haire, Ph.D., this exhibit highlights the significance of the Big Nine District which thrived from the late 1800s to the mid-20th century. Visitors can explore the impacts of urban renewal and segregation while honoring the legacy of Black entrepreneurs. The exhibit runs until November 6, 2025, and expects around 170,000 visitors, making it an important cultural event.
Chattanooga Celebrates Black History with New Exhibit at Ruby Falls
A new free exhibit titled “Building the Big Nine: A Legacy of Black Excellence” is now open to the public at Ruby Falls, highlighting Chattanooga’s historic Black business district. This exhibition will be available until November 6, 2025, and is curated by historian Dr. Stefanie Haire, Ph.D.
The exhibit focuses on the Big Nine District, a once-thriving center of Black commerce, culture, and community that was active from the late 1800s through the mid-20th century. The Big Nine included a variety of establishments such as private hospitals, Black-owned beauty stores, restaurants, and Chattanooga’s very first preschool, showcasing a vibrant tapestry of Black entrepreneurship and business success.
Dr. Haire emphasizes that the significance of the Big Nine District extends beyond just East 9th Street and Westside; it included all surrounding streets and thoroughfares. She compares its importance to renowned cultural sites like the Garden District in New Orleans and Beale Street in Memphis.
Emphasis on History and Legacy
The exhibit honors the legacy of Black entrepreneurs who thrived under challenging conditions during the Jim Crow era, predating the Civil Rights Act. Dr. Haire’s research involved extensive study using Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps, census records, and city directories, leading to the compilation of a comprehensive database of Black-owned businesses active from roughly 1899 to 1960.
Visitors will have the opportunity to see data extracted from city directories, illustrating the impact of segregation on everyday life during that era. This exhibition builds upon Dr. Haire’s earlier showcase held at Ruby Falls in 2023, which centered on Horace Brazelton, Chattanooga’s first Black professional portrait photographer.
Impact of Urban Renewal
Urban renewal initiatives throughout the years have significantly diminished the Big Nine District, displacing numerous residents and businesses. Additionally, the construction of Highway 27 further fragmented the area that once thrived as the Big Nine District, resulting in the loss of cultural landmarks and community connections.
To encourage further exploration into this legacy, visitors are invited to also visit the Bessie Smith Cultural Center and the Chattanooga African American Museum, both excellent resources for understanding the historical significance of the region. Notably, the exhibit includes discussions about the Martin Hotel, once the largest Black-owned and operated hotel in Tennessee, located on the site of the Bessie Smith Cultural Center.
Visitor Information
Ruby Falls anticipates around 170,000 visitors to view the exhibit. Importantly, the exhibit is free and accessible to everyone, not requiring a ticket purchase for the cave or waterfall attractions. Ruby Falls is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Meanwhile, the Bessie Smith Cultural Center and the Chattanooga African American Museum operate Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Ongoing community efforts continue to celebrate and revive the legacy of the Big Nine through modern art installations and culinary experiences that reflect its rich history.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exhibit Title | Building the Big Nine: A Legacy of Black Excellence |
| Location | Ruby Falls |
| Duration | Open until November 6, 2025 |
| Curator | Dr. Stefanie Haire, Ph.D. |
| Significance | Celebration of the Big Nine District and its impact on Black entrepreneurship |
| Addressing Urban Renewal | Discussion of effects on the Big Nine District |
| Expected Visitors | Approximately 170,000 |
| Visitor Hours | Daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. |
FAQ
What is the “Building the Big Nine” exhibit?
It is a free exhibit celebrating Chattanooga’s historic Black business district, the Big Nine, curated by Dr. Stefanie Haire, Ph.D.
When will the exhibit be open until?
The exhibit will be open until November 6, 2025.
What were some businesses located in the Big Nine District?
The Big Nine included private hospitals, Black-owned beauty stores, restaurants, and the city’s first preschool.
Is there an entrance fee for the exhibit?
No, the exhibit is free and does not require purchase of tickets for other attractions at Ruby Falls.
What are the gallery hours for Ruby Falls?
Ruby Falls is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
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Additional Resources
- Chattanooga Pulse: Ruby Falls Exhibit Honors Chattanooga’s Historic Black Business
- Times Free Press: Big 9 Music Festival Gallery
- Chattanoogan: New Exhibit at Ruby Falls Honors
- National Geographic: Discover the History of Tennessee’s Forgotten Music Empire
- Wikipedia: Black Business Districts in the United States
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
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