Rossville, GA
County: Walker
History
Rossville, Georgia is a small city located in Walker County, in the northwestern part of the state. It is situated just south of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and lies along the Georgia-Tennessee state line. The history of Rossville dates back to the early 19th century.
The area that would later become Rossville was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee Nation. The first recorded white settler in the area was John Ross, a Scottish immigrant who married a Cherokee woman and became a prominent leader of the Cherokee Nation. Ross built a log cabin in the vicinity of Rossville and established a ferry crossing across the Tennessee River.
In the early 1830s, the United States government passed the Indian Removal Act, which aimed to relocate Native American tribes to lands west of the Mississippi River. This led to the forced removal of the Cherokee Nation from their ancestral lands in what became known as the Trail of Tears. Rossville served as a major staging point for the Cherokee removal, and many Native Americans were forcibly gathered and held there before being sent on the harsh journey westward.
Following the removal of the Cherokee, Rossville became a small agricultural community, with farming and lumber mills as the primary economic activities. The town was officially incorporated in 1905. In the early 20th century, Rossville experienced some development and growth, with the establishment of businesses, schools, and churches.
During the Civil War, Rossville played a significant role in the conflict. The town was occupied by both Union and Confederate forces at different times. The nearby Battle of Chickamauga, fought in September 1863 during the larger Chattanooga Campaign, resulted in a Confederate victory. The engagement was one of the bloodiest battles of the war and had a significant impact on the region.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Rossville became known for its mineral springs, which attracted visitors seeking the alleged health benefits of the waters. Many hotels, resorts, and amusement parks were built in the area to cater to tourists. However, with the decline in popularity of mineral springs and the advent of more accessible transportation, these attractions gradually faded away.
Today, Rossville remains a small suburban community, influenced by its historical connection to the Cherokee Nation and the events of the Civil War. The town is focused on preserving its history and continues to honor its past through museums, memorials, and historical markers.
Attractions
Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park
This historical site commemorates the Battle of Chickamauga during the American Civil War, with hiking trails and educational exhibits.
Jackson Park
This park features walking trails, a playground, picnic areas, and a disc golf course.
Prater's Mill
Located nearby in Dalton, GA, this 19th-century gristmill offers tours, historical exhibits, and hosts the annual Prater's Mill Country Fair.
Chattanooga Riverwalk
A scenic walking and biking path along the Tennessee River, offering beautiful views of the water and downtown Chattanooga.
Chickamauga Lake
Just a short drive outside of Rossville, this reservoir offers fishing, boating, and recreational opportunities.
Point Park
Situated on Lookout Mountain, this park overlooks Chattanooga and features Civil War monuments, hiking trails, and panoramic views.
Ruby Falls
Located in Chattanooga, this underground waterfall is an impressive natural wonder and offers guided tours.
Tennessee Aquarium
Also in Chattanooga, this aquarium showcases a variety of marine life and offers interactive exhibits.
Chattanooga Choo Choo
This historic train station in Chattanooga features restaurants, shops, a hotel, and the chance to ride a vintage trolley.
National Medal of Honor Heritage Center
A museum in Chattanooga that honors recipients of the Medal of Honor and recounts their stories.
Climate
Rossville, GA has a humid subtropical climate. The city experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year.
Summers in Rossville are hot and humid, with average high temperatures reaching the 90s°F (30s°C) during the day. The humidity levels can make it feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are quite common during the summer months, providing some relief from the heat.
Fall in Rossville is mild and pleasant. Temperatures gradually cool down from the high 70s°F (20s°C) in September to the low 60s°F (teens°C) in November. The humidity decreases, making it more comfortable to spend time outdoors.
Winters in Rossville are generally mild, but temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing. Average high temperatures range from the 50s°F (10s°C) to the 60s°F (teens°C), while nighttime temperatures can drop into the 30s°F (single digits to teens°C). Snowfall is infrequent, but it can occur occasionally during colder spells.
Spring in Rossville brings warmer weather, with temperatures gradually climbing back into the 70s°F (20s°C) and 80s°F (high 20s to low 30s°C). Rainfall becomes more frequent during this season, which helps bring forth blooming flowers and lush vegetation.
Overall, Rossville, GA experiences a fairly mild climate with moderate temperatures and a good amount of rainfall throughout the year.
Neighborhoods
Rossville, GA is a small city located in Walker County in the state of Georgia. While Rossville itself is relatively small, it encompasses a few distinct neighborhoods within its borders. Here are some of the different neighborhoods of Rossville:
Downtown Rossville
This is the heart of the city, where you'll find various shops, businesses, and local eateries. The downtown area holds a historic charm with some well-preserved buildings that reflect the city's history.
Lakeview
Situated around the southernmost part of Rossville, Lakeview is named after nearby Lakeview Fort Oglethorpe High School. This neighborhood features residential areas with a mix of single-family homes, apartment complexes, and some commercial establishments.
Springvale
Located in the western part of Rossville, Springvale is primarily a residential area. It offers a variety of housing options, including apartments, duplexes, and single-family homes. There are also a few local parks nearby, providing recreational opportunities for residents.
Fairview
Fairview is a neighborhood situated on the eastern side of Rossville. It is a relatively quiet residential area, characterized by tree-lined streets and a sense of community. This neighborhood is home to some local parks and small businesses.
Peavine
Peavine is an area in Rossville that stretches along Peavine Creek Road. It is a mix of residential and commercial properties and is known for its beautiful scenery, including the nearby Peavine Falls and the popular Cloudland Canyon State Park.
Each neighborhood in Rossville offers a unique atmosphere and amenities suited to different residents' preferences. It's worth noting that Rossville is a relatively small city, so the neighborhoods are all within close proximity to each other, making it easy to access different parts of the city.