Statement of Significance (as of designation - September 8, 1986):
This is the best preserved and most important compact, yet diverse, sample of archeological remains known in the Tennessee River Valley, indicative of Chattanooga's pivotal status in trade, communications, economics, and political importance in the interior Southeast. The site includes evidence of occupation by Native American groups of the Archaic, Woodland, and Mississippian periods; because of 16th-century Spanish trade and gift items found there, the site provides significant opportunities to study the early contact period in the Southeast. Also included are Civil War earthworks associated with the battle of Chattanooga.

Condition:
The Tennessee River has been identified as an ongoing threat to the integrity of this NHL. Over the years, the river has eroded away some of the land that comprise this National Archeological District. Most likely, the NHL has probably lost some cultural resources, because the river current is constantly eroding away the river bank lands. The National Park Service is currently working with the Army Corps of Engineers to implement a riverbank stabilization project designed to stop this.