Randolph Miller (1830–1916)

The original publisher of The Blade Weekly, a radical voice for justice in Chattanooga.

Section 01 // The Origin Story

A Legacy of Sharp Wit & Sharp Truth.

In 1898, Randolph Miller launched The Blade, a weekly newspaper that refused to stay silent. Miller, who escaped slavery before the Civil War, became a legendary figure in Chattanooga, known for his uncompromising editorials and his refusal to bow to the prejudices of the era.

The original Blade wasn't just a newspaper; it was a rallying point. Miller used his platform to advocate for civil rights, economic independence, and local accountability. His writing was sharp—earning the paper its name—and his impact was undeniable.

Today, we resurrect that name. Not as a carbon copy of the past, but as a continuation of its spirit. We believe Chattanooga deserves media that is as sharp, as honest, and as locally grounded as Miller's original broadsheet.

Section 02 // The Visionary

Led by Marie Mott.

Marie Mott is a community leader, historian, and the driving force behind the modern iteration of The Blade. With a deep commitment to Chattanooga's neighborhoods and a background in community advocacy, Marie recognized a gap in the city's media landscape.

She envisioned a publication that didn't just report on the city from the outside looking in, but one that lived and breathed with the people. Under her leadership, The Blade focuses on depth over speed, and community impact over clicks.

Section 03 // The Beat

Modern Stories.
Local Roots.

We aren't trying to cover everything. We are trying
to cover what matters to the people of Chattanooga.