Beginning Thursday, June 16, tourists, groups, and locals will once again have the opportunity to take part in guided walking tours of historic downtown Ringgold.

The tours, which became a hit when introduced last summer, will take place every Thursday at 10 a.m., begin-ning and ending at the Ringgold Depot.

“It’s a great concept, and I’m glad that we’re continuing the tours this year,” said Daniel Shepard, marketing co-ordinator for the city of Ringgold. “In light of all that’s happened with the storm damage, it will be a great opportu-nity to show people that downtown Ringgold is still open for business and going strong.”

The hour-long walks will see the visitation of eight historic sites: the Depot, the downtown block, the Whitman Anderson house, the Ringgold Wedding Chapel, Ringgold Baptist Church, the Catoosa County Courthouse, the Methodist Cemetery, and the Original Bell of the church which is now located at the United Methodist Church. Background information, historical accounts, and interesting stories will be provided for each stop along the way.

“The tours not only give tourists and people from neighboring communities the opportunity to visit the historic sites, but it also allows us to educate locals that might not know all of the history involved with their city,” Shepard said.

Although there is no charge of admission to take part in the tour, those interested in taking the tour are encour-aged to make reservations by contacting the Ringgold Depot.

What: Ringgold Walking Tours

When: Thursdays at 10 a.m.

Where: The Ringgold Depot

Cost: Free

Contact: Daniel Shepard at (706) 935-5290 or at danielshepard@catt.com