Cherokee, North Carolina
Nestled in the Great Smoky range of the Appalachian Mountains, the Qualla Boundary, with its capital in Cherokee, North Carolina, encompasses over 56,000 acres of land in western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee, and is home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians - a federally-recognized tribe of more than 12,500.
Today, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians trace their family histories back to about 1,000 Cherokees who avoided removal to Indian Territory in 1838 on what is now called the Trail of Tears. In 1924, descendants of these 1,000 Cherokee signed the Baker Roll of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, which is now the basis for tribal citizenship.
In 1940, with the opening of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Cherokee economy changed forever, making tourism its primary industry. In 1948, Cherokee, North Carolina, saw the opening of the Museum of the Cherokee Indians and the premier of the outdoor historical drama Unto These Hills. Later, in 1952, the tribe opened the Oconaluftee Indian Village.
Access: There is always something worth seeing and doing in Cherokee, North Carolina but the Cherokee Indian Fair in October is certainly an experience not to miss.
Stay: Cherokee, North Carolina is situated on the eastern side of the Great Smoky Mountains. If you're looking for a comfortable place to stay the night, check out BedandBreakfast.com for a selection of nearby Bed & Breakfasts:
GPS: 35.47695740033129,-83.32048416137695
Map & Directions:
View All Things Cherokee Travel Center in a larger map
Cherokee, North Carolina is just east of the Great Smoky Mountains on Highway 441. For specific directions, click the "Directions" link in the location bubble of the map above and enter your starting location on the left.
May Featured Title - Gifts & Books
Trail of Tears: The Rise and Fall of the Cherokee Nation
Gives a fascinating portrayal of the Cherokee Nation, filled with legend, lore and religion. After much research the author has created a heart-stirring story of the tragedy of the Cherokee Trail of Tears which puts one into the time and place of that tragic time with a sense of authenticity and accuracy.
Order Trail of Tears: The Rise and Fall of the Cherokee Nation
Cherokee Art Gallery
Family Tree Research
Cherokee Roll Search
May Featured Site - Travel Center
New Echota Historic Site
The city of New Echota was established in 1825 as the capital of the Cherokee Nation and it would remain so until 1838, at which point the Cherokee Nation capital moved to Indian Territory with the Trail of Tears. Yet, despite its short history, this city witnessed many significant events... (More)
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