A visit to the
Museum of the Cherokee Indian is more than just a chance to see artifacts it's a chance to understand the plight of a people who were forced to endure a horrible injustice.
Located in Cherokee, North Carolina, the
Museum of the Cherokee Indian is hailed as an innovative experience with the power to open eyes. Established in 1948, the Museum has been a constant favorite with residents and visitors of the city of Cherokee. The Museum was moved in the 1970s to the location that it currently resides. In 1998 the building underwent renovations and an additional 12,000 square feet was constructed.
The
Museum of the Cherokee Indian strives to teach the public about the tribe's past, the culture of the people, and the future of the Cherokee. Using modern equipment and displays, the history of the Cherokee is explored.
The Trail of Tears exhibit is perhaps the most poignant of the exhibits located in the museum. With the aid of technology, story telling, and artifacts the Trail of Tears is explored with the 2,200 miles unfolding before visitors' eyes. During 1838 by order of the U.S Government the Cherokee people were moved from their homes to what was called Indian Territory, a piece of land that was continually shrinking due to the Manifest Destiny ideology of pioneers.
The Trail of Tears exhibit is sure to resonate with every visitor no matter your ancestry. Believing in the importance of teaching the past to prevent repeats in the future, the
Museum of the Cherokee Indian do not shy away from the horror, tragedy, and sadness caused by the Trail of Tears.
