Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians - History, Language and Religion

History, Language and Religion

The Eastern Band members are primarily descended from Cherokee who did not participate in the Trail of Tears to Indian Territory (now Oklahoma). Principal Chief Yonaguska, with the help of his adopted European-American son, William Holland Thomas, managed to evade removal. The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians still practice many of the original tribal ceremonies. Many prominent Cherokee historians are affiliated with, or are members of the Eastern Band.

Tsali (pronounced ) opposed the removal. He remained in the traditional Cherokee lands with a small group who resisted the U.S. Army and tried to thwart the removal on what became known as the Trail of Tears. Tsali was eventually captured. He was executed by the United States in exchange for the lives of the small band he protected. They were allowed to remain in the Cherokee homeland, and their descendants have been recognized as the modern Eastern Band.

The Museum of the Cherokee Indian exhibits an extensive collection of artifacts and items of historical and cultural interest, from the early Mississippian Period through modern times, related to the Cherokee Culture. The Cherokee Heritage Center displays historical artifacts related to the Trail of Tears, and the development of the Oklahoma Cherokee culture.