The Museum of the Cherokee People in the Smoky Mountains is a captivating cultural institution that preserves and shares the rich history, traditions, and stories of the Cherokee Nation. As a premier destination for visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains, this museum offers a unique and immersive experience that delves into the fascinating heritage of the Cherokee people.
The Mission and Purpose of the Museum
The primary mission of the Museum of the Cherokee People is to preserve and perpetuate the history, culture, and stories of the Cherokee people. This is achieved through a diverse range of exhibitions, collections, and programs that showcase the remarkable heritage of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
Preserving the Cherokee Cultural Legacy
The museum’s digital collections archive features a vast array of cultural artifacts, documents, manuscripts, books, journals, photographs, maps, and audio-visual materials that provide a comprehensive look into the Cherokee people’s origins, the Trail of Tears, and their modern-day life.
Paleo and Archaic Artifacts
The museum’s collection includes Paleo artifacts such as stone tools, as well as Archaic artifacts like sophisticated hunting weapons, showcasing the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Cherokee people’s ancestors.
Woodland and Mississippian Artifacts
Visitors can also explore Woodland artifacts, including ceremonial relics like stone pipes, and Mississippian artifacts that reflect the Cherokee’s agricultural efforts and cultural advancements.
Artwork and Photographs
The museum’s collection also features a rich array of artwork and photographs that depict the Cherokee’s origins, the Trail of Tears, and the vibrant contemporary life of the Cherokee people.
Community Learning Opportunities
The Museum of the Cherokee People offers a variety of community learning opportunities for citizens of federally-recognized tribes, both on-site and virtually. These include workshops, courses, and events that combine scholarly content with the voices and experiences of the Cherokee people on the Qualla Boundary.
Practical Information
Location and Hours
- Address: 589 Tsali Boulevard, Cherokee, NC 28719
- Phone: 828-497-3481
- Website: motcp.org
- Hours: 9 am – 5 pm year-round
Admission Fees
- Adults: $12
- Children ages 6-12: $7
- Children 5 & under: Free
- Discounts available for AAA members, AARP members, and active-duty military personnel.
Events and Exhibitions
The Museum of the Cherokee People hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including a lecture series in the spring, the Cherokee Voices Festival in June, and Heritage Day on the second Saturday of every month. These events showcase traditional dances, crafts, and stories from the Cherokee people.
Renovations and Closures
The museum’s main exhibit is currently closed for a multiyear renovation project. However, the Charles George Beloved Veterans Hall and changing exhibition space remain open, offering a discounted rate for visitors during this period.
Awards and Recognition
The Museum of the Cherokee People has received the prestigious 2022 Guardians of Culture and Lifeways International Award from the Association of Tribal Archives, Libraries, and Museums and has been voted one of the Top Ten Best Native American Experiences by USA TODAY.
Additional Resources
Museum Store
The museum store offers a curated selection of goods from Indigenous-owned brands and Cherokee artisans, providing visitors with the opportunity to support and appreciate the work of local artists and craftspeople.
Membership Program
The museum’s membership program provides digital membership cards, exclusive offers, and reciprocal privileges for free admission to museums worldwide, allowing visitors to further engage with the Cherokee culture and heritage.
Conclusion
The Museum of the Cherokee People in the Smoky Mountains is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich history, culture, and traditions of the Cherokee Nation. With its vast collection of artifacts, engaging exhibitions, and community learning opportunities, the museum offers a truly immersive and enlightening experience that celebrates the resilience and enduring spirit of the Cherokee people.