nside the museum visitors set their own pace. One of the first presentations
informs guests about how the Cherokee came to this region, how much
territory they once claimed and how, through various treaties, lost
much of their original lands.
Throughout the spacious facility, Indian artifacts
from throughout North America are displayed along with those whose
makers were Cherokee. Farming utensils, weapons of hunting and war,
clothing, copies of the first photographs taken of the Cherokee
people, pottery, baskets and hosts of other historical items are
attractively and educationally displayed.
A small theater shows visitors the Cherokee
of today through a brief but highly informative video presentation.
It highlights the progress which has been realized in recent years
on the Cherokee Indian Reservation (Qualla Boundary) through many
innovative ideas and the determination of tribal leaders and the
members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
The museum is well-known for its offering of
Cherokee books and hand-crafted items available in its gift shop
area. A large art gallery adjacent to the shop attractively displays
art and photographs by Indian and non-Indian artists.
During late 1997 and early 1998, the Museum
will undergo a major renovation. One of the planned new exhibits
is a "walk" along the Trail of Tears plus many other interactive
exhibits.
Open daily except New Years, Thanksgiving and
Christmas, the museum is located on US 441 at Drama Road. An admission
fee of $4.00 for adults and $2.00 for children six through 12 is
charged. Group tour and general information may be obtained by phoning
704-497-3481.
