ControversialCrossingsProgram

Date: March 30, 2015
Contact: Kim Coons, 423-752-5213 x139

Controversial Crossings: Cherokee Removal on Moccasin Bend

Fort Oglethorpe, GA:Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park invites the public to participate in a 90-minute historical hike along the Brown's Ferry Federal Road at Moccasin Bend National Archeological District on Saturday, April 11 at 2 pm. Participants should take the Manufacturer's Road exit off Highway 27 and drive west, following the "Special Event" signs to the Brown's Ferry Federal Road parking area.

Between June and October 1838, the road winding across the neck of Moccasin Bend toward Brown's Ferry became a passage through which at least 1,700 Cherokee immigrated west. Two distinctive detachments of Cherokee used this route –one forcibly removed from their homes by the military and the other a pro-Treaty of New Echota party bound for the same western lands. Why did these groups travel separately, and what were the ramifications for the Cherokee who supported the treaty that ceded their land to the United States? This program will explore these questions and more as visitors hike to the Tennessee River along portions of the historic Brown's Ferry Federal Road.

As a reminder, comfortable, supportive footwear, appropriate clothing for the weather and water are recommended for this program.

For more information about programs at Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, contact the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center at [phone], the Lookout Mountain Battlefield Visitor Center at [phone], or visit the park's website at www.nps.gov/chch.

www.nps.gov

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