Press release

from the WNC Historical Association

The Western North Carolina Historical Association has organized a tour to Cherokee, NC, to explore the history and the culture of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians on Saturday, September 15, 2012. The tour, designed to be informational and educational will begin with a brief meeting with the Principal Chief of the Eastern Band. We will visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, hear a presentation by a tribal member on the oral history of the people, enjoy a traditional Cherokee dinner (lunch), followed by an overview of Cherokee culture and a lecture on some of the contemporary issues facing the Eastern Band. A visit to the Oconaluftee Indian Village and a visit to the Annual Southeast Tribes Festival will round out the day.

"We planned the day so that our group will have an in-depth educational experience, more than an individual might have as a regular tourist," said Sharon Gruber, Director of WNCHA. She continued, "We are fortunate to be going during the Annual Southeast Tribes Festival which promises to be a highlight of the day."

The tour will depart the Smith-McDowell House Museum at 7:30 am and return by approximately 6:30 pm to Asheville. Travel to and from Cherokee will be on a modern motorcoach.

Tickets for the tour are $75.00 per person for WNCHA members and members of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UNC-A. The fee for non-members is $90.00 per person.

Reservations are required. To make a reservation or to receive additional information, please email smh@wnchistory.org or call 828-253-9231.