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Museum · Cherokee, North Carolina
Museum of the Cherokee People
Museum of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, opened in 1948, about the history, language and living culture of the three federally recognized Cherokee groups.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Museum of the Cherokee People
The Museum of the Cherokee People was established in 1948 and is one of the oldest tribal museums in the United States. In 2023 it changed its name from Museum of the Cherokee Indian to the current name, also written in the Cherokee syllabary, to emphasize that it tells the story of a living people.
The galleries cover thousands of years of Cherokee presence in the southern Appalachian Mountains, with archaeological objects, clothing, basketry and pottery. One section deals with the syllabary created by Sequoyah in the 19th century and the forced removal of much of the people westward, the Trail of Tears, in the 1830s, when a group remained in the mountains.
The museum also showcases the work of contemporary Cherokee artists and has an archive and programs about the language.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About one and a half to two hours.
Best time
During the day. Confirm opening hours before you go.
How to get there
It is on Tsali Boulevard, in downtown Cherokee, about 3 km from the Oconaluftee visitor center.
Tip
Combine the visit with the Qualla Arts and Crafts cooperative across the street, which sells works by Cherokee artists.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Museum of the Cherokee People
What does the Museum of the Cherokee People have?
The history, language and art of the Cherokees, from archaeology to Sequoyah’s syllabary and contemporary art.
Is the Museum of the Cherokee People the former Museum of the Cherokee Indian?
Yes; the name changed in 2023.
How long does a visit to the Museum of the Cherokee People take?
One and a half to two hours.