The Chamber’s Tourism Department was honored, once again, to welcome bike riders from Remember The Removal. 🚴♀️
This annual event commemorates the forced removal of Cherokee people that occurred between 1838-1839. Spanning seven states and 950 miles, riders bike the northern route of the Trail of Tears, stopping at historical sites where the Cherokees traveled during removal.
Did you know that Charleston, TN, used to serve as a gateway to the Cherokee Nation? What once was a thriving Cherokee community became Fort Cass, the military operational headquarters for the entire Cherokee removal. Often known as ground zero for the removal, Charleston is an important stop for riders to visit.
Every year, the Hiwassee River Heritage Center hosts the cyclists for lunch, where the Chamber Vice President of Tourism, Melissa Woody, takes the opportunity to share about Charleston’s deep connection to the Cherokee.
While cyclists are greeted with cheers of encouragement and laughter is shared between community members and riders, the meaning behind this journey is never forgotten.
