Welcome to the Lost Cities of Tanasi and Chota, a voyage into the heart of Cherokee history nestled in the serene landscapes of Vonore, Tennessee. As you stand here, imagine the bustling life of these vibrant communities that existed long before modern roads and buildings. The names Tanasi and Chota evoke a time when these cities were the epicenters of Cherokee culture and governance.
Let’s turn back the clock to the early 18th century. The Cherokee, a people with deep roots in the Southeastern United States, had established Tanasi and Chota as major centers of trade, politics, and culture. Tanasi, in fact, is believed to be the namesake for the state of Tennessee. This was a place where the Cherokee people thrived, a hub where paths converged, and decisions that shaped the fate of the nation were made.
By the mid-1700s, Chota had risen to prominence as the de facto capital of the Cherokee Nation. It was here that the powerful Cherokee leaders, known as the War and Peace Chiefs, convened in the council house, a large structure that stood atop an earthen mound. This was no ordinary building; it was the heart of political life, where leaders like Oconostota, a notable Cherokee chief, deliberated crucial matters involving war, peace, and alliances.
Chota’s influence was recognized far beyond the Cherokee lands. In 1761, a peace treaty was signed with British forces here, marking a significant moment in Cherokee-British relations. The treaty was a testament to the strategic importance of Chota as a place of diplomacy and negotiation.
Yet, these cities were not just centers of political activity. They were vibrant communities enriched by the traditions and daily lives of the Cherokee people. Ceremonies like the Green Corn Ceremony, central to Cherokee spiritual life, brought people together in celebration and gratitude for the harvest. The mounds themselves, remnants of the Mississippian culture, served as both ceremonial sites and symbols of the enduring connection between the Cherokee and their ancestors.
The late 18th century brought tumultuous changes. The Treaty of Hopewell in 1785 marked the beginning of significant land cessions, altering the landscape and the destiny of the Cherokee people. Despite these challenges, the legacy of Tanasi and Chota lives on. These sites remain a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Cherokee Nation.
Today, visitors to the Lost Cities of Tanasi and Chota can reflect on the rich tapestry of history and culture that these sites represent. They stand as reminders of a vibrant past and the enduring spirit of a people who have shaped, and continue to shape, the history of the American Southeast.
