About

Cherokee Historical Association is a Native-led nonprofit organization operating on the Qualla Boundary in Cherokee, NC. Our mission is to share Cherokee history, culture, and the triumphant story of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians with the world. We do this through excellence in the arts, education, living history, and cultural preservation.

Our vision is to be recognized as a national treasure that tells our Cherokee story through many offerings which are authentic, educational, sustainable, and enhance public awareness of human rights.

We operate Oconaluftee Indian Village living history museum and Unto These Hills outdoor drama.

Oconaluftee Indian Village is an open air living history museum modeled after a 1700s era Cherokee village. Visitors take a guided tour through the Village and see demonstrations of traditional Cherokee crafts such as pottery and beadwork. We also have social dance demonstrations, storytelling, and battle reenactments.

Unto These Hills is the 3rd oldest outdoor drama in the country and has been seen by over 6 million people since opening in 1950. The play tells the story of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians from first contact with European colonizers through the removal west on the infamous Trail of Tears.