Chota/Tanasi

Then - Throughout much of the 18th century, the Overhill Towns of Tanasi and Chota were important destinations on the Overhill Trading Path. At different periods they were recognized as capitals of the Cherokee Nation --beloved towns where Cherokees gathered for important councils and religious events. When Virginia militia invaded the Overhill country in 1776, they spared Chota, but during the expedition of 1780 Chota, Tanasi, and the other Overhill Towns in the lower Little Tennessee River Valley were destroyed. The Cherokee Nation ceded the old Overhill Towns in 1819, and by 1823 the few Cherokee families who remained at Chota were driven out by white settlers. Note: Tennessee takes its name from Tanasi.

Now - After the waters of Tellico Lake covered the sites of Chota and Tanasi in 1979, memorials to commemorate these important Overhill Cherokee towns were placed at the edge of the lake near the site of each town. From the museum follow Hwy 360 to the junction of Hwy 360/Hwy 455. Follow Hwy 455 for about 5 miles, and then turn left onto County Road 461 where you will drive alongside the lake to the memorials.