As stated in the previous blog/bucket list post, this post will focus on iconic Native American sites in the state of Georgia that are worth a visit! Maybe some of you have already been to these, and maybe some of you haven’t, but here is your chance to get a glimpse into 5 different locations. From the mountains and hills of the former Cherokee Nation down to Central Georgia and all the way to the Georgia flat lands, and from beautiful historic homes and structures to beautiful mounds, there’s a variation of experiences that each of these locations will give you. Just as a note, I have only actually been to one of these and it will have several photos that I took, while the others will only have one photo. Now let’s get down to them and break it all down!

Chief Vann House State Historic Site

The Chief Vann House in Chatsworth, Georgia, a beautiful 2-story brick “mansion”(At least for those days) was built in 1804 and is a stunning example of the wealth and influence of the Cherokee Nation before their forced removal in the 1830s. The brick home is actually the first built by the Cherokee! Built by James Vann, a prominent Cherokee leader, the house served as his personal residence and the center of Cherokee life in the area. The house is a grand example of Cherokee architecture, blending European and Native American styles. Some key decorative highlights of the home include the original wainscoting, the door jambs, and the mantles. The doors AKA “Christian doors” are also a decorative highlight, as well as the carved staircase that leads visitors up to the 2nd level story of the home. Today, visitors can tour the beautifully restored mansion and learn about the life of Vann, who was known for his progressive leadership and efforts to preserve Cherokee culture. The grounds also include the exhibits on the Cherokee removal and their history. While at the Chief Vann House, take a stroll through the surrounding area and explore the stunning mountain views that were once the heart of the Cherokee homeland. The site is closed Monday-Wednesday and operates Thursday-Saturday from 9 A.M.-5 P.M. and on Sunday from 1 P.M.-5 P.M.. This is one that I have passed by several times on my way to and from the Chattanooga and Dalton areas, but have yet to visit, and now I have an itch to go!

 

 

Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site

The Etowah Indian Mounds, located in Cartersville, Georgia, is one of the most significant prehistoric sites in the southeastern United States. In fact, they are the 2nd tallest Mississippian mounds in the world! These mounds were built by the Mississippian culture between 1000 and 1550 AD. The site includes six earthen mounds, a plaza, and a village area, serving as a ceremonial and political center for the Mississippian people. Today, visitors can explore the site via a self-guided tour, where they can climb the largest mound for panoramic views of the surrounding area. The Etowah Museum on-site showcases artifacts from the site, including pottery, tools, and jewelry, providing an insight into the daily life and culture of the Mississippian people. It’s a place that you have the chance to reflect on the rich Native American heritage of Georgia while exploring this ancient and sacred ground. As someone who has made the visit here myself, I will give you my honest take and feelings on my experience. While I do still recommend going and feel that it was cool to see these mounds up close, I do feel as if my experience could have been improved with a few updates and with more park rangers on duty. With this said, and if I am not mistaken, the site has since seen some updates and improvements since my visit back in October 2021. The site is open to the public 7 days a week from 9 A.M.-5 P.M..

 

 

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, located in Macon, Georgia, is said to be an essential site for anyone interested in the deep Native American history of the region. This park preserves over 10,000 years of continuous Native American history, from the ancient Paleo-Indians to the Mississippian culture. The park features several mounds, including the Great Temple Mound, which served as a ceremonial center for the Mississippians. Visitors can hike through the park’s trails, explore archaeological sites, and visit the Ocmulgee National Monument Visitor Center to view exhibits showcasing artifacts discovered in the area. The park is also home to a reconstructed Earth Lodge, which gives visitors a glimpse into the sacred ceremonies held at the site. Today, the park continues to be an important location for cultural preservation and a place to reflect on the Native American contributions to the history of Georgia. And just in case you didn’t already know, this park just recently transitioned from a state park to a national park, making it Georgia’s newest national park! I have had the opportunity to visit here, but unfortunately, I still haven’t, and it is now on my bucket list! The park is open 7 days a week, from 9 A.M.-5 P.M..

 

 

New Echota State Historic Site

This is a place that I have wanted to visit and go to since my 8th grade Georgia History class! New Echota, located near Calhoun, Georgia, was once the capital of the Cherokee Nation from 1825 until the forced removal of the Cherokee in the 1830s. This historic site commemorates the cultural and political hub of the Cherokee people during a pivotal moment in their history. Today, visitors can tour the restored buildings(And per my research, there are a total of 12 buildings to see), including the Council House, Supreme Court building, and the homes of prominent Cherokee leaders. The site also features a museum with exhibits detailing the tragic Trail of Tears and the Cherokee resistance to forced relocation. The grounds are said to be beautifully preserved, offering a powerful setting for reflection on the resilience of the Cherokee Nation. New Echota is a place to connect with the legacy of the Cherokee and learn about their history and culture during a time of upheaval. The site is closed on Mondays and is open Tuesday-Saturday from 9 A.M.-5 P.M. and on Sunday from 1 P.M.-5 P.M..

 

 

Kolomoki Mounds State Park

Located in Blakely, Georgia, the Kolomoki Mounds State Park is home to some of the most impressive Native American mounds in the Southeast. The site was once a thriving center of the Woodland period (around 350-750 AD), and today, it includes several earthen mounds, burial sites, and a village area. Visitors can explore the park’s walking trails, climb the mounds for a stunning view of the surrounding landscape, and visit the Kolomoki Museum to view artifacts from the site, including pottery, tools, and jewelry. The park also features a picnic area, making it a perfect spot for a day trip to experience Georgia’s Native American history in a peaceful, scenic setting. Kolomoki Mounds State Park offers an opportunity to reflect on Georgia’s ancient past while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. This is another location that I have not been to, but if I do go, I do know and recommend to others not to go in the summer during that hot, unbearable South Georgia heat when the gnats are out! Instead, try winter, late fall, or early spring instead! The park is open 7 days a week, from 8 A.M.-5 P.M..