An Ancient People

The Cherokee, and what some anthropologists deem to be their pre-Cherokee ancestors, have lived in the mountains of North Carolina since the end of the last ice age, or about 10,000 BC.  The early Cherokee hunted, fished, and farmed, living in harmony with the indigenous plants and animals and thriving in the rugged mountain landscape.

More than a thousand years ago, these people began developing a distinctly Cherokee way of life.  Balance was at the heart of their culture.  They shared decision-making and endeavored to reach democratic consensus on issues.  Theirs was a matriarchal society, with land being handed down through the women of the tribe.  They were a highly spiritual people with ceremonies and customs that maintained a balance in all things. They called themselves the Ani-Yvwiya, the "Real People," or the "Principal People."

They lived in towns in rectangular log houses and worked extensive, communally-held farms nearby.  Corn, beans, and squash, called the "three sisters," were staples in their diet.  They also raised potatoes and grew peaches.  Each of their towns had a council house for meetings and religious ceremonies.  Perhaps it was their spiritual respect for the land, plants, and animals that turned them into the good stewards they are known to have been.