Hello everyone, I’m TJ Holland, the Cultural Resources Supervisor for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Today, I’m here to talk about the Snowbird Community and their resistance to removal, focusing on Buffalo Town in the Cheoah Valley.

Cheoah is located in Robbinsville, North Carolina, approximately 40 miles from our reservation in Cherokee. The Snowbird Community is well-known in this region. During the time of removal in the 1830s, Buffalo Town was a significant settlement. This photograph shows a black and green thumb, which marks the location of the Cheoah Valley.

In the 1830s, surveys identified 35 families or individuals living along the river and the surrounding properties. Today, the area looks much different, but the exact spot where the dance house once stood remains significant. George, the town blacksmith and head man, played a crucial role. The army’s interactions with him reflect the resilience of the people of Buffalo Town.

A 1920s reference to the Ocoee District in North Carolina describes it as one of the more traditional areas within the Cherokee Nation. Missionaries had limited influence here, and many residents maintained their traditional practices. George, who did not have a home, was a mountaineer known throughout the region.

Following the Treaty of New Echota in 1835, there was significant unrest. The treaty’s terms were unpopular, and a nonprofit led by John Ross and a rival faction, led by Major Ridge, tried to establish new leadership. During this time, Eddie Jones was arrested simply for reading the treaty’s terms aloud.

In 1837, valuation agents, including James Love and James Hair, came to verify property evaluations. They also gauged the community’s sentiment, finding that many were unwilling to leave the land where their ancestors were buried. This sentiment echoed what we’ve heard from other tribes, as leaving their homeland was deeply distressing.

As the army arrived, there was much anxiety. The army established Fort Montgomery in the spring of 1838, shown here from the northwest. The Cherokees in this area were acutely aware of the atrocities committed during the removal process in Georgia. Many residents of Buffalo Town fled into the mountains, hoping to evade capture.

Colonel John R. Bonner commanded Fort Montgomery. In a letter, he described the precarious situation, noting the possibility of resistance. Upon arrival, he quickly met with the headmen to assess the situation. Despite efforts to maintain peace, tensions remained high.

The Cherokees’ resistance was not just physical; it was also spiritual. They believed deeply in their connection to the land and the Creator. This connection made the thought of leaving their homeland unbearable. Their resistance was an act of preserving their identity and heritage.

During this time, many residents, including the Dickey family, played crucial roles. Jim Dickey, the headman of Buffalo Town, maintained traditional beliefs and resisted removal efforts. Despite the harsh conditions and constant threat, the community remained resilient.

The Trail of Tears walk, an annual commemoration, reminds us of the hardships faced by our ancestors. This photograph shows the narrow, rugged paths that they were forced to travel. The Dickey family, among others, faced tremendous challenges but managed to preserve their heritage.

Jim Dickey, along with his brother and other family members, played a significant role in maintaining the community’s traditions. Despite the removal efforts, they stayed in the Cheoah Valley, ensuring that future generations would remember and honor their heritage.

In conclusion, the Cheoah Valley and Buffalo Town symbolize the resilience and strength of the Cherokee people. Despite the efforts to remove them, they held on to their land, traditions, and identity. Today, we continue to honor their legacy and remember their sacrifices.

Thank you.