About Us

Cherokee Historical is a non-profit organization founded in 1949 to preserve Cherokee history and culture. We are located in the heart of the Cherokee Cultural District in Cherokee, NC.

Cherokee Historical Vision

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

Cherokee Historical Mission

Is to share Cherokee history and culture and to tell the triumphant story of the Eastern Band of Cherokees with the world. We do this through excellence in the arts, education, living history and cultural preservation.

We accomplish our mission through the operation of two cultural attractions. The Oconaluftee Indian Village living history site, and the renowned outdoor drama “Unto These Hills.”

“Unto These Hills” is one of the nation’s foremost outdoor dramas. Debuting in 1950, our show has been performed for over six million visitors.  From the first contact with Europeans to the infamous and tragic Trail of Tears, “Unto These Hills” tells the triumphant story of the Cherokee through the eons.

The Oconaluftee Indian Village transports you back in time to a living, working Cherokee Village of the 18th Century. Here, centuries-old techniques for survival have been passed down from generation to generation and preserved in this living history site.