Walks introduce Trail of Tears road trace on Moccasin Bend

A stretch of roadway with Trail of Tears significance will be unveiled Saturday, Oct. 26, in the Moccasin Bend National Archaeological District.

The rediscovered 0.6-mile road trace was the route to the Brown's Ferry river crossing on Moccasin Bend during the forced removal of Cherokee and Creek Indians to Indian Territory (modern-day Oklahoma). The road trace has been cleared of vegetation, and interpretive signs have been placed along the route.

Grand-opening ceremonies will begin at 10 a.m., followed at 11 a.m. by a guided interpretive walk along the trace to the Tennessee River.

This 90-minute ranger-guided walk will discuss the importance of the Brown's Ferry Federal Road property related to Indian Removal of 1838.

Buses will be available starting at 9:15 a.m. to transport visitors to the historic site from the parking area at the Friends of Moccasin Bend offices, 175 Hamm Road.

The guided walk will be repeated at 1 and 3 p.m. Saturday, as well as at noon and 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 27. Shuttle buses will be provided both days.

2013 marks the 175th anniversary of the Trail of Tears.

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