History program traces Cherokee ties to slavery

“Deeper Into Slavery,” a 60- minute program at the Moccasin Bend National Archaeological District on Saturday, March 4, will explore the history of the Brown’s Ferry Federal Road Trace.

According to historians with Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, t he Federal Road on Moccasin Bend was originally used as a Cherokee trading road before the Europeans arrived in the area. Then it was used as Europeans traded their goods for the deer skins that were coveted in their native Europe. The European goods received in the trades made life easier for the indigenous peoples, but their growing dependence came at a price.

“As t he skin t rade diminished, American Indians took more to the European way and started trading slaves to get those goods in order to make their lives easier,” says a news release from event organizers. “As part of the Trail of Tears, the Federal Road, crossing Moccasin Bend, witnessed many African- American slaves owned by the Cherokee travel over it and watched as American Indians traveled deeper into slavery.”

The program starts at 2 p. m. Participants should take the Manufacturers Road exit off Highway 27 and drive west, following the Special Event signs to the Brown’s Ferry Federal Road parking area.

Comfortable, supportive footwear, appropriate clothing for the weather and water are recommended. Portable chairs are welcome.

For more information, contact the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center at 706- 866-9241, the Lookout Mountain Battlefield Visitor Center at 423-821-7786 or visit the park’s website, www.nps. gov/chch.