After centuries, the highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains is reclaiming its Native American name, Kuwohi. This isn’t just about a change on the map—it’s a cultural restoration, a nod to the land’s true heritage that’s long overdue.
A Legacy Hidden in Plain Sight
For years, tourists flocked to Clingmans Dome, unaware they were scaling a mountain whose identity had been eroded by history. But now, thanks to local efforts, Kuwohi will once again be known by the name given by the Cherokee people, its original stewards.
Kuwohi: “The Mulberry Place”
Kuwohi loosely translates to “the mulberry place” in Cherokee, a name deeply rooted in the tribe’s culture and history. The renaming signals a broader recognition of Indigenous contributions to this region—something activists have pushed for over decades.
The Name Clingmans Dome: A Colonial Artifact
Originally named for Confederate General Thomas Clingman, the former moniker was a reminder of a troubled past. The shift back to Kuwohi underscores the ongoing conversation about how America’s landmarks reflect its complicated history.
A Meaningful Step
Restoring Kuwohi’s name represents a meaningful step in honoring the original inhabitants of this land, the Cherokee people. This change highlights a growing recognition of Native voices and their cultural significance in the region. For the Cherokee and other Indigenous communities, this restoration is not just symbolic but an important part of preserving and respecting their heritage.
Not Just Symbolism
While some may view it as just a name, for the Cherokee Nation, the renaming of Kuwohi holds deeper meaning. It signifies a profound respect for Indigenous identity and the rich stories embedded in the landscape. The restoration of this name is an act of cultural revival, reinforcing the enduring presence and significance of the Cherokee people in the region.
Changing Minds, Changing Maps
The U.S. Board on Geographic Names approved the change in early 2024, marking a victory for Native advocates and local historians alike. Updated maps will reflect the new name, slowly phasing out the old.
A Tourist Attraction with a Twist
The Smoky Mountains are one of America’s most visited national parks, drawing millions each year. Now, with the restoration of Kuwohi, visitors can connect with the land’s original culture and history, adding depth to their experience.
Pushback and Progress
Of course, not everyone is thrilled. Some argue that the change is unnecessary, a disruption to tradition. But for the Cherokee and many others, it’s about reclaiming lost heritage and ensuring history isn’t defined solely by colonial legacies.
The Bigger Picture: Nationwide Name Changes
Kuwohi’s restoration is part of a broader movement to return Native American names to geographical landmarks across the U.S. In the last few years, mountains, rivers, and parks have been renamed to honor their Indigenous roots.
The change reinforces that these lands were stewarded by Indigenous communities long before colonization, and this recognition helps ensure their stories continue to be told.
Respecting the Land’s History
Kuwohi isn’t just a peak; it’s a testament to the endurance of Cherokee culture. For every hiker, camper, and explorer who sets foot on it, there’s now a chance to understand the deep connection between the land and its first inhabitants.
What’s Next for Kuwohi
As Kuwohi reclaims its place in the Smoky Mountains, many hope this is just the beginning of a wider recognition of Native American heritage in national parks across the country.
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Featured Image Credit: Pexels / ALTEREDSNAPS.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
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