Yesterday, the US Board of Geographic Names approved a proposal from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) to restore the name of the tallest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to Kuwohi, the Cherokee name for the mountain.
The change is the result of a years-long effort from EBCI members Lavita Hill and Mary Crowe and a proposal from EBCI Principal Chief Michell Hicks submitted in January.
The mountain has always been known as Kuwohi (ᎫᏬᎯ in Cherokee syllabary) to the Cherokee People; the name translates to “mulberry place.” After a survey in 1859, geographer Arnold Guyot renamed the mountain after Confederate general Thomas Clingman — but now, the Kuwohi name is returned.
New signage and online materials reflecting the change are in progress. Learn more about the name restoration.
