Near Birchwood in Meigs County, Tennessee — The American South (East South Central)
Blythe's Ferry
The first two detachments that approached Blythe's Ferry in late August 1838 stopped because of drought and hot weather. The first detachment camped on both sides of the river. The second group camped four miles back of the Ferry. While encamped, contractors provided rations of sugar, coffee, salt, and soap. The Cherokee added to the rations by hunting and fishing.
Weather conditions improved by early October and the detachments began crossing the Tennessee River. Detachments continued to cross at Blythe's Ferry until mid-November. They traveled westward with heavy hearts. Some deserted. Most, however, continued somberly trekking westward.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Government & Politics • Native Americans • Wars, US Indian. In addition, it is included in the Trail of Tears series list. A significant historical month for this entry is October 1838.
Location. 35° 24.423′ N, 85° 0.383′ W. Marker is near Birchwood, Tennessee, in Meigs County. Marker can be reached from Blythe Ferry Road, 2 miles north of Hiwassee Highway, on the right when traveling north. Marker is located at the Cherokee Removal Memorial Park. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Birchwood TN 37308, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. "Orders No. 25" (here, next to this marker); "To Learn and not Forget" (here, next to this marker); "Your Fate is Decided" (here, next to this marker); "Chains of Friendship" (here, next to this marker); "Given by the Great Spirit above" (here, next to this marker); "A Desire to Possess" (here, next to this marker); "Not a treaty at all" (here, next to this marker); "Forced from this country" (here, next to this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Birchwood.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on January 7, 2011, by Lee Hattabaugh of Capshaw, Alabama. This page has been viewed 702 times since then and 27 times this year. Last updated on April 8, 2015, by J. Makali Bruton of Accra, Ghana. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on January 7, 2011, by Lee Hattabaugh of Capshaw, Alabama. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.