In 1937, Mingus Mill was one of the first buildings restored as an historic structure in the newly created Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The labor for the restoration work was provided by the Civilian Conservation Corps, a depression-era public works program. Mingus Mill is one of more than 80 buildings that are maintained as historic structures by Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Mingus Mill is located about two miles from Cherokee Indian Reservation, Cherokee, NC. [Photo Tour]

Reshaping Cherokee History
"When potter Joel Queen grinds mussel shells and massages the white flecks into lumps of moist, brown clay, he’s molding the past.

The shell-tempered clay technique, recreated recently by the Cherokee Potters Guild of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, requires burning and crushing the mussels until they’re ashlike." [More]

Maggie Valley is Only A Few Miles from Cherokee
Deep within the Smoky Mountains is a valley unlike you've ever seen. Far from big cities and beyond the expectations of its visitors, Maggie Valley is a place where nature offers its best and fun vacations begin.

The Smoky Mountains are the oldest on earth and provide wonderful experiences at every turn. Dominated by mile high peaks, lush valleys, rushing rivers, and more species of birds, plants, animals, and tree than anywhere else in the world, these mountains are nothing less than exhilirating. Quaint shops, respected artisans, parks, fishing lakes, historical sites, great entertainment are all part of Maggie Valley.