Cherokee Park Observes Tree Dedication In Honor Of Rita Vital

  • Tuesday, July 12, 2016
Friends, local guests and dignitaries gathered to witness the dedication of a 250-year-old red oak stump in honor of Rita Vital
Friends, local guests and dignitaries gathered to witness the dedication of a 250-year-old red oak stump in honor of Rita Vital

Friends of the Cherokee Removal Memorial Park and local guests and dignitaries gathered July 8, 2016, to witness the dedication of a 250-year-old red oak stump on the original Trail of Tears path besides old Blythe Ferry Road in Birchwood.

The stump – the remains of a tree recently destroyed by heavy winds – held significance to the early history of Meigs County; its presence stood witness to the removal of 9,000 Cherokee at Blythe Ferry on the Tennessee River, and was standing when a young Sam Houston lived in the area on Hiwassee Island.

The park dedicated the stump in honor of Rita Vital, park enthusiast and history lover, and to the mothers and women who bore countless sacrifices during the Cherokee removal.

“I am honored to be among the many mothers who are making a great difference in our community,” shared Mrs. Vital. Friends, relatives and members of the community were present as she received the dedication.

“It was wonderful to have three generations of friends here that meant a lot in my life,” she said.  

The ceremony began with a prayer of cleansing performed in the Cherokee tradition, followed by remarks and acknowledgements by Tom Morgan, Friends of the Cherokee Removal Memorial Park president. Guests then witnessed the unveiling of a stone monument formed in the shape of the state of Tennessee from underneath a traditional Cherokee craftsman blanket.

Meigs County Mayor Bill James, County Commissioner Billy Ogle and representatives of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency were among local officials and community members present at the ceremony.

“This park serves as an important part of our heritage,” said Mayor James. “The many contributions made to Cherokee Removal Memorial Park is a great example of stewardship, as we encourage the preservation of the history, culture and ecosystem of Meigs County and surrounding communities.”

Dennis Tumlin, Rhea County executive director of economic development, says he understands the importance of environmental conservation. Mr. Tumlin says many towns have witnessed great economic growth by way of expanding ecotourism opportunities.

“We have just as much heritage and history,” he said, stating Rhea and Hamilton counties are “perfectly poised” to benefit from nature preservation of vast “under-protected and under-funded land” throughout Meigs County.

Cherokee Removal Memorial Park – open all year from dawn until dusk – is located at Blythe Ferry in Birchwood along the state of Tennessee Tanasi Trail. The 29-acre park is operated by the Meigs County General Government, and is home to monuments and kiosks chronicling the history of the Cherokee people and Meigs County. The park’s visitor center features historical displays, a Cherokee genealogy library and a gift shop. The park is host to local educational programs, Native American activities related to the Trail of Tears, and civic and recreational meetings. 

Tom Morgan, Friends of the Cherokee Removal Memorial Park president, with Rita Vital, park enthusiast and history lover
Tom Morgan, Friends of the Cherokee Removal Memorial Park president, with Rita Vital, park enthusiast and history lover
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