Cherokee tribes to rebury remains discovered in Tennessee

Thursday, September 12, 2013  

The three federally-recognized Cherokee tribes will be reburying the remains of 15 ancestors that were uncovered in Tennessee.

Spelunkers accidentally came upon the remains while exploring a cave on property managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority. The federally-owned corporation consulted with several tribes and determined they were culturally affiliated to the Cherokee Nation, the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

The ancestors are due to be repatriated to the tribes later this month. A reburial spot hasn't been determined.

The remains date back about one thousand years.

Get the Story:
Cherokee remains found in Tennessee cave (The Cherokee One Feather 9/12)
Mysterious Ancient Native Remains Found in Remote Cave (Indian Country Today 9/8)