Fort Cass

Fort Cass was a military installation that stretched across present-day Charleston and the surrounding countryside. The fort sat south of the Hiwassee River along a main route and functioned as a holding point for thousands of people.

The location started in 1819 as a federal administrative center for Indian affairs before becoming a military post in 1835. This shift reflected changing government policies toward indigenous peoples.

The site marks where thousands of Cherokee were held in nine separate camps during summer 1838. Walking through the area, visitors can grasp the scale of confinement before the forced journey westward began.

The site covers a wide area best explored on foot along the landscape near the river. Wear comfortable shoes and bring weather protection since the terrain spans several miles.

The fort contained nine separate camps where people were confined under harsh conditions. This camp layout was designed to manage the mass movement that would follow.