This book was undertaken by the Vonore Historical Society to preserve the rich cultural heritage of Vonore and its surrounding communities. This area around the Little Tennessee River and the Tellico River is rife with historical and archeological significance. The researchers, writers, and scholars have attempted to trace the continuing drama of this area and its people. The influence of the Little Tennessee and Tellico Rivers and their tributaries in the early settlement and development of the area has been examined. The later effects of railroads and roadways further influenced development and, in some ways, diminished the influence of our water resource.

Vonore's historical heritage has been traced from Cherokee Indian capital to the era of Tellico Lake. The social, cultural, and business institutions have been detailed during this period, and it is hoped the inclusion of individual accounts and personalities has served to humanize the narratives and has provided some human insight into the growth of our region.

With the opening of the area for settlement, people began to settle along the rivers and associated creeks and branches (such as Four Mile Branch, Bat Creek, Island Creek). Communities began to form, and churches, schools, and businesses began to flourish. Vonore became the center of activity with the coming of the railway. The development of improved roadways and automobiles added to the modes of transportation and also served to lessen the influence of the rivers on the area's culture. Now, the area has come full circle, and the Tellico Dam on the Little Tennessee River has created the Tellico Lake causing again a tremendous impact on the area and its inhabitants. Local residents are struggling to attempt to hold on to a part of their heritage - and, ironically, the Cherokee Nation is reclaiming some of its past history with the establishment of the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum.

This book is a part of the struggle to preserve and record Vonore's heritage, and it should prove to be a valuable tool for historians and genealogists.

This hardcover book containing 590 pages including the index may be purchased for $45.00 plus $5.00 shipping and handling. Please submit check or money order to: