About New Echota State Historic Site
New Echota State Historic Site, located at the headwaters of the Oostanaula River in Georgia, preserves the capital of the Cherokee Nation from 1825 to 1838. It was here that the Cherokee established a sophisticated self-governing society, including the first Native American newspaper, a court system whose case reached the U.S. Supreme Court, and the site where the Treaty of New Echota was signed, leading to the forced removal known as the Trail of Tears. Today, visitors can explore 12 original and reconstructed buildings, such as the Council House, Court House, Print Shop, Samuel Worcester’s home, and an 1805 store, along with period outbuildings like smokehouses and corn cribs.
The visitor center features interpretive exhibits and a 17-minute film, with souvenirs and books available for purchase. Nature trails wind to New Town Creek and a small beaver pond. Leashed pets are permitted on historic site trails but are not allowed in buildings.