TRAIL OF TEARS

Interstate 57 Rest Area-Northbound
Anna, IL 62906

HISTORY

Trail of Tears Tourist Information Center was named after the "forced march of the Indians." In the winter of 1838-39, the Cherokee Indians camped at the location of the rest area. The Cherokee Indians were a civilized nation, living in Cherokee, North Carolina. President Jackson declared his full support of the removal of the Cherokee from their homes to a reservation in Oklahoma. An armed force of 7, 000 soldiers forced 15, 000 Cherokee to march nearly 1, 000 miles to the reservation. This forced march was known as "The Trail of Tears," due to the many hardships, sorrow, and death of 4, 000 Cherokee.

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