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Trail of Tears State Park commemorates a tragedy in American history, but it also stands as tribute to a later generosity by southeastern Missourians.
In response to pressure from white settlers, President Andrew Jackson in 1830 authorized the removal of the Cherokees from North Carolina, Georgia and Tennessee.
While many left voluntarily, thousands refused. More than 13,000 were forced to march 800 miles to Indian territory in present-day Oklahoma.
During the winter of 1838-39, an endless line of wagons, horsemen and people on foot made the exodus to Oklahoma. One-fourth of them died, hence the name "Trail of Tears."
Among those forced to march were Reverend Jesse Bushyhead and his sister, Nancy. As the group reached the Mississippi River, midwinter ice delayed the crossing. Legend holds that Nancy died following the crossing at Moccasin Springs, within the current park boundary. A monument in the park marks the site that is said to be her grave. The monument is a memorial to all the Cherokee that were forced to march, those who made it and those who did not.
Recognizing the area’s beauty and its historic significance, residents of Cape Giradeau authorized a bond issue in 1956 to buy the land and then gave it to Missouri as a state park. Displays in the visitor center tell the story of the park’s natural and cultural history.
Thirty-five basic campsites are located in the heavily wooded area of the park near Lake Boutin. Ten campsites have electrical hookups and eight more have both electric and sewer at the Mississippi River Campground. Backpackers have use of a primitive campsite, and organized, non-profit groups may use a group campsite.
The Mississippi River yields catfish, perch and carp fishing, while the 20-acre Lake Boutin is stocked with bass, bluegill and catfish. The lake also offers boating and canoeing, plus a sandy beach for swimming. Boating is limited to electric motors.
Numerous picnic sites are spread throughout the park.
The 10-mile Peewah trail is intended for use by hikers, backpackers and equestrians. A two-mile roundtrip hiking trail leads to Shepard’s Point, which overlooks the river and is noted for winter sightings of bald eagles.
The 3,415-acre park preserves the native woodlands much as they appeared to the Cherokee. Mature forests cover much of the park, which is characterized by sharp ridges and steep ravines. Visitors can view white-tailed deer, turkeys, hawks and foxes. The large trees on the bluffs and cliffs along the river are noted as winter roosting sites for bald eagles.
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