The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Tribal Council wants to rename Clingmans Dome, which is the highest peak in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Before the mountain was part of the National Park, the Cherokee called it Kuwahi, which means “mulberry place”. Tribal medicine men would journey there to pray for guidance.
The peak became known as Clingmans Dome in 1859, named after North Carolina Senator Thomas Lanier Clingman. Supporters of restoring its original name believe it will help keep Cherokee culture and history alive.
The Tribal Council plans to submit paperwork to the U.S. Board on Geographic Names by the end of the year.