The Arkansas Band of Cherokee: 1817–1838
Introduction
The story of the Arkansas or Old Settler Cherokee represents an early chapter in the westward journey of the Cherokee Nation — preceding the larger forced removal that followed in the 1830s. While the main body of the Nation eventually traveled farther west, this group set roots early in Arkansas and built a distinct community under unique challenges.
Early Migration and Settlement
Following negotiations that culminated in the Treaty of 1817, many Cherokee voluntarily moved west and were granted land in present-day Arkansas. These early emigrants were primarily from the more traditional and conservative hunter segment of Cherokee society. They hoped to maintain their ancestral way of life in a new region, away from growing external pressures and cultural change.
However, the land where they settled was also claimed by the Osage Nation, which led to ongoing conflict and attacks for more than two decades. Relations remained tense, with periodic violence affecting both communities.
Despite opposition from eastern leadership — who feared recognition of a western group would encourage the relocation of the entire Cherokee Nation — the U.S. government granted official protection and support, and emigration continued through the late 1810s.
Missionary Influence and Leadership
In 1818, Principal Chief Tollunteeskee invited missionaries from the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions to establish a mission among the western Cherokee. In response, Reverend Cephas Washburn and Reverend Alfred Finney founded Dwight Mission near Illinois Creek in spring 1820. The mission was named in honor of Yale President Timothy Dwight, a pioneer supporter of mission work.
After Tollunteeskee’s death, his brother John Jolly became principal chief. Jolly, who relocated from Tennessee in 1818, played a foundational leadership role for the Arkansas band.
Life in Arkansas
When naturalist Thomas Nuttall visited in 1819, he described the western settlements as thriving farms and homes blending traditional and European styles — indicating a community in transition toward stability and productivity. At that time, the Arkansas Cherokee population was estimated to be around 1,500.
Conflict continued despite treaties, and occasional support from eastern warriors strengthened the western band during skirmishes.
Adopting Writing and Law
The visit of Sequoya — the Cherokee inventor of the syllabary — brought literacy and cultural innovation to the Arkansas Cherokee. Through his efforts, the Cherokee began to adopt written language and expanded education within the community.
At the same time, traditional beliefs such as witchcraft were being reevaluated. In 1824, Cherokee leaders enacted laws criminalizing witchcraft accusations, signaling broader legal and cultural change influenced by new leadership and missionary presence.
Land Negotiations, Boundaries, and Relocation
The Treaty of 1817 called for a separate census of the eastern and western Cherokee and promised annuities and clearly defined boundaries. Delays, survey problems, and Osage objections delayed implementation. Some Cherokee left for Texas or spread across other regions.
By 1828, U.S. negotiators successfully convinced Cherokee representatives to exchange the Arkansas tract for a new seven-million-acre territory farther west, with rights to a “perpetual outlet” extending as far west as U.S. jurisdiction permitted. Later treaties in 1833 confirmed these boundaries and established the foundation of what became the Cherokee Nation in Indian Territory.
Legacy
Although many Arkansas Band Cherokee initially resisted additional land exchanges, subsequent agreements underscored growing pressure from the U.S. government and increasing movement toward full removal for all Cherokee. The experiences of the Arkansas Band foreshadowed later chapters in Cherokee history, including the Trail of Tears, which dramatically reshaped the Nation.
Notes & Citations
- Much of this history draws on historical documentation of early Cherokee western migration and settlement, reflecting evolving relations with the United States, Osage Nation, and internal Cherokee leadership.