On October 23, twenty-five “friends” headed out for a day of Cherokee culture. We met Lianna Costantino, our guide for the day, in Sylva. Our first stop was the Judaculla Rock in Jackson County. This ancient soapstone rock is covered with drawings thought to predate modern Cherokee culture. While Lianna told us the story behind the legend of Juthcullah we all pondered what the drawings actually mean. Some thought they were a recording of history while a few thought the rock could be a map.
Our next stop was the pavilion at Mark Watson park where we enjoyed a deeeelishous picnic lunch prepared by Cathy Nell and Kathy Figiel. Everything was prepared and packaged with love!
On our short drive to the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, Lianna told us stories of the Cherokee and explained their language. In the museum she explained many details about the exhibits that were not explained elsewhere. On our way back to Sylva Lianna told us more Cherokee stories and answered all our questions.
We are pleased with the support and enthusiasm we received for our first SFF field trip. Although the cost of the bus kept us from breaking even, this professional touch from Young Transportation made us feel special and their driver, Rodney, made us feel safe. At the SFF board of directors meeting in November we will be discussing plans for our next event. Stay tuned!
