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A journey through Cherokee history through the secret life of rivers

The Holston River flows through Southwest Virginia and East Tennessee. The river was formerly known by the Cherokee and early settlers as the Cherokee River or Hogoheegee.
The Holston River flows through Southwest Virginia and East Tennessee. The river was formerly known by the Cherokee and early settlers as the Cherokee River or Hogoheegee.
The Water Carriers by Gregory Smithers
The Water Carriers by Gregory Smithers

The history of the Cherokee people is an epic story of survival and creativity. Their history connects us to indigenous environmental knowledge, and the future of a continent. Gregory Smithers, professor of history at Virginia Commonwealth University, chronicles Cherokee history through their reverence to rivers. His new book is called The Water Carriers and he’ll discuss it tomorrow night in Harrisonburg at Pale Fire Brewing for WMRA’s Books & Brews. Gregory spoke with WMRA's Chris Boros about Cherokee lives on rivers.

WMRA's Books & Brews is made possible thanks to our series sponsor, Gaines Group Architects.

Gregory Smithers
Gregory Smithers

Chris Boros is WMRA’s Program Director and local host from 10am-4pm Monday-Friday.