Noquisiyi (later interpreted as Nikwasi) means star place and was a Cherokee town

situated in present-day Franklin, North Carolina.

Though its exact age remains unknown, Noquisiyi appears on maps as early as 1544, and British colonial records first mention it by name in 1718.

At the heart of Noquisyi on the banks of the Little Tennessee River, the town's meeting hall once towered over the landscape, built atop the mound which was formed by Cherokee women carrying baskets of soil to that location. Today, Noquisiyi Mound, the settlement's only surviving landmark, rises as the gateway to Franklin.

Learn more

Cultural Corridor
Project Map

Cowee Mound Kiosk

Kiosk Sign Being Placed at Noquisiyi Mound

Unveiling Cowee Mound Signage

PC: Scott McKie B.P./One Feather Photo

Cowee Mound Kiosk

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A Letter from Executive Director:
Elaine Eisenbraun

Noquisiyi Cultural District Plan

Nikwasi Initiative has spent the last several months working with Equinox to develop the Noquisiyi Cultural District. Together we have held Community forums, conducted surveys, and talked with key stakeholders to come up with a comprehensive plan. Click here to view the full report.

Apple Trail Grand Opening & Dedication!

Friday April 28th, 4:00 PM

An Arbor Day Celebration of Apple Trees and Cherokee Farmers!

Parking for the grand opening of the Barbra McRae Cherokee Heritage apple Trail will be at the Big Bear Pavilion on the Little Tennessee River Greenway. From the parking area, you will walk upriver to the half-mile marker, the Apple Trail will be on the left. Transportation will be provided for those unable to walk the distance.

Learn more about the trail here.