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The Tennessee Overhill takes its name from the Cherokee towns that rested on the western slopes of the Appalachian Mountains, described as being "overhill" from the Lower Cherokee settlements.
The McMinn County Courthouse is a popular tourist stop in this region. The modern day courthouse now stands where the original brick courthouses stood many years ago. This famous location is known for a trial in 1834. Two young Cherokee's lives were held in the balance as they were put on trial here for the suspected murder of Cherokee leader Jack Waller.
The McMinn County Living Heritage Museum is an popular family stop in the Overhill area. The museum holds a Native American exhibit which displays over 100 Native American artifacts. Artifacts include tools, pottery, jewelry, and even models of original Cherokee dwellings.
Another site to see in this area is the Fort Morrow Blockhouse located in Benton. This blockhouse was built on the Federal Road to hold Federal Troops during the Cherokee Removal. This inconspicuous structural remnant is the sole reminder of the military operation that swept the Cherokee Nation from eastern Tennessee.
Other pieces of history that can still be visited today are the Polk County Historical and Genealogical Library, and many famous gravesites. There is much to see and learn about the great Cherokee Nation in this region of Southeast Tennessee.
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