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Benton, TN
Nancy Ward Gravesite
US
411 and Old Federal Road
Benton, TN
Nancy Ward was the last “Beloved Woman” of the eastern band of Cherokee. Her name was a derivative of the legendary name of Cherokee Spirit people. The “Beloved Woman” sat in Cherokee Councils and carried a place of respect and honor because it was believed that the Great Spirit often spoke through the Beloved Woman. In addition to participating in the General Council, the Beloved Woman sat with the Council of Chiefs and led the women’s Council. She was a significant voice in negotiating relationships between the Cherokee people and the influx of Anglo settlers including participation in treaty negotiations. A monument erected in 1923 by the Nancy Ward Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution marks her grave. The Nancy Ward Cherokee Foundation is currently raising funds for a museum in her honor.
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