Smoky Mountains' Highest Peak Renamed Kuwohi, Restoring Cherokee Heritage

The U.S. Board of Geographic Names votes to change Clingmans Dome back to its original Cherokee name, Kuwohi, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.

The name Kuwohi, meaning 'mulberry place,' has been restored to the highest peak in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The U.S. Board of Geographic Names approved the change following a request from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
Kuwohi is a sacred site for the Cherokee, historically used by their spiritual leaders and healers.
The peak was named Clingmans Dome in 1859 after Confederate General Thomas Clingman, a name now replaced to honor Cherokee heritage.
The National Park Service supports the name change and plans to collaborate with the Cherokee to preserve and share their history.