Subsistence of the Cherokee

The Cherokee had settlements and villages throughout Appalachia.  They were hunter and gatherers and farmers.  The men often hunted game like deer, birds, bears, mountain lions, beavers and turkeys.  The women often grew corn (selu), beans, squash, pumpkins, and sunflowers.  Like all Native Americans, any game they killed  they used every part.  The intestines and stomach where often used as water pouches, the meat for food, the skins for trade, clothing, and blankets, and used the bones for utensils.  The women often gathered berries, herbs, and plants.  Many plants that were gathered often where turned into medicine for illnesses, diseases, and injuries.  The settlements and villages where often nears rivers and streams so fish was another source of subsistence.  The Cherokee always took what they only needed because it was apart of their culture to respect nature and Mother Earth and thank her before taking any animal's life.


Blue Ridge National Heritage Area and National Park Service
Cherokee Agriculture
http://www.blueridgeheritage.com/heritage/agriculture/cherokee-agriculture                                                   November 16, 2012