Genealogy

The Museum of the Cherokee Indian offers genealogical research. Many people claim a Cherokee ancestor from the Removal era (circa the 1830s). If you purchase a consultation, our genealogist will explore your family history based on the information you provide on the genealogical questionnaire. The genealogist will then determine if there is a connection, if any, to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. We will then reach out to you to schedule a time to meet virtually or in person to share the findings.

You may book an appointment by contacting Robin Swayney at 828-497-3481 ext. 1007 or robin.swayney@mci.org.

Disclaimer: the Museum of the Cherokee Indian is not affiliated with the enrollment office of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Enrollment in the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians is governed by Cherokee Code, Chapter 49, Enrollment, and restricts enrollment to the following:

1. A direct lineal ancestor must appear on the 1924 Baker Roll of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
2. You must possess at least 1/16 degree of Eastern Cherokee blood. Please note: Blood quantum is calculated from your ancestor listed on the 1924 Baker Roll. No DNA/blood testing is performed or acceptable for this calculation. To have this Roll searched, please contact the Enrollment Office to receive a form to complete and submit.

The Enrollment Office provides a Cherokee genealogy research service searching records prior to the 1924 Baker Roll. These records date back to 1835 and enumerate the members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians within the limits of North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama. This service does not aid in determining eligibility for enrollment with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Resources:

Cherokee Roots Vol. 1

By Bob Blankenship (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians). Members of the Cherokee tribe residing east of the Mississippi River 1817-1924. Published by Cherokee Roots 1992. Softcover; 165 pp. 9″ x 7″ $10.00.

1924 Baker Roll; A Cherokee Roots Publication 

By Bob Blankenship (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians). The final roll of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians in North Carolina and official base roll of the EBCI. Compiled and approved by Fred Baker pursuant to an Act of Congress 1924. Published by Cherokee Roots 1999.

Dawes Roll Plus

By Bob Blankenship (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians). Names and application information for the Dawes Roll. A Cherokee Roots Publication.

Cherokee Proud; A Guide for Tracing and Honoring Your Cherokee Ancestors

By Tony Mack McClure. Information about the Cherokee and how to trace your genealogy. Published by Chu-Nan-Nee Books 2nd edition 1992.

Exploring Your Ancestry

Published by the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma. How to trace your genealogy.

Cherokee Roots Vol. 2

By Bob Blankenship (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians).  Lists members of the Cherokee tribe residing west of the Mississippi River. Published by Cherokee Roots 1992. Softcover; 165 pp. 9″ x 7″ $22.00.

Miller Roll Plus 

By Bob Blankenship (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians).  Names and application information for the Miller Roll of the Eastern Cherokee both east and west of the Mississippi River in 1909. Published by Cherokee Roots 1994.