New Echota-Cherokee Capital State Historic Site will host a series of visiting Cherokee Artists this year starting with Freeman Owle on Saturday, April 17, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Owle is an authoritative lecturer, storyteller and demonstrator of Cherokee culture. He also crafts authentic stone and woodcarvings and is knowledgeable in Cherokee language.

With support from the Friends of New Echota Historic Site and the Calhoun-Gordon County Community Foundation, New Echota will host a well-known Cherokee artist each month this year providing visitors an opportunity to see traditional arts, crafts, music and other cultural demonstrations and lectures.

Friends of New Echota State Historic Site members will also be on hand during these visiting artist days to provide increased access to the historic buildings and will provide cultural lifestyle demonstrations in the buildings including spinning, music, cooking, printing press operation, weapons demonstrations, gardening and other early 19th century lifestyle skills.

Regular admission fees of $3.50-$5 will be charged and State Park & Historic Sites annual passes are available for purchase in advance or on the day of the events at New Echota.

New Echota-Cherokee Capital State Historic Site is located on State Highway 225, a mile north of exit 317, Interstate 75 and is the beginning location for the Cherokee Trail of Tears. For more information, visit www.gastateparks.org , www.friendsofnewechota.org or call 706-624-1321. Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites are operated by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.