SEASON 8, EPISODE 5

In this episode, Cherokee culture keeper Thomas Belt takes us on a journey of cosmic discovery on the grounds of three foundational Cherokee towns in present-day North Carolina. We explore the legacy and impact of basketweaver and Cherokee National Treasure Ella Mae Blackbear through her collectors and family. Makayla Bearpaw is a Cherokee drummer and musician to her core. We watch as she rocks out night after night while making her dream of a career in music a reality. In our Cherokee Almanac, we explore the infamous Goingsnake Tragedy and Ezekial Proctor. Often erroneously described as a “Cherokee Outlaw”, we reveal the complicated truth behind Proctor, the shootout and his trial.

IN THIS EPISODE​

Cherokee culture keeper Thomas Belt takes us on a journey of cosmic discovery on the grounds of three foundational Cherokee towns in present-day North Carolina.

Ella Mae Blackbear was named a Cherokee National Treasure in 1990 in basketry. We explore how her legacy lives on in the lives of those who knew her and others who are still studying her work today.

Makayla Bearpaw is an Indigenous female drummer and proud of it. After discovering a love of music at a young age, Makayla threw herself into the world of rock and roll. Currently a drummer for the band “Hector and the Hexed” based out of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Makayla is rocking out night after night and making her dream of a career in music a reality.

Ezekiel Proctor is often erroneously cited as being a “Cherokee outlaw.” The truth is much more complicated. In this Cherokee Almanac, we dig to reveal the truth behind the death of Polly Beck Kesterson, the trial of Zeke Proctor, and the infamous shootout known today as the Goingsnake Tragedy.

In this Cherokee Language Lesson, we join Ali and Sinasd as Ali learns to weave a basket.

Continue Watching Season 8

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