Turkey Town, located in Cherokee County, Alabama, was once the largest Cherokee settlement in the state, stretching approximately 25 miles along both banks of the Coosa River. Established in 1788 by the Chickamauga Cherokee chief Little Turkey, it served as a refuge during the Cherokee–American wars. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Cherokee
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 34.13611°N, 85.69167°W
Elevation: 545 ft (166 m)
Time Zone: Central (CST) (UTC-6)
Established: 1788
Disestablished: Not available
Comments: Turkey Town is a ghost town in Cherokee County, in the state of Alabama in the U.S. Turkey Town, also known as Turkey’s Town, was founded by Chief Little Turkey as a sanctuary during conflicts between the Cherokee and American frontiersmen. It became the largest Cherokee town in Alabama, spanning 25 miles along the Coosa River. Notably, John Ross, who later became Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, was born here in 1790.
Remains: Today, Turkey Town is considered a ghost town. The area is largely uninhabited, with remnants of its historical significance still present.
Current Status: Turkey Town is now a ghost town with no remaining active community. The existing structures serve as historical remnants of its past significance.
Remarks: Turkey Town’s decline is attributed to the forced removal of the Cherokee people during the Trail of Tears in the 1830s. Despite its decline, the town’s history remains a testament to the resilience and culture of the Cherokee Nation.
