Willstown Mission Cemetery: Echoes of Cherokee History
Explore a site of Cherokee heritage, missionary history, and Trail of Tears remembrance at Willstown Mission Cemetery in Fort Payne, Alabama.
The Willstown Mission Cemetery in Fort Payne, Alabama, is a poignant reminder of Cherokee history, missionary efforts, and the Trail of Tears. Established in 1823, the site served as a mission and school, and its cemetery may predate the mission, holding unmarked graves of Cherokee individuals.
A brief summary to Willstown Mission Cemetery
- 314 38th St NE, Fort Payne, Alabama, 35967, US
- +1256-845-6888
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and optimal lighting for photography.
- Take time to read the inscriptions on the headstones; they provide fascinating insights into the lives of those buried here.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven ground within the cemetery.
- Bring water, especially during warmer months, as there are limited facilities on-site.
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Fort Payne, head northeast on Gault Avenue N/US-11 toward 37th Street NE. Turn right onto 38th Street NE. Continue for a short distance; the Willstown Mission Cemetery will be on your left, near the corner of Godfrey Avenue and 38th Street. Parking is limited and available on the roadside near the cemetery entrance. There are no parking fees.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in Fort Payne, a taxi or ride-share service (like Uber) can provide direct transport to the Willstown Mission Cemetery. Simply provide the destination address (314 38th St NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967). The ride typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on the starting location and demand. Taxi rates start @ 1.90 $ per mile.
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Walking
From the Fort Payne Depot Museum, head north on Gault Ave N for approximately 1.4 miles. Turn left onto 38th St NE. Continue a short distance to 314 38th St NE. The Willstown Mission Cemetery will be on your left. There are no costs associated with walking.
Discover more about Willstown Mission Cemetery
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Willstown Mission Cemetery
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