Willstown Mission Cemetery: Echoes of Cherokee History
Explore a poignant landmark in Fort Payne, AL, where Cherokee history, missionary efforts, and the Trail of Tears converge. A place for reflection and remembrance.
The Willstown Mission Cemetery in Fort Payne, Alabama, is a historic site connected to the Cherokee Nation, missionary efforts, and the Trail of Tears. Established in 1823, the mission aimed to educate and Christianize the Cherokee. The cemetery may predate the mission, holding unmarked graves of Cherokee individuals and serving as a reminder of the Trail of Tears.
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.
- Check out the nearby Fort Payne Cabin Historic Site, another official site along the Trail of Tears Historic Trail.
Getting There
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Driving
From the center of Fort Payne, take US-11 N (Gault Ave N) and continue for about 1.5 miles. Turn left onto 38th St NE. The Willstown Mission Cemetery is located at 314 38th St NE. There is ample street parking available near the cemetery.
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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.
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Public Transport
Check for local bus services available to Fort Payne. ALTRANS provides free public transportation to all ages for personal purposes in DeKalb County, but reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Upon arrival in Fort Payne, utilize a taxi or rideshare service to reach Willstown Mission Cemetery at 314 38th St NE. Expect taxi fares to range from $10 to $20, depending on your pickup location. Uber is available in Fort Payne. Taxi rates start at $1.90 per mile.
Discover more about Willstown Mission Cemetery
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Willstown Mission Cemetery
0.0 km
Discover the rich history of Fort Payne, Alabama at the Willstown Mission Cemetery, a serene historical landmark steeped in heritage.
Fort Payne Hosiery Museum
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Step back in time at the Fort Payne Hosiery Museum, exploring the city's rich textile history as the 'Sock Capital of the World'.
Fort Payne Opera House
4.9 km
Experience history and culture at Alabama's oldest continuously operating theater, the beautifully restored Fort Payne Opera House.
Little River Falls Bridge Overlook
10.0 km
Witness the majestic Little River Falls from an easily accessible overlook, marking the start of the Little River Canyon in Fort Payne, Alabama.
Council Bluff School
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Discover Alabama's rural educational heritage at the Council Bluff School, the last one-room schoolhouse in DeKalb County.
DeKalb County Public Lake
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Escape to DeKalb County Public Lake for a day of fishing and family fun in a beautiful Sand Mountain setting.
James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park
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Weathington Park
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Gorham's bluff
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Unmissable attractions to see
Alabama Walking Trail Park
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A modern park in Fort Payne with playgrounds, walking trails, and a splash pad, perfect for family fun and outdoor activities.
Alabama Band Statues
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A tribute to the legendary country music band Alabama, these statues celebrate their roots and musical legacy in their hometown of Fort Payne.
Civilian Conservation Corps Museum
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DeSoto State Park
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Fort Payne Cabin Historic Site
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Reflect on the Trail of Tears at the Fort Payne Cabin Historic Site, a poignant reminder of Cherokee removal in Alabama.
DeSoto State Park Cabin #6
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Experience rustic comfort in DeSoto State Park's Cabin #6: Hike, explore, and unwind amidst the natural beauty of Lookout Mountain.
Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures at DeSoto Falls State Park
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Experience the thrill of zip-lining through the forest canopy at DeSoto Falls State Park, with stunning views and exciting aerial adventures.
Indian Falls
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Alabama Fan Club And Museum
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Explore the history of Alabama, the Country Music Group of the Century, at their fan club and museum in Fort Payne, Alabama.
The Secret Place
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Discover a hidden gem in Fort Payne, Alabama: a tranquil park offering a peaceful retreat with scenic beauty and secluded charm on Lookout Mountain.
Little River Wildlife Preserve
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Discover a peaceful natural escape at Little River Wildlife Preserve, your gateway to the stunning Little River Canyon in Fort Payne, Alabama.
Little River Canyon Center
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Little River Canyon National Preserve
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Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Little River Canyon National Preserve in Alabama, a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Cloudmont Ski & Golf Resort
9.8 km
Alabama's only ski resort offering year-round recreation with skiing in winter and golf in warmer months, nestled in the scenic Appalachian foothills.
Little River Canyon Falls Park
10.2 km
Discover the beauty of Little River Canyon Falls Park in Fort Payne, Alabama. Explore scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and a stunning 45-foot waterfall.
Essential places to dine
Wingstop
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Savor deliciously crafted chicken wings at Wingstop in Fort Payne - a paradise for wing lovers with unique flavors and casual vibes.
Pizza Hut
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Enjoy delicious pizza and chicken wings at Pizza Hut in Fort Payne - the perfect spot for families seeking tasty American comfort food.
Arby's
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Experience delicious fast food delights at Arby's in Fort Payne, where quick bites meet satisfying flavors.
Jack's
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Krystal
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Barone's Pizza and Arcade
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Little Caesars Pizza
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Jefferson's
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Experience mouthwatering chicken wings and juicy burgers at Jefferson's in Fort Payne—where American flavors come alive!
Santa Fe Cattle Company
7.3 km
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Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
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Rib Shak
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Tiger’s Inn
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MI Pizza
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Subway
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Mountain Parkway Grill
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hammers Department Store
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Rim of the Canyon Cafe & Grocery
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Gaming Etc.
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Cupboard Antiques
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The Cupboard LLC
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Harton Nursery & Grocery Center
26.3 km
Discover fresh produce, vibrant plants, and local charm at Harton Nursery & Grocery Center in Cedar Bluff, Alabama—a true hidden gem for travelers.
The Rock
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Global Electronics
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Donna’s bargain center
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Weiss Mart Marina
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Kellz Designz
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Maria's Furniture
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Piggly Wiggly
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Missy's Fort Crowe Fireworks
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Country Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black's Karaoke
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Canyon Drive Burger Shack
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Little River Marina & Lodge
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KT Pho Asian Restaurant - Cedar Bluff, AL
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The Big Chill
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The Burger Shack
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La Cabaña
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WEISS LAKE MOTEL
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Experience the serene beauty of Weiss Lake at Weiss Lake Motel, your cozy retreat in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Tony's Pizza & Subs
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The Cove at Riverside RV Park & Campground
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StateLine Tavern & Grill
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La Marina
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Whistle Stop Cafe'
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Guppy's Seafood
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Kloe’s
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Savor the flavors of Southern comfort food at Kloe's, a cozy restaurant in Centre, Alabama, known for its hearty dishes and warm hospitality.
