Last Updated on February 8, 2023 by Left Lane
I had the honor of being a part of the Trail of Tears Remembrance motorcycle ride during one of my visits to Tennessee. Being the motorcycle rider that I am. I jumped at the opportunity to join the commemorative ride.
The Trail of Tears Remembrance Ride always happens on the 3rd Saturday of September. Making it a good late summer activity.
Why It’s Done
It’s done in remembrance of the Ancestors of Native Americans whose people faced harsh treatment, disease, and many other atrocities, some of which are unspeakable. As they were forced to march to reservations West of the Mississippi River.
In 1830 the United States Congress passed the Indian Removal Act, which was signed into law by President Andrew Jackson.
This act forced the move of many Native American Tribes from there homelands. These tribes included the Cherokee, Creek, Chickasaw, Choctaw, and Seminole.
According to historical Tribal, and Military Records. An estimated 100,000 Native Americans were forced from there homelands. With an estimated 15,000 of them dying on the harsh, nearly thousand mile journey West.
Lunch Stop
The Trail of Tears Remembrance motorcycle ride was started to preserve the route. Which Native Americans were forced to march, and make sure it wasn’t lost to history.
Line’em Up!
After our lunchtime break on the Trail of Tears, we saddled back up to hit the Highway for the next leg of the ride through Waterloo Alabama. With the official ride ending in Florence for the day.
When the Native Americans were forced from there homelands in the Appalachian Mountains by foot, train, and water. One of the routes brought many Native Americans through Waterloo via the Tennessee River from Tuscumbia Alabama.
Once we reached the end of the official days ride at McFarland Park, in Florence Alabama. They had concessions, shopping booths, and a Native American Cultural Heritage experience awaiting us.
For more information, history, and routes on the Trail of Tears Click Here
Want to check out another interesting Motorcycle Adventure? Check out my adventure to a Historical Landmark by Clicking Here
Thanks for sharing this. 👍