JunaluskaWreathLayingCeremony

The 115th Annual Junaluska Wreath Laying Ceremony was held in Robbinsville on Nov. 5. Photo by Latresa Phillips/The Graham Star

‘The mountains are calling’

Latresa Phillips

Friday, November 14, 2025

Robbinsville – It was on a Saturday – Nov. 5, 1910 – that the Daughters of the American Revolution dedicated a memorial for Chief Junaluska in Robbinsville. Pastor Armstrong Cornsilk – a friend of the great chief – spoke kind words, hoping that “All could be happy together.

Jenni Junaluska and Cecilia Arrowood lay the ceremonial wreath on Chief Junaluska’s grave to help memorialize the famed Native American on Nov. 13. Jenni is a sixth-generation descendant of the chief. Photos by Latresa Phillips/The Graham Star

Wrapped in tradition

Latresa Phillips

Thursday, November 21, 2024

Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Vice Chief Alan B. Ensley delivers some remarks during Nov. 13’s Junaluska Wreath Laying Ceremony. Robbinsville – He was an unsung hero in one of the greatest Native American battles in the history of the United States.

Cecilia Arrowwood (left) and Jenni Junaluska place the ceremonial wreath on Junaluska’s grave Friday. Photos by Latresa Phillips/The Graham Star

‘Very brave, not afraid’

Latresa Phillips

Thursday, November 16, 2023

A new marker was unveiled at Friday’s annual Junaluksa Wreath Laying Ceremony in Robbinsville, recognizing the famed chief for his service in the United States military. Robbinsville – He is considered by many the unsung hero of the greatest Native American battle in United States history.