GivingTuesday is the international day of generosity happening on Tuesday, November 30, 2021.
Save this beautiful piece of ancient history! Paint Rock is North Carolina’s best-known example of an American Indian pictograph from 5,000 years ago. In 1880, author W. H. Ferrel wrote that the “Indians colored portions of it with an indelible paint…”
A possible explanation for the creation of the art at Paint Rock might be related to the nearby hot springs. The Cherokee people were the first to use the 100-plus-degree mineral water, and they generally believed that the hot springs possessed healing powers. They used the rock art sites as waypoints for prayer and contemplation on their pilgrimage to the springs.
This connection to the past is sacred to the Cherokee people and important to all humankind. The petroglyphs are in danger of being forever lost. Vandals with spray paint may erase this piece of ancient history. Prevention of further desecration of this beautiful landmark is paramount in its preservation.
We are working with the US Forest Service, and hoping to work with the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians and other local groups to restore and protect the site.
We need your help to:
– Remove graffiti
– Add signage about fines for graffiti
– Add hidden security cameras in parking areas to ensure vandalism does not continue
– Improve the site and remove invasive species
– Establish an official trail
– Create an historic marker
– Establish a local stewardship group
Please support this work by donating to Preserving a Picturesque America. You can donate here.