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History and Mission 

The need for good roads through the mountains connecting East Tennessee and Western North Carolina was the purpose in organizing the wagon train, which was originally known as the Tellico to Murphy Wagon Train.

The train began in 1958 as a trek across the mountains from Tellico Plains, Tennessee to Murphy, North Carolina.  To the surprise of most everyone, interest mounted and people came from all around to join in.  The group left Tellico Plains on an early morning late in June.  They were greeted by a host of spectators all along the route, and on the 4th of July, 67 wagons and 325 horseback riders were welcomed in Murphy by a cheering crowd of thousands.  The next year and for five consecutive years, the train used the same route.

In 1963, the train became incorporated as a non-profit corporation.  Western North Carolina Wagon Train, Incorporated, with headquarters in Andrews, North Carolina.  Enthusiasm became contagious and interest spread so far that various routes have been traveled throughout the mountains, always ending with a parade in a designated town to which they have been invited, to join in the 4th of July celebration.  Traditionally, every five years, the train travels the original route from Tellico to Murphy.

The WNC Wagon Train, Incorporated is governed by a board of directors which is made up of members from Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Macon, Swain counties in North Carolina and from East Tennessee and North Georgia.

In 2004, the organization officially expanded their original mission statement to include encouragement and promotion of fair treatment of equine livestock. This is accomplished through practice, education, and enrichment programs. Membership is open to individuals who share the goals and mission of the organization and abide by all rules and regulations thereof.

  WNC WAGON TRAIN SCHOLARSHIP

•  The WNC Wagon Train Scholarship is awarded annually with the formal presentation made prior to the beginning of the annual trek.

•    Application for the scholarship must be received by January 13 to be considered.

•  Only registered Participants may act as sponsor for applicants for the annual WNC Wagon Train Scholarship.