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Tennessee Myths and Legends: The Indian Legend of the Lovers' Leap

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Tennessee Myths and Legends: The Indian Legend of the Lovers' Leap
Indian Legend of Lovers’ Leap
There are many different stories of Lovers’ Leap’s around the world. This Cherokee Indian legend took place many years ago in Rock City, Tennessee. According to the legend, the Chief of the Cherokees had a beautiful daughter named Nacoochee, which means “Evening Star.” Sautee was a handsome, strong brave from a rival Indian tribe. He and Nacoochee fell in love the first time they saw each other. He was determined to be with her, and she longed to be with him, despite the fact that both of their families would certainly reject their relationship. The only way the two young lovers could be together was to leave their families behind and elope. Nacoochee not only gave up the shelter, love and support of her family, she also knew that she could not enjoy the shelter, love and support of Sautee’s family because she was Cherokee, and would never be accepted into their tribe. But she was so in love with Sautee, she was willing to give up everything to be with him. She knew he was a very brave man and would do everything he could to take care of her.
Sautee and Nacoochee found a cave located in the side of Lookout Mountain. The entrance to the cave was partially concealed by bushes, and there was plenty of high grass for which to make a bed in the cave. There were plenty of birds and other animals that provided Sautee a bountiful hunting ground. A stream was nearby that supplied fresh water. They had everything they needed to begin their new life together.

When Nacoochee’s father found out that she and Sautee had eloped, he was enraged. He vowed to find them and take out his anger on Sautee. Many young Cherokee braves who had longed for the chance to win Nacoochee’s love also volunteered to join the Chief of the Cherokees in his search.
With so many people searching, it didn’t take them long to find Sautee and Nacoochee. Sautee was suddenly attacked by a multitude of angry Cherokees. Nacoochee’s father immediately gave the younger



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