The highest peak at Great Smoky Mountains National Park is officially reverting to its Cherokee name more than 150 years after a surveyor named it for a Confederate general.

Kuwohi, which translates to “mulberry place” in Cherokee, replaces Clingmans Dome, a name that honored Thomas Clingman, an expelled U.S. senator-turned-Confederate brigadier general who, as a lawyer, defended settlers’ claims on Cherokee land. Clingman is buried in Riverside Cemetery in Asheville.

What was formerly known as Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains, has now been restored to its traditional Cherokee name Kuwohi. The U.S. Board on Geographic Names approved the change Sept. 18, the National Park Service announced.

What has been known for years as Clingman's Dome, one of the most popular places to visit in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, has been renamed.

The renaming caps an effort begun in 2022 by two enrolled members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Lavita Hill and Mary Crowe. Principal Chief Michell Hicks submitted the formal name-change application last January, including more than 150 pages of background materials and letters of support from local governments and others.

One of the most visited national parks in the country and a major tourist attraction for Middle Tennesseans now has a new name.

Great Smoky National Park team was proud to support this effort to officially restore the mountain and to recognize its importance to the Cherokee People."