Moon Eyed People
Sep 10, 2023, 10:31 PM
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Here, at the confluence of the Hiwassee and Valley Rivers, is a fitting place to share the legend of the Moon-Eyed People.
This legend holds a mystical appeal, passed down through various tales from long ago. Though not supported by verified archaeological evidence, the stories continue to spark curiosity.
According to the legend, a race of small, white-skinned people with blond hair and blue eyes once occupied this area in ancient times. These people were said to be unique not only in appearance but also in behavior. In some versions of the story, they were believed to be blind in daylight and could only see by the light of the moon—hence their name: the Moon-Eyed People.
The true origin of these people, if they ever existed, is lost to history.
Some versions of the story, supported by Celtic and Welsh legend, suggest they were Welsh adventurers who arrived in the area around the year 1170. However, other studies by respected researchers either conflict with this claim or make no mention of these mysterious people at all.
So—did they exist? And if so, who were they, and where did they go? We may never know for sure.
Aside from the stories and legends, is there any other evidence?
One possible piece of archaeological evidence that may support their existence was discovered right here at the confluence of these rivers. In 1840, Felix Axley was digging the foundation for his new home just above this spot when he unearthed what some believe to be a full-sized effigy of one of these strange people. The statue is of unknown age or origin.
Over the years, the effigy passed through several hands, including some as far away as Asheville, before being purchased and returned home by our local museum. Today, this fascinating piece of history can be seen at the Cherokee County Historical Museum in downtown Murphy.
Take time to visit the museum and see the artifact for yourself. Then you can decide—did the Moon-Eyed People once live near this very spot?
This legend holds a mystical appeal, passed down through various tales from long ago. Though not supported by verified archaeological evidence, the stories continue to spark curiosity.
According to the legend, a race of small, white-skinned people with blond hair and blue eyes once occupied this area in ancient times. These people were said to be unique not only in appearance but also in behavior. In some versions of the story, they were believed to be blind in daylight and could only see by the light of the moon—hence their name: the Moon-Eyed People.
The true origin of these people, if they ever existed, is lost to history.
Some versions of the story, supported by Celtic and Welsh legend, suggest they were Welsh adventurers who arrived in the area around the year 1170. However, other studies by respected researchers either conflict with this claim or make no mention of these mysterious people at all.
So—did they exist? And if so, who were they, and where did they go? We may never know for sure.
Aside from the stories and legends, is there any other evidence?
One possible piece of archaeological evidence that may support their existence was discovered right here at the confluence of these rivers. In 1840, Felix Axley was digging the foundation for his new home just above this spot when he unearthed what some believe to be a full-sized effigy of one of these strange people. The statue is of unknown age or origin.
Over the years, the effigy passed through several hands, including some as far away as Asheville, before being purchased and returned home by our local museum. Today, this fascinating piece of history can be seen at the Cherokee County Historical Museum in downtown Murphy.
Take time to visit the museum and see the artifact for yourself. Then you can decide—did the Moon-Eyed People once live near this very spot?