About The Potawatomi Trail of Death
The Potawatomi Trail of Death refers to the forced removal of over 850 Potawatomi people from their ancestral homelands in Indiana to what is now Kansas in 1838. This tragic journey, spanning over 660 miles, was a result of the U.S. government’s Indian Removal policy.
The Potawatomi were marched at gunpoint, facing harsh conditions, including hunger, disease, and exhaustion. Over 40 individuals, many of them children and elders, lost their lives along the way, buried in unmarked graves. This event marks a dark chapter in American history, highlighting the immense suffering and resilience of the Potawatomi people.
Today, the Trail of Death is remembered through historical markers, educational programs, and commemorative events that honor the lives lost and ensure that this vital history is not forgotten.
Helpful Resources
Experience the living history of the Potawatomi people by retracing the 1838 Trail of Death, where over 850 Potawatomi were forcibly removed from Indiana to Kansas. As you walk the trail, you’ll discover markers that honor and preserve the legacy of the Potawatomi. Begin your journey with an interactive Google Map that guides you along the trail, offering insights into the events that unfolded. We are also developing immersive elements, including interactive audio diaries and extended reality tools, to further enrich your experience and bring the stories of the Potawatomi Trail of Death to life in powerful new ways.
Books & Resources
Explore books and digital resources that offer historical context and personal insights into the Potawatomi Trail of Death.
The Woods Cry
Engage with “The Woods Cry,” a narrative experience that brings the emotional and cultural impact of the Trail of Death to life.
Self-Guided Tour
Embark on a self-guided tour on the trail to key locations along the Trail of Death, offering a deeper connection to this pivotal chapter in history.
Interactive Map
This map offers an immersive way, featuring embedded videos and audio clips, to experience and understand the Potawatomi journey.
Letters & Journals
Dive into the letters and journals of migrating parties, providing detailed accounts of the experiences during the Potawatomi Trail of Death.
Pilgrimage Trips
Join future pilgrimage trips to retrace the Potawatomi Trail of Death on guided, in-person journeys along the historic route.
