Wagon Train tradition continues
Anna Mitchell Sentinel Writer

Photos by Desiree J. Reynolds / Sentinel Photo

The 51st Annual Wagon Train is making its trek once again through the backwoods of Andrews. This long-established tradition is a chance for families to enjoy the outdoors and relive a piece of local history.

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

The wagon train began in 1958 as a trek across the mountains from Tellico Plains, Tenn., to Murphy. To the surprise of most everyone, interest mounted and people came from all around to join in. Horsemen from Andrews ventured to the small town of Tellico Plains and were met by other riders and wagons. This larger group left Tellico Plains on an early morning 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. 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 the 4th of July celebration. Traditionally, every five years, the train traveled the original route from Tellico to Murphy.

MOVING ALONG: Members of Wagon Train passed through downtown andrews Friday evening, just around sunset time, greeting their many onlookers, who had set up lawn chairs on the sidewalk specially for the event. Wagon Train has been a tradition since 1958, in which the original route was a trek from Tellico Plains, TN to Murphy.

In 1963, the train became incorporated as a non-profit corporation. The Western North Carolina (WNC) Wagon Train, Incorporated, headquartered in Andrews. WNC Wagon Train, Incorporated is governed by a board of directors.

In 2004 the organization officially expanded their original mission statement to include the encouragement of promotion of the 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 the rules and regulations thereof.

The Wagon Train even has a scholarship. The WNC Wagon Train Scholarship is awarded annually with the formal presentation made prior to the beginning of the annual trek. Applications for the scholarship must be received by January 15 to be considered. The scholarship is available to individuals pursuing further education in fields related to animals, forestry and other fields which promote the goals of the organization.

Only registered participants are permitted to ride in the annual Wagon Train. Registration is $15 for individuals age 18 and over or $25 for a family. A portion of each registration fee will be used to fund the scholarship.

The Wagon Master this year is Donald Ray Luther. The Assistant Wagon Master is Kenney Clark, and the Chief Scout is Ivan Hogsed. The schedule for the train began at Steward Road in Andrews on June 27. The train visits Chestnut Flats, Perkins Falls, Vengeance Creek, Danner Cove, Spread Eagle, Webb Creek, and finally to the parade in Andrews on the 4th.