Cherokee folklore

Parchment-style artwork of white crow flying with burning coal, Cherokee folktale of courage and fire.

Why the Crow Is Black: Cherokee Folktale

by Ayomide Adekilekun

October 20, 2025

American Myths·Native American Nature & Animal Myths

In the time before memory, when the earth was still young and filled with wonder, the crow was not black as we know it today. His feathers shone white as winter snow, and when he sang, his voice carried through the valleys, soft and sweet like the songs of spring. Among all birds, Crow was the most beautiful and the

Parchment-style artwork of Selu, the Corn Mother, blessing a cornfield, Cherokee folktale scene.

American Seasonal Traditions·American Traditions & Beliefs

The Corn Mother’s Gift: Cherokee Folktale

Long ago, before the world knew the sweetness of corn, the Cherokee people lived on roots, nuts, and wild berries. They wandered the forests and river valleys of the Southeastern lands, their days filled with hunger and hope. Food was scarce, and the people prayed for a blessing from the