CHEROKEE PHOENIX AND INDIANS' ADVOCATE
Wednesday, July 29, 1829
Vol. II, no. 17
Page 2, col. 4a

 In reference to the complimentary notice of Se-quo-yah in our first page, it may be proper to mention, that most of the incidents related, took place among the Cherokees of the Arkansas.  He commenced his labors here, but removed to the west before the practicability of his invention was tested.  Se-quo-yah certainly deserves to be held in remembrance by all who respect native genius, but more particularly, by his country-men, on whom he has conferred a lasting blessing-they are reaping a full harvest from his invention, which, for its simplicity, is unrivalled.-  Its simplicity is fully demonstrated by its rapid extension since it was introduced.- Without the aid of a single schoolmaster, or a single book, it has been generally acquired in the nation, and now we venture to assert reading and writing are as common here as among the neighboring whites, and certainly those Cherokees who have attended to their Alphabet once week, write more correctly, than the English scholar who has been steadfast to his book two years.

 P. S.  The font of type now used in this place was not procured by the general government, but at the public expense of the Cherokee Nation, though it is true the U. States have appropriated (not however altogether gratuitously) one thousand dollars, for the establishment of a press among the Cherokees of the Arkansas.

This transcription from the Cherokee Phoenix is presented as part of the historical record, and includes historical materials that may contain negative stereotypes or language reflecting the culture or language of a particular period or place including terminology that may not be deemed appropriate today. While an effort has been made to verify the transcription against the original text, complete accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Researchers are urged to match the transcription against the original article to authenticate exact quotes. Issues of the Cherokee Phoenix are available on microfilm. Please check your local library for availability or to inquire about interlibrary loan of a microfilm copy.

Send comments or questions to: George Frizzell
Special Collections . Hunter Library . Western Carolina University . Cullowhee, NC 28723 . 828-227-7474