The Nikwasi Mound in Franklin, North Carolina. This 2012 photo shows dead grass that was caused when the town sprayed herbicide on the mound. Photo from Scott McKie / Cherokee One Feather

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians still wants to reclaim the sacred Nikwasi Mound despite opposition from the town of Franklin in North Carolina, Chief Michell Hicks said.

The tribe passed a resolution seeking the return of the site. Town leaders voted this week to maintain ownership but said they were open to including the tribe in a maintenance role.

Hicks said that isn't enough. The tribe has accused the town of failing to take care of the site -- in 2012, the town sprayed herbicide on the 6,000 square-foot mound and refused to apologize.

"The EBCI feels the rightful place of the mound lies with the Cherokee people,” Hicks said in a statement to The Rocky Mountain News.

Get the Story:
Franklin passes resolution to keep Nikwasi, allow Cherokee maintenance (The Smoky Mountain News 10/8)
Franklin Burial Mound (WLOS 10/7)

Related Stories:
Eastern Cherokees pass resolution to seek return of sacred site (09/05)
Eastern Cherokees gain support for acquisition of sacred site (9/25)
Eastern Cherokees still hoping to acquire sacred Nikwasi Mound (8/8)