The Florence Indian Mound Museum is collaborating with the Alabama Chapter of the Trail of Tears Association to host a presentation series titled, “Southeastern Native Americans—Fact, Fiction, and Folktales.” The series will focus on different aspects of southeastern Native American history and culture. Presentations will be both in-person and recorded. Paul Matheny’s presentation will be on Sunday, January 8th, 2023, at 2:00 at the Florence Indian Mound Museum.

The presentation will examine the reasons for the removal of the southeastern Native Americas to Indian Territory, focusing on the major events leading up to removal, such as the Louisiana Purchase, the War of 1812, the Indian Removal Act, and eventually, the Trail of Tears. The removal of the southeastern Native Americans from the east to the west of the Mississippi River was a plan long in the making. This presentation will help to develop the context during which this horrendous event occurred.

Commander Paul Matheny began his military career as a member of the United States Navy Reserve in 1981 and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from the University of Tennessee, a Master of Education Degree from Middle Tennessee State University and a Master of Science Degree in Business Management from Naval Post Graduate School.  

Commander Matheny and his wife, Victoria, are natives of McMinnville, Tennessee.  He has authored two books, “Gypsies, Beasts and Indian Chiefs” and “A River Rat Goes to Ayers Hall,” and is a frequent lecturer on the Trail of Tears and American Indian Culture. Both Paul and Victoria are members of the Alabama and Tennessee State Trail of Tears Associations. His interest in the Trail of Tears is based on his Great, Great, Great, Grandfather, James Campbell, who was part of the Trail of Tears to Oklahoma. 

This program is a collaboration between the City of Florence Department of Arts and Museums and the Alabama Chapter of the Trail of Tears Association and sponsored by the Muscle Shoals National Heritage Area. The Florence Indian Mound is located at 1028 South Court Street and is open, Tuesday - Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Sunday, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Call 256-760-6427 for more information.