"The "Tsawasi" and "Tsagasi" are another of the Cherokee legends to saturate the Western North Carolina area. These were spirits who helped hunters sneak up on their prey without startling it. They were good natured creatures who wanted to help the indigenous people survive in the rough terrain. There were other "races" of faerie who were not evil but were said to play tricks on the Cherokee by making them slip and fall while hunting in the woods. Some say that evidence for the existence of these faeries is scattered all across Western NC, including mound type structures, mysterious smoke bellowing from the ground in some areas, and relics known as faerie crosses. These were small crosses formed out of crystal and sometimes adorned with gemstones. These crosses are still found until this day and are valuable additions to serious gemstone enthusiasts collections. The spirits of these faeries are said to live near rivers and streams and hide under rocks. The river that flows near Chimney Rock NC is one perfect example of a dwelling place for the Tsawasi and Tsagasi. Just Cherokee legend? You decide."
04/09/2012 @ 02:41:43: Neptune: Discussion: Myths of North Carolina
"Since 1845 mysterious tales of a siren that lures men to their doom have circulated in the Asheville NC area. It is rumored that a man out hiking alone by himself would be plagued by dreams of a beautiful vision of a woman (said to look much like a Cherokee) for days along his hike. Then, as he approached the French Broad River he would be compelled to stop, and set up camp. But, rather than enter his tent at night he would be drawn toward the water's edge where he would see this beautiful woman waiting for him. As he would reach out his hand to touch hers it is told that rather than warm flesh he would be greeted by a cold, slimey, scale covered hand that would rip and tear his skin and pull him to his doom in the river."
04/09/2012 @ 02:42:37: Neptune: Discussion: Myths of North Carolina