A historical marker and stone monument declare that this spot is the "Center of the World." At least it was to the Cherokee, who called it "Ah-Yeh-Li A-Lo-Hee." Trails radiated in all directions from this hub, so the designation made sense, at least, before people arrived from places that the trails didn't go (like Europe). Hartwell was also, according to the plaque placed here, a popular roosting spot for migrating Passenger Pigeons. And we all know what happened to the Cherokee and the Passenger Pigeon.
Years ago there was a Center of the World Gift Shop, just down the road, where one could buy Center of the World t-shirts. But it's gone now, so people looking for similar gifts will have to travel to the other Center of the World, in California.
