Approximately 1500 die in confinement. In Aquohee stockade Cherokee chiefs meet in council, reaffirming the sovereignty of the Cherokee Nation. John Ross becomes superintendent of the removal. Ross wins additional funds for food and clothing. November Thirteen contingents of Cherokees cross Tennessee, Kentucky and Illinois.
First groups reach the Mississippi River, where there crossing is held up by river ice flows.
December Contingent led by Chief Jesse Bushyhead camps near present day Trail of Tears Park. First overland contingents arrives at Fort Gibson. Ross party of sick and infirm travel from Kentucky by riverboat. February Chief Ross's wife, Quati, dies near Little Rock, Arkansas on February 1, 1839. Last group headed by Ross, reaches Oklahoma.