Deals Gap, located on the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, is known for its captivating scenic beauty, the famed stretch of highway known as the “Tail of the Dragon,” and a rich folklore that has passed from generation to generation. Among these tales, the story of the dragon stands out. While some may dismiss it as mere legend, others believe that the echoes of past events lie within the folds of this story. Let's drive into the history of the tale of the dragon at Deals Gap, tracing its origins and exploring its significance for the region.
Origins of the Tale
Every story has a genesis, and The Tail of The Dragon at Deals Gap is no exception. The story likely has its roots in the Native American tales of the Cherokee people, who inhabited the region long before European settlers arrived. The Cherokee revered the land and believed spirits and creatures inhabited the forests, mountains, and waters.
The Tail of The Dragon originates from a Cherokee legend about a winged serpent living in the dense forests of the Smoky Mountains. This creature was believed to guard sacred sites and was seen as both a protector and a force to be reckoned with.
European Settlers and the Evolution of the Tale
As European settlers moved into the region in the 18th century, they intermingled with the Cherokee and other Native American tribes. Along with the exchange of goods and cultural practices, stories and myths were also shared. The Tail of The Dragon, with its roots in Cherokee legend, began to evolve, incorporating elements from European dragon tales.
European dragon stories often portrayed dragons as malevolent creatures that hoarded treasures or terrorized villages. Over time, the Tail of The Dragon at Deals Gap began to reflect these characteristics, with stories of a fearsome dragon guarding hidden treasures in the mountains or attacking unwary travelers.
The Birth of “Tail of the Dragon”
As time went on, the legend of the dragon became intertwined with the development of a particular stretch of road known as US 129. This 11-mile section, with its 318 curves, is one of the most challenging and thrilling drives in the United States. Due to its serpentine nature, it was aptly named the “Tail of the Dragon.”
Many believe that the name is a nod to the old legends, representing the twists and turns that the mythical dragon might take as it winds through the forests and mountains. However, the “Tail of the Dragon” is not just about myth. Over the years, it has become a rite of passage for motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts, drawing thousands annually to test their skills against its challenging curves.
The Dragon's Rise to Fame
While initially, the road was primarily a local route for transport and travel, it gradually gained notoriety among driving enthusiasts. The tight twists, hairpin turns, and short straights made it an obvious choice for those looking for an adrenaline-pumping drive or ride. Motorcycle magazines and automobile enthusiasts began to highlight the Tail of the Dragon as a ‘must-visit,' and soon, the area witnessed an influx of riders and drivers eager to test their skills.
Local businesses took note of the increasing influx of tourists. Shops and restaurants sprouted up, catering to the unique interests and needs of their motor-loving clientele. The famous Tree of Shame, adorned with parts of vehicles that couldn't conquer Tail of the Dragon, stands as a testament to the challenge this road presents.
Safety and Preservation Efforts
With the increasing popularity, there were growing concerns about safety. Accidents were, unfortunately, a frequent occurrence due to a combination of overconfidence, lack of experience, and the tricky nature of the road itself. As a result, local law enforcement, in collaboration with riding groups, initiated efforts to increase safety awareness. Speed limits, patrolling, and regular road maintenance became more rigorous, ensuring that while the Tail of the Dragon offered thrill, it did not compromise safety.
The local community, recognizing the historical and economic significance of the Tail of the Dragon, also began preservation efforts. This included not only maintaining the road but also ensuring the natural beauty surrounding it remained untouched and unspoiled for future generations.
In the summer of 2023, I embarked on a journey that would become one of the most memorable experiences of my life. My son and I, driving our classic Miata, decided to take on the Tail of the Dragon. We had heard tales of its allure and challenge and were eager to see if they held true.
From the outset, the road was everything we had imagined. Every turn became a dance between man, machine, and nature. The Miata, with its good responsive steering and balanced chassis, was the perfect companion for such a journey. The tight curves, the dips, the rises – it was a symphony of driving perfection.
However, as we navigated the Tail of the Dragon, I noticed something special: the Miata wave. This simple gesture of waving to fellow Miata drivers has its roots in the very beginnings of the car's history. The Miata, known for its community-driven spirit and camaraderie, developed this informal salute among its drivers. It’s a nod of appreciation, a symbol of the shared passion for this iconic car.
Every time we passed another Miata, we exchanged this wave. It became a rhythmic dance, an unspoken bond formed between strangers united by a mutual appreciation for the car. For me, this added another layer to our adventure. It wasn't just about conquering the road but connecting with a community.
Beyond the thrill of the drive, it was the bonding experience with my son and the shared moments with fellow Miata enthusiasts that truly made the trip special. We shared laughs, gasps, and moments of sheer awe at the beauty that surrounded us. The Tail of the Dragon wasn't just a road; it became a conduit for creating lasting memories.
As we explored local diners and chatted with fellow travelers, we discovered a shared camaraderie, a sense of community built around the respect and love for the Tail of the Dragon. It was a reminder that sometimes, it's the journey, not just the destination, that truly matters.
Incorporating the Miata wave into our journey made me feel more than just a traveler on the road; I felt part of a tradition, a shared history that spans decades and continents. It's these small gestures and traditions that often leave the most lasting impressions on me.
The Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap is a beautiful amalgamation of Native American folklore, European myth, and modern-day adventure-seeking. It encapsulates the essence of the region, weaving together its rich history, cultural exchanges, and the indomitable spirit of the mountains.
For genealogists and history enthusiasts, tales like this serve as a reminder that stories passed down through generations can offer invaluable insights into the beliefs, values, and experiences of our ancestors. While the Tail of the Dragon might remain elusive, the tales it has inspired continue to enrich the storied history of Deals Gap.
