Nantahala Hiking Club History 1818 – Ancestors of the Rev. A Rufus Morgan, our club’s founder, settle in the current-day Franklin, NC area. Grandparents Albert and Johanna Siler give land for St. John’s Episcopal Church in Cartoogehaye (located near Franklin). 1838 – The Silers give land to local Cherokee Chief Chuttahsotee to give him amnesty … Continue reading History of the NHC