It’s Snowing at Noccalula Falls - Gadsden, Alabama

Originally known as Black Creek Falls, Noccalula Falls is now named after a Cherokee Indian girl whose tribe lived along the Black Creek near the great falls. According to legend, as the girl grew into her formative years, she fell in love with one of her fellow villagers.Show more

Even thought the object of her affection was a strong courageous warrior, Noccalula's father, the village chief, did not think the man was worthy enough to marry his daughter.

Instead, the father arranged for Noccalula to marry the wealthy chief of a nearby village. To help ensure his daughters cooperation, the chief banished Noccalula's true love from the village.

Young Noccalula was distraught, but at her father's insistence, she continued preparations for the upcoming wedding.

Finally, the day of the wedding came. But as Noccalula was being dressed by female relatives, she knew in her heart that she only loved one man, and it was not who she was about to marry. When Noccalula had a few minutes to herself, she snuck away from the celebration towards the falls.

When her father and crowd noticed her at the falls, she leapt from the top for all to see.

The wedding guests were horrified, and Noccalula's father filled with remorse, believing that he had driven his daughter to her death. In his grief, he proclaimed that the falls would forever be known as Noccalula Falls in honor of his daughter who died for love.