Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Tribal Seal In the center of the seal of the Cherokee Nation is a large seven pointed star surrounded by a wreath of oak leaves.  The outside border says “Seal of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation.” Interpretation of the seal is found in Cherokee folklore and history.  Ritual songs in certain ancient tribal ceremonies referred to seven clans as the legendary beginning of the Cherokee People. A sacred fire was kept perpetually burning in the “town house” at central point in the nation.  The live oak, the principal hardwood timber of the Carolinas, was used in the fire. The oak was a symbol of strength and everlasting life. The seven pointed star in the Cherokee Seal represents the seven ancient clans in tribal lore.  Since the oak tree was associated with the mysteries of the fire, the wreath of oak leaves was a symbol of the dauntless spirit of courageous people. The Cherokee Seal was adopted by law of the National Council and approved by Lewis Downing, Principal Chief on December 11, 1871.