Pole: Dr. John Wyche introduced this historical bean to the market after his family, within the Cherokee tribe had who survived the infamous Trail of Tears in 1839, cultivated this variety. Planting and harvesting this heirloom acts as a tangible reminder of history. unique pole variety bares shiny black beans that are rich in flavor. The Cherokee Black Bean can be enjoyed as a snap bean when the pods are green or harvested as the pods turn a deep purple color for a dry bean.