Cherokee Heritage Center

2005-11-07T15:18:00.000-06:00

In Memory of Cherokee Artist Talmadge Davis

Talmadge Davis was an award winning artist whose paintings evoked powerful emotions and deep appreciation for his artwork. The preservation of Cherokee heritage and its ancient history was one of the driving forces behind his art. Davis exhibited his paintings as a part of the annual art shows at the Cherokee Heritage Center since 2000. Originally born in Oklahoma, Talmadge served in the US Army from 1982-1987 including serving in Germany. Talmadge won many awards throughout the country for his art including: Tulsa Indian Festival, Wichita Indian Market, Southwest Classic Art Show and a multiple winner for Best in Category and Peoples Choice at the Cherokee Heritage Center.

The Staff and Board of Trustees of the Cherokee National Historical Society, Inc., would like to pass along our thoughts and prayers to Talmadge’s family and friends. We will miss his charming personality and exquisite artwork.

Cherokee Heritage Center Receives Top Honors at Governor’s Conference

2005-10-17T12:24:00.000-05:00

The Cherokee Heritage Center in Park Hill, Okla., received two Redbud Awards and a Merit award during the Governor’s Conference on Tourism held in Tulsa October 2-4. The center was awarded a Redbud for Best Sponsorship/Partnership, a Redbud for Best Web Site and a Merit award for Outstanding Temporary Exhibit for the Cherokee Athletes Exhibit displayed in January.

The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department and the Oklahoma Travel Industry Association host the annual Redbud Awards, honoring excellence in tourism attractions, events and promotional efforts across the state. These awards represent the highest honor given for tourism in the state of Oklahoma.

The Best Sponsorship/Partnership category was judged on significant expansion of advertising or promotion budget due to sponsorships or cooperative efforts, creativity in soliciting sponsorship dollars and effective use of sponsorship dollars. The Cherokee Heritage Center won for its partnership with Cherokee Nation Enterprises on the production of a full-color informational magazine, “Cherokee Adventures,” designed to lure tourists to the entire Cherokee Nation.

The Best Web Site category was judged on ease of use, creativity, visual appeal, appropriateness for target audience, site effectiveness and achievement of goals. The Cherokee Heritage Center site, https://mail.cherokeeheritage.org/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.cherokeeheritage.org/, recently underwent a re-design in cooperation with the Information Systems department of the Cherokee Nation.

Each category offers only two awards, a Merit award and a Redbud. The Cherokee Heritage Center’s Cherokee Athlete’s exhibit received a Merit award for Outstanding Temporary Exhibit. This category was judged on creative and unique elements, marketing, publications and improvements or enhancements made to exhibits since initial display.

“We are honored to have been recognized by our peers in the industry and by the State of Oklahoma,” said Cherokee Heritage Center Public Relations Officer, Ami Maddocks. “The support we have received from the Cherokee Nation, Cherokee Nation Enterprises and the community is appreciated by everyone here at the center.”

The Cherokee Heritage Center is a nonprofit organization devoted to the preservation and promotion of Cherokee history and culture. The center is home to the Ancient Village, Adams Corner Rural Village, the Cherokee National Museum and the Tsa La Gi Amphitheater. For more information on the Cherokee Heritage Center’s events and attractions, call (918) 456-6007 or visit the Web site at https://mail.cherokeeheritage.org/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.cherokeeheritage.org/.

Students Relive Cherokee History at Ancient Cherokee Days

2005-10-17T12:22:00.000-05:00

Hundreds of students recently had the opportunity to become part of Cherokee history during Ancient Cherokee Days, Oct. 13 and 14 at the Cherokee Heritage Center. Designed for Kindergarten through 12th grade students, Ancient Cherokee Days provides an excellent venue for a school field trip that is both educational and entertaining.

This children’s festival, sponsored by the Flint Foundation, gave children the opportunity to experience Cherokee life in the 1500s.

“Events such as Ancient Cherokee Days and Indian Territory Days, offered in the Spring, give children a better sense of Cherokee culture and expand beyond the Trail of Tears story,” said Cherokee Heritage Center Education Director, Tonia Hogner-Weavel. “It is a great way for students to experience the rich history, but most importantly to see Cherokee culture alive and
thriving in today’s world.”

Participants of Ancient Cherokee had the opportunity to participate in cultural activities such as blowgun shooting, stickball, chunkey, Cherokee language, Southeastern art projects and storytelling.

In addition to these events, students took advantage of the many permanent features at the Cherokee Heritage Center, including the Ancient Village, Adam’s Corner Rural Village, Heritage Farm, the Cherokee National Museum and the Museum Store.

Cherokee Homecoming Art Show Winners Announced

2005-10-17T12:16:00.000-05:00

The winners of the Tenth Annual Cherokee Homecoming Art Show and Sale were announced at a 12 p.m. awards ceremony Saturday, Oct. 8 at the Cherokee Heritage Center. Sponsored by Cherokee Nation Enterprises, the Oklahoma Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts, 49 artists from across the nation competed in various categories for more than $5,000 in cash awards.

First prize was given in each division as well as a Grand Prize award. In addition to these awards, five Judge’s Choice Awards and 15 Honorable Mention’s were given. This year’s Grand Prize winner is Jane Osti for her contemporary pot “Arkansas Appliqué.”

Divisions and categories for the show include: Traditional Division - 1. Traditional Basketry, 2. Jewelry and Beading, 3. Traditional Pottery, 4. Traditional Arts; Contemporary Division – 5. Visual Arts (Painting and Graphics), 6. Contemporary Sculpture, 7. Contemporary Pottery, 8. Contemporary Basketry and 9. Textiles.

Unlike the annual Trail of Tears Art Show, the homecoming show is only open to artists who have membership in the Cherokee Nation, United Keetoowah Band or Eastern Band of Cherokees. This distinction offers visitors the opportunity to purchase traditional Cherokee works.

Entered art work may be viewed on-line at http://www.cherokeeheritage.org/. For more information call the Cherokee Heritage Center at (918) 456-6007 or toll free at (888) 999-6007.

2005 Cherokee Homecoming Art Show Winners

Grand Prize Winner
Jane Osti – Arkansas Appliqué”

First Place – Traditional Division
Traditional Baskets
Bessie Russell – Famine Wheel

Traditional Jewelry & Beading
Martha Berry – After the Storm

Traditional Pottery
Lisa Rutherford – Nv-da Ga-sa-qua-lu

Traditional Arts
Dave Blackbird Jr. – Family Gatherings

First Place - Contemporary Division
Visual Arts
Virginia Stroud – Surrounded by Beauty

Contemporary Sculpture
William Demos Glass – Spider’s Journey

Contemporary Pottery
P.J. Gilliam Stewart – Starry Night by the Water

Contemporary Baskets
Lena Blackbird – Indian Summer

Textiles
Julie Perkins – Nvki

Judges Choice Awards
Shawna Morton Cain – Unfinished Business, A Peace Wampum
Abraham Locust – Beaded Cane
Virginia Stroud – Baby Bonnet Beaded
Carlene Wiley – Black Beauty
Joe Scott Jr. – War Club

Honorable Mentions
Bill Rabbit – The Elders
Lisa Rutherford – A Tsi Di
Kathy Van Buskirk – Fall
Sharon Irla – Serpentine Birds
Darrell Bollin – Ivory Billed Woodpecker
Judith Emerson – Into the Light
Jacque Young – Where the East Wind Blows
Valerie Blea – Small Pack Basket
America Meredith – Double Eagle
Tonia Hogner-Weavel – For Thelma
Mary Beth Nelson – Corn Woman
P.J. Gilliam Stewart – Thunder Boys
Roger Cain – Booger Mask
Jacque Young – Talking PentaclesShirley Sims – My Wild Pink Rose

Center Seeks New Executive Director

2005-08-26T22:58:00.000-05:00

Cherokee National Historical Society, Inc.
dba The Cherokee Heritage Center
P. O. Box 515
Tahlequah, OK 74465
(918) 456-6007
e-mail: info@cherokeeheritage.org

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The Cherokee National Historical Society, Inc. (CNHS) is searching for an Executive Director. The successful applicant will have the following qualifications:
A broad knowledge of the history and culture of the Cherokee people and sensitivity to issues concerning the Cherokees and other Native American tribes.

Masters Degree in Liberal Arts with a Cherokee or American Indian concentration and/or museum management or related fields of study with American Indian/Cherokee concentration.

Five Years’ experience in successful management and supervising at least 30 employees with appropriate knowledge of personnel law and policies.

Must be able to communicate well; facilitate staff; work with designers, architects and contractors; co-ordinate an effective and aggressive development campaign which includes funding from tribal, federal and state governments, and corporate and individual donors; oversee expansion of educational opportunities, including distance learning; promote traditional and contemporary arts; and work co-operatively with other museums, tribal, inter-tribal, regional, state, national and international tourism groups to most effectively market the Heritage Center.

Should be able to read and report on financial statements.

CNHS, a 501(c)(3) membership organization, operates the Cherokee Heritage Center (CHC) – 44 beautiful acres south of Tahlequah, OK, the capitol of the Cherokee Nation. The Cherokee Heritage Center includes a living history ancient village, an 1890s Cherokee Nation town and farm, an amphitheatre, a chapel and the Cherokee National Museum which contains exhibits, a museum store, the Cherokee Family Research Center (genealogy library), and houses the National Archives of the Cherokee Nation. The CHC has a growing program of educational opportunities.

The Executive Director is the chief executive officer, authorized by and reporting to the Board of Trustees, and must understand and articulate the purposes of the Society to preserve and promote Cherokee history, traditions and culture and the Society’s goal of becoming the best and most visited tribally specific educational center in the world; have an excellent understanding of Cherokee culture, language and traditions; and the ability to present and interpret Cherokee culture for Cherokee people, as well as the general public, and possess a full knowledge of the strategic planning process. The salary range is $60,000 to $70,000, with benefits.

Interested candidates should e-mail a resume and cover letter. The letter should state the reasons the candidate is interested in this position, include a summary of relevant qualifications and salary requirements. Applications should be sent to info@cherokeeheritage.org

Grove Fall Festival

2005-08-12T22:08:00.000-05:00

Lee Brashear, Chamber of Commerce, Grove, Oklahoma called to ask us for help getting the word out that they are sponsoring a Fall Festival:

October 15, 2005. Place: Grove upper elementary school.

No booth cost to artist or craftspeople. There is a cost for food vendors. Ms. Brashear is looking for demonstration people to: Like basket makers or story tellers, musicians, etc.

She can be contacted at: cell no. 918-373-3375 or at fax no. 918-479-2837

You may also contact the Grove Chamber of Commerce President, John Taylor (he is also the Chief of Police) at this number: 918-479-8121.

Please send her contact information for artist or let the artist / crafters / etc. that you know about this opportunity.

Wado

Roy

More Heritage Center News

2005-08-12T21:56:00.000-05:00

August 10, 2005, Cherokee Artist Wins Prestigious Award

Victoria Mitchell Vazquez, Oklahoma Cherokee potter, recently received a fellowship award as visiting artist to the “Native Arts Program” from Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian. In August 2005, she will travel to Washington D.C., New York, Philadelphia and Boston to research their museum collections. Her area of study will include the pottery, artifacts and culture from the time periods of Woodland Culture, 1000 B.C. – A.D., the Mississippi Culture, 1000 – 1600 A.D. and Historic Culture, 1500 – 1800. Click here for more.

August 10, 2005, Pottery Auction of a Lifetime!

Triple A Auctions has contracted with us to have a huge “Everything Goes” auction at the Pottery Plant in Porum on August 27, 2005. It is roughly scheduled for 10:00am. The auction is open to everyone. All items must go--molds, mixers, green ware and even the kilns!

August 10, 2005, More Heritage Center Happenings

Heritage Center artist Tonia Weavel will be doing a Cherokee clothing lecture for the Cherokee County Home Extension group on August 23, 10 a.m. at the community building. It’s open to their membership. Kathryn has new t shirt designs in the museum store-- Tribal Tagz, Tiger and new CHC shirts galore. Kathy VanBuskirk will be teaching a round reed basket class September 17. Fee is $30 and pre registration is recommended.

August 10, 2005, Development Office Doings

Interim Development Director and Membership Director Wil Lowe talked to Kyle Smith from the RedWind Group. Inc. in Houston, TX about strategic planning activies for the Cherokee Heritage Center. Kyle is well-known for his work with Native American groups and planning. Wil will also attend a grant research seminar in Tulsa through the Oklahoma Center for Non-profits. Abigayle Tobia, formerly of Price Tower in Bartlesville, has accepted the Development Director position and will start September 5th. Welcome, Abigayle!

August 10, 2005, Artists and Crafters Helping the Center

North Carolina artist Betty McCullen is sending items she has made to the Heritage Center, like masks, arts, and crafts items to donate to the museum store. This will benefit the Cherokee Heritage Center. If you would like to donate new, Cherokee-related items instead of money to help benefit the Cherokee Heritage Center, please contact Kathy VanBuskirk at 888-999-6007.

August 10, 2005, Traditional Clothing Exhibit

We are proud to have on display Heritage center employee and artist Tonia Weavel’s exhibit of Cherokee clothing. Tonia mentored with Cherokee artist Wendell Cochran. The mentor program is made possible through the Cherokee Nation to pass along traditional arts and crafts from generation to generation. The Cherokee Heritage Center is proud to have staff who have participated in this program for many years. Tonia’s exhibit will be up through Cherokee Holiday. Again we congratulate her and Mr. Cochran on a wonderful job.

August 10, 2005, Flute Circle News

The last Flute Circle was a great success, with flute players and makers coming from Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. We were happy to have Cherokee flutemaker Jerry Fretwell come out and show everyone his wonderful flutes. Fretwell works with different woods and makes them in Missouri. The next Flute Circle will be August 19th from 7-9pm at the Cherokee Heritage Center.

We welcome everyone who plays, makes, or just has a curiosity about flutes. It's free for everyone. Also, check out our Museum Store for local flutemakers who create one-of-a-kind wood and rivercane flutes, including: Joyce Barnes, Darrel "Longhair" Bowin, Jerry Fretwell, Sonny Arm-in-Trout, and Tommy Wildcat.

News from the Center

2005-08-11T16:02:00.000-05:00

August 10, 2005, More Heritage Center Happenings

August 10, 2005, Development Office Doings

August 10, 2005, Artists and Crafters Helping the Center

August 10, 2005, Traditional Clothing Exhibit

August 10, 2005, Flute Circle News

August 9, 2005, First Families Welcome New Members

“It caught me off guard,” Dillon said. “They didn’t tell me we were doing this. It was very interesting to meet him.” Click here to read more.

August 8, 2005, New Team Member at the Heritage Center

We are pleased to announce a new team member at CHC, Lesa Rinehart, who has roots in this area, and recently moved back from Texas. Lesa will be the Group Tour Sales Coordinator. In other news, curator Mickel Yantz, archivist Tom Mooney, and Marketing Director Seth Davidson will be attending the Oklahoma Museums Association meeting. The Heritage Center has also sold out of food vendor spots for the CN Holiday, but have several arts and crafts spots remaining.

June 12, Julian Fite Memorial Fund

The board of trustees of the Cherokee National Historical Society, Inc. have established the Julian Fite Memorial Fund for the acquisition of materials and research into Cherokee law to be housed in the Cherokee National Archives.

Fite, general council for the Cherokee Nation, died June 2. He was also the vice president of the CNHS, the parent non-profit organization of the Cherokee Heritage Center. In response to the numerous contributions to Cherokee law made by Fite, the board decided the fund is an appropriate gesture to remember and honor Fite and the profession to which he dedicated his life. Click here for more information.

First Families of the Cherokee Nation Welcomes New Members

2005-08-04T11:17:00.000-05:00

When Austin Nash Dillon of Plano, Texas, decided to take a vacation with his grandparents, he had no idea he would end up sitting in the office of Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chad “Corntassel” Smith.

“It caught me off guard,” Dillon said. “They didn’t tell me we were doing this. It was very interesting to meet him.”

Dillon, a senior in high school and a member of his student-run school government, is very interested in learning about his Cherokee heritage.

“I think since it is my senior year, and especially before going to college, it is important for me to see where I come from,” said Dillon. “A large part of who I am goes back to my heritage.”

Chief Smith presented Dillon with a certificate to the First Families of the Cherokee Nation on behalf of the Cherokee Heritage Center.

“I’m working on our family genealogy,” said Dillon’s grandmother Wanda Dillon. “I joined the First Families and I wanted Austin and his sister to have their certificates as well.”

First Families of the Cherokee Nation is a unique organization operated by the Cherokee Heritage Center and its genealogy department, the Cherokee Family Research Center. It offers lifetime membership as a means of recognizing the early families who formed the Cherokee Nation. First Families is a heraldic society sponsored by the Cherokee National Historical Society Inc.

Gene Norris, CNHS genealogist, and a genealogy committee accept and approve applicants. Marjorie Lowe of Houston, Texas, a Cherokee historian, member of the FFCN and the Cherokee National Historical Society for many years, was instrumental in the formation of this organization and continues to support the society.

“We are pleased to have Austin and his family as members,” said genealogist Gene Norris. “It is always exciting when people show their appreciation and interest in their Cherokee ancestry. We currently have 610 members and counting.”

Membership in First Families is limited to those persons who can document their ancestor was a lawful resident of the Cherokee Nation, East or West, prior to the ratification of the Cherokee Nation Constitution on Sept., 6, 1839.

For more First Families information and applications, call the Cherokee Heritage Center’s genealogy department at (918) 456-6007, ext. 27 or send e-mails to genealogy@cherokeeheritage.org.

Cherokee Heritage Center Hosts Russian Delegation

2005-07-28T16:06:00.000-05:00

A delegation from Russia visited the Cherokee Heritage Center today to learn about our techniques for preserving and promoting Cherokee history and culture. Tulsa Global Alliance Program Director, Bob Lieser, said he brought this group of eight visitors to the Cherokee Heritage Center because they were interested in starting a similar site in Russia, or because they would like to learn how to better manage the site they currently have.

Our Russian guests enjoyed the various attractions at the Cherokee Heritage Center such as the Cherokee National Museum, Adams Corner Rural Village and the Tsa La Gi Ancient Village. They also spoke with Cherokee Heritage Center Curator Mickel Yantz, Director Richard A. Fields, and Education Director Tonia Hogner-Weavel. The group, made up of museum and preservation professionals, were very interested in learning more about Cherokee lifestyles stating they had heard bits and pieces from other people but wanted a first-hand experience of Cherokee daily life.

The Cherokee Heritage Center frequently welcomes visitors from around the world and would like to thank the Tulsa Global Alliance for their continued support.

The Great State of Sequoyah, 1905-2005: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow

2005-07-21T14:49:00.000-05:00

A conference for the general public will be held at the Cherokee Casino & Resort, September 4-5, 2005, in Catoosa, Oklahoma. This is a centennial celebration and history conference sponsored by the Great State of Sequoyah Commission and the Cherokee Nation during the Cherokee National Holiday Celebration. Commission members are:

Wilma P. Mankiller
Tom Holm
Daniel Littlefield
Rennard Strickland
Russell Thornton

For information contact: Richard L. Allen, Cherokee Nation, at (918) 456-0671 Ext. 2466 or rallen@cherokee.org

Traditional Clothing Exhibit

2005-07-12T16:11:00.000-05:00

Traditional Clothing: History, Styles, Materials and Methods: The display is on exhibit at the Cherokee Nation complex through the month of July and then it will be displayed at the Heritage Center.

Mr. Wendell Cochran is a gentleman of many talents: he is a self-taught artist, designer, decorator, Cherokee scholar, oral historian and a bona fide master of traditional Cherokee clothing. His creative genius and advanced skills extend to the farthest boundaries of his artistic field. Engaging over four decades of journeyman study and application, Mr. Cochran is a skilled tanner and has the knowledge to classify, harvest and process natural materials to make woven textiles, create cloth and thread, produce pigments and dyes, and fashion buttons, ornaments and accessories. Click here for rest of story.

Clothing Exhibit 1

Clothing Exhibit 2

Congress May Broaden Trail of Tears

2005-07-07T18:46:00.000-05:00

Congress may broaden the Trail of Tears through Northwest Arkansas, adding second routes near Fort Smith and Fayetteville. The plan could more than double the number of documented routes along the historic trail where Cherokee Indians traveled after being forcibly removed from the East Coast in 1838. The new bill outlining the routes was revealed the same day that the Senate Indian Affairs Committee unanimously advanced legislation to apologize for past mistreatment of American Indians.

Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chad Smith said he couldn't think of "any greater evidence" of the need for apology than the forced trek of more than 15,000 Cherokees along the Trail of Tears. "It's the sin of not learning from history that is unforgiving," he said in his remarks.

Burger Dinner

2005-07-05T12:10:00.000-05:00

Cherokee Heritage Center Staff were treated to a hamburgers-with-all-the-trimmings lunch by director Rick Fields. Cole slaw, beans, and pie rounded out the feast on June 22nd. Yum!

More photos from Special Benefit Opening

2005-06-23T11:04:00.000-05:00

Grape juice vendor

Cherokee flutes

Wine vendor

Cheyanne

Cheyanne 2

Emcee

Wine vendors

Rebecca

State of Sequoyah Voting Continues Apace

2005-06-22T11:23:00.000-05:00

Should Oklahoma have been one state or two? That's the million-dollar question that was so hotly debated a century ago, when Cherokees, Muskogees, Choctaws, Chickasaws, and Seminoles voted to establish the State of Sequoyah. Today we look back at that burning issue of the day with our current museum exhibit, and we allow you the chance to cast your vote either in the museum or online. Follow this link to vote online!

Registrations Coming in for Cherokee National Holiday

2005-06-21T10:50:00.000-05:00

Holiday vendors are starting to sign up, and we now have confirmed 6 food vendors and 12 craft booths for the biggest event in our calendar year--Cherokee National Holiday. We'll have jewelry, traditional goods, Cherokee language tapes, New Mexico Zuni Indians bringing in artwork and jewelry, and local Cherokees with traditional baskets and silver goods. Book vendors, t-shirts, Indian tacos, kettle corn, and other good food will make this a don't-miss event!

Trail of Tears Drama Special Benefit Opening a Huge Success!

2005-06-20T12:58:00.000-05:00

More than 150 guests showed up on Saturday afternoon to celebrate and support the opening of the annual Trail of Tears Drama. Guests enjoyed a wine tasting sponsored by Oklahoma wineries, a silent auction called by Ken Busby, president of the Oklahoma Museums Association, and a superb meal prepared by our very own Kathy and Perry Van Buskirk. It was fabulous! The event took place in Adams Corner Rural Village, and after it finished guests got to see the first performance of the drama, written by the Heritage Center's executive director Rick Fields. Click here for photo gallery.

Special Benefit Opening

2005-06-19T13:18:00.000-05:00

Tonight is the Special Benefit Opening for the Trail of Tears Drama. The event occurs at the Heritage Center, with a reception and dinner from 4:00-8:00, followed by a performance of the drama. This year's spectacle was written by Richard Fields. Be sure to join us for this fun event!

Trail of Tears Drama Dress Rehearsal

2005-06-18T09:23:00.000-05:00

Last night the cast of the annual Trail of Tears drama had a full dress rehearsal--it was awesome! This year's drama features stories and legends of the Cherokees--many of the stories are “stories-within-a-story,“ which adds to the dramatic effect. In one story, a modern family prepares to send its son off to war, and while he waits for a fellow soldier to pick him up, his grandmother tells a Cherokee legend. Combining the modern with the traditional makes this year's show one you won't want to miss! Click here to view photo gallery.

Photos from Houston Outreach Trip

2005-06-16T09:27:00.000-05:00

Archivist Tom Mooney, Interpretive Specialist Rex Smith, and Marketing Director Seth Davidson met in Houston the week before last to tour the private museum collection of board member K.S. “Bud“ Adams, Jr., and to make a presentation to the Cherokee Cultural Society of Houston.

Thanks to the hospitality of Mr. Adams and of Mrs. Marjorie Lowe, we were able to meet many people interested in the Center's mission, and to learn more about the Houston society. Rex gave a wonderful cultural presentation, explaining the use and construction of traditional bows, arrows, blowguns, pottery, and baskets. Click here for photo gallery of the trip.

Rex Smith in Houston

Cherokee Games Winners!

2005-06-16T09:24:00.000-05:00

Blowgun, 1st, Larry OosahweeBlowgun, 2nd, Danny McCarterBlowgun, 3rd, Jr. Oosahwee

Cornstalk Shoot, 1st, Curt SewellCornstalk Shoot, 2nd, Freddie FerrellCornstalk Shoot, 3rd, Terry Birdtail

Cornstalk photo, L to R: Curt Sewell, Freddie Ferrell, Terry Birdtail.

Cherokee Games Winners

Trail of Tears Drama Offers Family Entertainment

2005-06-13T17:27:00.000-05:00

It is time once again for the Cherokee Heritage Center’s annual production of the Trail of Tears drama. The family-friendly production begins Saturday, June 18, at 8 p.m. in the 1,800-seat Tsa La Gi Amphitheater located on the grounds of the Cherokee Heritage Center.

“Spending time with your family under the stars watching the Trail of Tears drama is a memorable experience,” said playwright Richard A. Fields. “It is a great way to get a taste of Cherokee culture, experience the pageantry of outdoor drama, and learn the story of the Cherokee removal.”

For several years numerous talented actors have performed under the night sky portraying the forced removal of the Cherokee people. This year, the new Trail of Tears drama will bring back the music, pageantry and spectacle missing from last year’s show. The new drama depicts several Cherokee myths and legends such as “Rabbit Eats with Bear” and “How Possum’s Tale Got Bare.” These stories, mixed with the removal and several aspects of Cherokee history, give the show a lighter feel that the entire family can enjoy.

“We listened to the feedback of our visitors,” said Fields. “The audiences missed the music and pageantry of previous dramas, and they wanted some lighter moments.”

Proving there is more to Cherokee history than the commonly thought of removal, known as the Trail of Tears, this year’s drama is filled with entertaining myths, legends, spectacle and dance.

“The hardest part of writing the drama was not what to write, but what not to write,” said Fields. “We wanted a story that told the story of the Trail of Tears, but was not so depressing that no one would want to hear it. We wanted to share our culture while respecting it, and this is hard to do in a short drama. The Cherokee story is too great to tell in one and a half hours, yet it is too important not to tell at all.”

Making the drama even more appealing to families is this year’s reduced ticket prices. Ticket prices have been reduced to $12 for adults, $6 for children (K – 12), and $10 for seniors (55 +) and college students (with ID). The Trail of Tears Drama opens June 18 and runs every Thursday, Friday and Saturday through September 3 at 8 p.m. with a special final performance on Sunday, September 4.

For more information on the Trail of Tears drama call (918) 456-6007, toll free at (888) 999-6007, or visit the Web site at www.cherokeeheritage.org.

Photos from BBC Film Crew Visit to Center

2005-06-13T13:33:00.000-05:00

BBC 1

BBC 2

BBC 3

BBC 4

BBC 5

BBC 6

BBC 7

BBC 8

Services for Julian Fite

2005-06-07T16:58:00.000-05:00

Funeral services for Julian Fite will be held on Monday, June 6, 2:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 500 W. Broadway, in Muskogee, OK.For a map, go to http://www.mapquest.com.
Bradley Funeral Service
1020 W Okmulgee St
Muskogee, OK 74401
(918) 682-3361

BBC Scotland Films Documentary at Cherokee Heritage Center

2005-06-07T16:30:00.000-05:00

Caledonia TV, a British Broadcasting Company of Scotland, visited the Cherokee Heritage Center Friday, June 3, to capture footage for their upcoming documentary on John Ross and the Five Civilized Tribes during his lifetime. The documentary, titled “Chief Braveheart,” is a historical documentary about Ross who was chief of the Cherokee Indians during the most tumultuous 40 years of the tribe's history.
The four-person camera crew interviewed Chief Chad Smith of the Cherokee Nation, Cherokee Heritage Center Executive Director Richard A. Fields, and Ancient Village interpreter Robert Lewis for their one-hour documentary. The crew also filmed numerous attractions at the Cherokee Heritage Center covering everything from Cherokee history and culture before European contact to the current state of the Cherokee Nation.
Caledonia TV specializes in productions such as documentaries, factual entertainment, history, science, current affairs, arts and education and children’s programs. For more information on the stations productions, visit www.caledonia-tv.com. While editing for “Chief Braveheart” is to be completed by the first of November, the documentary is not yet scheduled to air.
Every year, numerous people visit the Cherokee Heritage Center, in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, to learn more about Cherokee history and culture. The center is home to the Ancient Village, Adams Corner Rural Village, the Trail of Tears exhibit, the Cherokee National Museum, the Cherokee Family Research Center, Cherokee Heritage Tours and the Tsa La Gi Amphitheater, which was named one of America’s most beautiful outdoor theater venues. The center is devoted to the preservation and promotion of Cherokee history and culture through more than 30 annual events, two competitive art shows, various attractions and the highly-acclaimed “Trail of Tears” drama. The wide variety of activities offered help the Cherokee Heritage Center reach its goal of becoming the best, and most visited, tribally specific educational facility in the world.
To learn more about the Cherokee Heritage Center, call (918) 456-6007 or visit the Web site at www.cherokeeheritage.org.

Cherokee Film Festival

2005-06-06T14:31:00.000-05:00

Cherokee International Film Festival

Please mark your calendar for Friday, October 14, 2005. The International Cherokee Film Festival workshop on multi-media will be a great one for all the Cherokee Nation information systems staff and employees. You can check out the website at www.internationalcherokeefilmfestival.com for the workshop’s exact location, which will posted soon.

1 pm - 2:30 pm Friday, October 14Speaker: Marsha Kinder, Ph.D. Professor USC School Of Cinema - Television Director, The Labyrinth Project, USC Annenberg Center for Communication Los Angeles, California

Marble Players at Heritage Center

2005-06-05T07:57:00.000-05:00

Cherokee players of traditional marbles have been coming to the center for more than twenty years in the summer months to enjoy this game.

Passing of Trustee Julian Fite

2005-06-04T02:53:00.000-05:00

We at the Cherokee Heritage Center are celebrating the life of board member Julian K. Fite who died today in Oklahoma City. In addition to being the vice president of our board of trustees, Julian served as a friend, mentor and supporter of the Cherokee Heritage Center and its employees.

“When we lose someone like Julian Fite, we are left with a void and we wonder if it will ever be filled,” said Executive Director Richard A. Fields. “Julian was a strong advocate for Cherokees, not only in the legal system, but in preserving our culture and promoting Cherokee arts. His strong belief was expressed by his years of service on the Cherokee National Historical Society, Inc. Board of Trustees, and his unwavering support for the Trail of Tears Drama.”

Julian’s life has left an incredible impact on the face of the Cherokee Nation and the United States. At the time of his death he served as General Council for the Cherokee Nation and as Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice at Northeastern State University. He was a member of the Oklahoma and Virginia Bar Associations, the American Bar Association and the Muskogee County Bar Association.

Traces of the greatness of Julian’s life can be seen in the work he accomplished as a member of several organizations. Not only has he been an active member of our board of trustees for the past eight years, but he was a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, a member of the the Nature Conservancy, the National Association of Former U.S. Attorneys, First Presbyterian Church, the Oklahoma Wildlife Federation, the Tahlequah Chamber of Commerce, the Arts Council of Tahlequah and Common Cause – American Civil Liberties Union. He previously served as the Oklahoma State District Attorney and was appointed by the President of the United States as the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.

“As saddened as I am on a personal level, the loss to Cherokees everywhere is profound because of his knowledge, support, and optimism,” said Fields. “The staff of the Cherokee Heritage Center will miss him greatly, and we extend our heartfelt sympathies to his family.”

Heritage Center Artist at Smithsonian

2005-06-02T17:54:00.000-05:00

Cherokee National Treasure and Heritage Center employee Kathy Van Buskirk just completed a turtle-design, honeysuckle basket for inclusion in the traveling exhibit, “Carriers of the Culture.” This exhibit will be on the road for 2 years, and in 2006 will be at the Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C. Kathy's basekt and the exhibit will also be shown at the Red Earth festival in Oklahoma City. Carriers of the Culture is a western Cherokee basketry design group, funded in part from Michigan State University. The project is designed to show contemporary arts and activities among western Cherokees. There will be other baskets by basket weavers such as Peggy Brennan, along with young artists such as Kristin Smith, who was Miss Cherokee in 2003.

Ancient Village Work Day

2005-06-01T14:35:00.000-05:00

May 31, Tuesday, Ancient Village Work Day

Eight volunteers, including three tribal councilors, showed up on Saturday to get their hands dirty and to help us create a food storage shelter in the ancient village. Volunteers also helped patch up some of the old summer huts. The food shelter is a box on stilts above the ground that protects food from animals; this was an important device to protect foodstuffs such as venison, fruit, and vegetables. Thanks to all for helping out and contributing financially to the cause of Cherokee culture!

Donation from Dr. Mahaney!

2005-05-31T14:39:00.000-05:00

May 26, Thursday, Wonderful Donation Received by Dr. James Mahaney

Dr. James Mahaney, supporter of the Cherokee Heritage Center and a local optometrist, has donated two rows of theater seats for the upcoming State of Sequoyah Exhibit. These seats came from the old Thompson Theatre downtown, and were used for decades here in Tahlequah. The seats let us bring Tahlequah history into the exhibit--it is through these community partnerships that help us continue with our mission throughout the year. Thanks, Dr. Mahaney!

Trail of Tears Art Show Ends on May 29!

2005-05-26T12:15:00.000-05:00

Trail of Tears Art Show 2005

The 34th Annual Trail of Tears Art Show and Sale will be shown at the Cherokee National Museum, located on the grounds of the Cherokee Heritage Center, through May 29. All work is for sale but can not be removed until the closing of the show. For more information on this prestigious show and other Cherokee Heritage Center events, call (918) 456-6007, or toll free at (888) 999-6007.

Click Here to Visit the Trail of Tears Art Show Online Gallery!

Special Benefity Opening Proceeds Apace!

2005-05-26T09:49:00.000-05:00

The Heritage Center kicks off its annual summer Trail of Tears Drama with a special benefit opening that includes a reception, silent auction, and dinner in Adams Corner Rural Village on June 18, from 4:30 to 8:00. Hope to see you there!!

Ancient Village Work Day

2005-05-26T09:48:00.000-05:00

Several communities will come together on Saturday, May 28, to do repair and restoratio work on one of Tahlequah’s oldest attractions, the Cherokee Heritage Center’s Ancient Village. Cherokee Tribal Council members Audra Smoke-Conner from District 1, Don Garvin from District 4 and Cara Cowan from District 7 will bring with them several volunteers from their districts to help preserve this piece of Cherokee history. Click here for more...

E-Commerce at Heritage Center

2005-05-25T10:54:00.000-05:00

StoreIT Guru Will Burgess is working with the computer whiz team at the Cherokee Nation to help get our museum store online. We've narrowed it down to a couple of providers, and should have shopping carts and online inventory up and ready in the next week. No more clicking on that “Shop“ link and getting one of those annoying “Coming Soon“ notices!

Ticket Pricing Survey

2005-05-25T10:53:00.000-05:00

We're asking to take a moment of your time and do a quick, 2-question survey. How much would you pay for a Trail of Tears Drama ticket? Click here to take survey

Archival Materials Available Online

2005-05-23T09:19:00.000-05:00

The Heritage Center's web site now has a number of archival materials available. Check our learn/history section of the web site. More of these fascinating letters and documents are in the process of being scanned and uploaded.

Hog Fry and Gospel Sing a Success!

2005-05-23T09:18:00.000-05:00

Saturday night over two hundred people visited the Heritage Center to hear gospel music and enjoy the hog fry prepared by Perry Van Buskirk. Socializing among friends, enjoying the great music, and working up a big appetite were all the “order of the day.“ Thanks to everyone who came, and thanks to the Heritage Center staffers who helped pull off the event!

Historic Photos Added to Site

2005-05-23T09:17:00.000-05:00

We've just added over 100 historic photos of the ancient village to the web site. Check these images and see if there's anyone there you recognize. How things have changed!

Flute Circle News

2005-05-22T09:19:00.001-05:00

Last night's Cherokee Flute Circle hosted twelve area flutists and flutemmakers here at the Heritage Center. All were eager to play, talk about their craft, exchange tips and hints, and enjoy one another's performances. The next meeting will be on June 17, at 7:00 at the Heritage Center. Everyone is invited, beginner to expert to never played at all.

Cherokee Artists Association Meeting

2005-05-22T09:19:00.000-05:00

On Thursday night, the Cherokee Artists Association met at the Heritage Center for the first time. This group is dedicated to preserving, learning, teaching, and marketing Cherokee art. They discussed the success of the Chattanooga Public Art Project completed by the Gadugi Cherokee Artists Team. The project allowed Cherokee artists from Tahlequah to display and market their artwork to an urban audience that they would otherwise not have been able to reach. Thursday's discussion laid the groundwork for future marketing projects, and promises to bring Cherokee artists together and enhance their exposure. The next meeting will be held at the Heritage Center on June 9 at the Community Hall behind the Cherokee Restaurant at 6:30.

Eli Nofire to Attend Gospel Sing

2005-05-21T15:37:00.000-05:00

Eli Nofire, respected Cherokee elder employed with the Heritage Center for years, the person who formed the Heritage Singers, the man who managed Adams Corner, and the brother of Sam Nofire, suffered a stroke last year. He has made astounding progress in his recovery, has enjoyed time at home with his wife Mary (who we also adore), practiced writing Cherokee as part of his recovery and rehabilitation. Eli speaks, reads, and writes fluent Cherokee, and is one of the greatest cultural ambassadors that we have. It is our pleasure to announce that he wil likely be at the Gospel Sing tomorrow! Eli, we look forward to seeing you!

Gospel Sing Attendees

2005-05-20T09:41:00.000-05:00

The Gospel Sing on Saturday, beginning at 3 p.m., will feature the following groups:
Cherokee Flute Circle
Cummings Family
DD Etchison
DJ & the Cherokee Choir
Euwausha
Kenwood
Emanuel
Girty Family Singers
Kingfisher 3rd Generation
Kingfisher Quartet
Melody Aires
Nofire Family
Providence
Sonja Hartness
Trinity

Hog Fry and Gospel Sing

2005-05-19T07:53:00.000-05:00

Get ready for our intergalactically-famous Hog Fry and Gospel Sing, this Saturday at the Heritage Center, from 4-8 p.m.What is a hog fry, you may be wondering? Perry Van Buskirk cooks the world's tastiest pig and seasons it with flavors that will blow you away. Sponsored by BancFirst and Mrs. Smith's Bakery, you're in for a treat!! You elbow your way into the line to make sure you get yours, and you get servings of brown beans, fried bread, corn, and cobbler, and if you're still hungry, there's more (and you have a severe eating problem). Oh, one last small detail...it's free. We also enjoy gospel music by local Cherokee musicians and singers. Join us!!

Art Power for kids at the Heritage Center

2005-05-18T08:18:00.000-05:00

Seventh grade students from Bell School, Adair County, enjoyed the day at the Cherokee Heritage Center. Thanks to a partnership grant from the Oklahoma Arts Council, students were able to visit the Ancient Village, Cherokee National Museum and Adams Corner Rural Village. Students learned of Cherokee government and education and were treated to an art project. Read more here...

Museum Discount Booklets Now Available

2005-05-18T08:17:00.000-05:00

The Cherokee Heritage Center now has area museum discount booklets. These booklets allow you to visit twelve other area museums and received discounts on either admission or at the museum gift store. They have over $80 worth of discounts and reduced admissions, and cost $5. Contact our museum store at 918-456-6007 to get yours, or be sure to ask for one when you arrive at the center.

Cherokee Heritage Center featured in USA Weekend

2005-05-17T09:59:00.000-05:00

May 16, Monday
The Cherokee Heritage Center was featured in a weekend story yesterday by USA Today. “How the Cherokee people arrived in eastern Oklahoma from southern Appalachia is not a pretty story. What they did once they got there is a triumph of the human spirit. Upon arriving in Tahlequah in 1838 at the end of the 800-mile Trail of Tears, the people built a public school system, published bilingual newspapers and enacted representative government -- 70 years before Oklahoma gained statehood. Today, Tahlequah is the political, cultural and commercial capital of both the Cherokee Nation, the country's second-largest tribe, and the United Keetoowah Band. At the Cherokee Heritage Center in nearby Park Hill, visitors can learn history, research genealogy, take nature tours, watch performances and explore re-created villages. Its very existence is a tribute to the perseverance of the Cherokee and, by extension, all Native Americans.“

Loom Weaving Class May 21

2005-05-17T06:52:00.000-05:00

Education Director Tonia Weavel is gearing up for her cultural class on Loom Weaving for May 21. Learn more about this traditional craft, and have a try yourself. Classes require pre-registration. Call Tonia at 918-456-6007 x 31. These classes are a fantastic way to learn about Cherokee culture and heritage, and to improve or start a new hobby. Set in the beautiful location of the Heritage Center, you'll also get to enjoy how lovely things are now that spring has really, really sprung. Join us!

34th Annual Trail of Tears Art Show Winners Announced

2005-05-17T06:45:00.000-05:00

The winners of the 34th Annual Trail of Tears Art Show were announced Saturday, April 30, at an awards ceremony held at the Cherokee Heritage Center.

The show features more than 200 works from 134 artists. These talented artists competed for more than $10,000 in prize money in the following seven categories: Painting, Graphics, Sculpture, Miniatures, Basketry, Pottery, and Trail of Tears Theme.First, second and third prizes were awarded in all seven categories, as well as a Grand Award and numerous Honorable Mentions. This year’s Grand Award winner is K. Henderson for her painting “Son of the Earth.”

When asked about her winning entry, Henderson said, “It’s kind of a typical piece of what I’m doing now. I go through old photos of the Plains Indians in their more elaborate outfits and then I simplify them to match my style. This painting is based on an outfit I saw.”Henderson strives to include a lot of emotion in her art, compelling the viewer to take a deeper look.“I try not to dictate what the viewer should see,” said Henderson. “I leave it up to the viewer to get out of the painting what they can. They make up their own stories and emotions. I try to get a deep emotion but leave it up to the viewer what that emotion is.”

Henderson received $1,500 for the grand prize award. Other cash prizes were also given to the first, second and third prize winners in all seven categories. First place received $600, second received $400, and third place received $200. Guests of the show can vote on their favorite works for the highly sought after People’s Choice Award.

This award earns the artist $100.These cash awards were made possible by show sponsors Bank of Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Arts Council.

Loom Weaving Class

2005-05-16T11:51:00.000-05:00

Trail of Tears Art Show Members' Reception

2005-04-25T14:50:00.000-05:00

Our new web site is up, courtesy of the hard work of Will Burgess and the Cherokee Nation--particularly their IT crew of Tonia, Kelly, and Ben. Check it out at http://www.cherokeeheritage.org.

Members are invited to a free reception this coming Friday, from 6-8 p.m., to preview the work in this year's art show. An awards ceremony will be held the following day at noon at the Center.

Heritag Center Welcomes Veterans Home

2005-04-21T11:24:00.000-05:00

On Friday, yes tomorrow, the city is hosting a “Troop Welcome Home Parade” for our people coming back from Iraq.

It will begin at the Tahlequah rodeo grounds at 10:10am and drive past the Willis Rd/62H intersection at 10:21. We would also like to create/draw some posters that we can wave. Any suggestions or volunteers to help create these posters would be appreciated.

We will leave the center around 10am and should be back no later than 10:30. Everyone leaving should call us and let us put your name on the list and meet at the front doors (genealogy) at 10am.

Thanks for helping us welcome home our brave servicemen and women!
Susan

Join Chief Smith and Council Members for Cleanup Day at Heritage Center

2005-04-21T11:06:00.000-05:00

Join Chief Chad Smith and Cherokee Tribal Council members Cara Cowan, Don Garvin and Audra Smoke-Conner for the upcoming Ancient Village Workdays in honor of National Volunteer Week. Several communities will come together May 7 and 28 to restore one of Tahlequah’s oldest attractions, the Cherokee Heritage Center’s Ancient Village.

The Ancient Village has been and remains the oldest and most enduring attraction at the Cherokee Heritage Center. It opened in 1967 as the first part of a four-phase project that was to become the Cherokee Heritage Center. This site was selected because it was the original location of the Cherokee Female Seminary. At the time, it was an all but forgotten piece of land five miles outside of Tahlequah. Trees and dense undergrowth made it nearly impossible to view the remains of the seminary columns. Today, the Cherokee Heritage Center’s Ancient Village serves as a living example of Cherokee history for the thousands of people who visit annually.

“The Cherokee Heritage Center is extremely important to the Cherokee Nation and is the backbone for public education and cultural documentation of our peoples,” said Cowan.

In a continual effort to improve upon the existing structure of the village, the Cherokee Heritage Center created the workdays in conjunction with the Cherokee Tribal Council.

“I saw there was a need for volunteers to do work at the heritage center,” said Cowan. “The Ancient Village continually needs review for historical accuracy and will always need maintenance.”

Workday events include re-roofing some of the existing huts, building food shelters, weaving baskets, creating pottery and more.

“There are projects for every age group,” said Ancient Village Curator Mickel Yantz. “We encourage the community to come be involved in restoring a piece of Cherokee culture.”

The Ancient Village workdays are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. For more information, call Mickel Yantz at (918) 456-6007, ext. 23 or send e-mail to exhibits@cherokeeheritage.org.

Southeastern Beadwork, Continued

2005-04-18T17:16:00.000-05:00

Those who know me well, know that I have dedicated my empty nest yearsto the revival of Southeastern Woodlands beadwork. If this revival isto be successful, we must enable people to recognize Southeasternbeadwork.

To that end, I am constantly seeking opportunities to placeimages of Southeastern beadwork where people can see them. With the help of my intrepid husband/photographer/printer/web pagemanager . . . we have come up with two new products that do just that!We have added note cards and refrigerator magnets to the web page,and you can use the shopping cart feature to order them online.

The note cards are printed on high quality, silk finished, whitepaper. The folded notes, which are blank inside, measure 4 ½" x 5 ¼".There are four notes and four envelopes in each packet. You mayselect from a packet of four bandolier bag images or four moccasin images.The frig magnets are approximately 2" x 3", depending on the image. They are printed on high quality, white magnet stock. They come inpackets of four, with an assortment of images: 2-bandolier bag,1-moccasin and 1-beaded design. The assortment will vary depending oninventory.Check out the notes and magnets at:http://berrybeadwork.com/notecards_magnets.html

By Martha Berry

Cultural Class: Beadwork

2005-04-16T10:18:00.000-05:00

Today Wanda taught beadwork at the Heritage Center, and also displayed some of her exceptional work as examples. Click here for photos.

Incredible beadwork!!

Heritage Center Awash in Blooms, Too!

2005-04-16T10:15:00.000-05:00

The beauty of white and pink dogwood is filling the Heritage Center grounds. Visit us with your camera to capture the beauty--mornings and evenings are best for natural lighting. Click here for photos.

d

Flute Circle Plays

2005-04-16T09:16:00.000-05:00

The Cherokee Flute Circle met again in the chapel at the Heritage Center and enjoyed an evening of music and camaraderie. Click here for photos.

Happy flute player

Flute playing in the chapel

Expert sounds!

Indian Territory Days 2

2005-04-15T13:55:00.000-05:00

The second grand day of Indian Territory Days has just wrapped up--over 300 kids visitied the Heritage Center to learn about the old ways and the old days.

Click here for photos.
At today's blowgun practice, the following kids hit the bullseye on their very first try:

Blake O'Dell
Cherokee Anderson
Bobbie Morgan
Bradley Miller
Ronnie Anderson
Wendell Huggins
Timber Collett
Billy Halloran
Barbara Burga

Congratulations!!

Arrowheads

Cherokee Country Awash in Blooms

2005-04-15T11:37:00.000-05:00

The Cherokee Heritage Center is busting out in bloom, and so is the entirety of Cherokee Country. These photos were taken this morning at Honor Heights Park in Muskogee. Click here for photos.

Clean-up Day in Claremore

2005-04-15T10:16:00.000-05:00

The Rogers County Cherokee Community will be working to clear the remainder of scrub brush and fence the land this weekend. If you can assist, please see the following.

In-kind Donations Needed:
(4) spools of barbless wire
T-posts
*Note: Cash donations are always welcome. Please make checks to RCCA and provide a return address if donation receipt is needed.

Work Being Completed:
Backhoe used for Clearing
Brush Hogging
Pulling Fence
Repairing Fence
Building Fence Corners

Work Times:Saturday, 9am to 1pm
Sunday, Noon to 4pm

Volunteer Contact for April 16th Weekend, only:
John Yocham
H: (918) 341-6496
C: (918) 740-1369

Indian Territory Days--Day One

2005-04-14T14:44:00.000-05:00

Imagine the Cherokee Heritage Center museum and grounds filled with kids, all learning about traditional Cherokee lifestyles and Cherokee history. Well, you won't have to imagine--just click here for photos to see the whole thing.

This event, put on by education director Tonia Hogner-Weavel, was a smash success--as you can see by the pictures! Tomorrow the fun continues. And if you're a boy and you think you are going to win at stickball, the girls are going to prove you WRONG!

Welcome to Indian Territory Days!!

Going for broke with stickball!!

Outta my way!

Kathy VanBuskirk weaving

Perry VanBuskirk

Blowgun action!!

Chunking the chunkey

Wild Onion Dinner a Big Succes

2005-04-14T08:08:00.000-05:00

Yesterday's Wild Onion Dinner fundraiser, conceived by Kathy Van Buskirk and put on with the help of the staff, was a huge success. Food sold out early and a run had to be made down to the store to replenish and feed hungry appetites. Thanks to all who came and to all who helped.

Indian Territory Days Happen This Thurs/Fri

2005-04-12T16:07:00.000-05:00

On Thursday and Friday of this week the Cherokee Heritage Center welcomes over 500 schoolkids from all over Oklahoma to our Indian Territory Days event. Look for educational activities that include an outdoor classroom with hands-on activities such as blowgun shooting, stickball, chunkey, a Cherokee language station, Trail of Tears museum tours, traditional storytelling, and self-guided tours through the ancient village. They'll see tools, weapons, basketry, ceremonial grounds, and traditional Cherokee homes. Volunteers from Bacone College in Muskogee and our regular dedicated volunteers--Nellie and Curtis Hunt, among others--will assist with this great event.

Beadwork Workshop to be Held at the Cherokee Heritage Center

2005-04-12T10:23:00.000-05:00

Skilled artisan Wanna Lou Barton will teach students the art of beading on Saturday, April 16, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Cherokee Heritage Center. Students will learn basic beading techniques and Cherokee history pertaining to the beaded items they make.
Early registration for this workshop is recommended as class size is limited. The $30 fee includes tuition and all materials.

Barton’s appearance is part of a series of cultural classes offered by the Cherokee Heritage Center. The remaining classes are: May 21, Loom Weaving; June 11, Tear Dress Making; Sept. 17, Round Reed Basketry; Oct. 8, Southeastern Pottery; Nov. 5, Flint Knapping & Blowguns; Dec. 3, Gourd Carving.

For registration, or more information, call Tonia Hogner-Weavel at the Cherokee Heritage Center at (918) 456-6007, toll free at (888) 999-6007, or e-mail her at education@cherokeeheritage.org.

Free Admission on Cherokee Saturday

2005-03-24T11:25:00.000-06:00

On the first Saturday of every month members of all federally recognized Cherokee tribes, and one guest, are admitted free to the Cherokee Heritage Center museum and villages. The next Cherokee Saturday is Saturday, April 2.

This is the last Cherokee Saturday to view the highly-acclaimed Cherokee Athletes exhibit. Like most athletic events, the exhibit will end with a closing ceremony. This ceremony will take places from 10 a.m. to noon on Cherokee Saturday. All who participated in and contributed to this successful exhibit are invited to attend the ceremony to enjoy refreshments and a final look at the history of Cherokee athleticism. From the brutal origins of stickball to modern athletics events, sports have played a prominent role in Cherokee culture. The Cherokee Athletes exhibit showcases the past and present, and pays tribute to the many Cherokee athletes who helped shape the world of sports.

Every year, numerous people visit the Cherokee Heritage Center, in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, to learn more about Cherokee history and culture. The center is home to the Ancient Village, Adams Corner Rural Village, the Trail of Tears exhibit, the Cherokee National Museum, the Cherokee Family Research Center, Cherokee Heritage Tours and the Tsa La Gi Amphitheater, which was named one of America’s most beautiful outdoor theater venues. The center is devoted to the preservation and promotion of Cherokee history and culture through more than 30 annual events, two competitive art shows, various attractions and the Trail of Tears Drama. The wide variety of activities offered help the Cherokee Heritage Center to reach its goal of becoming the best and most visited tribally specific educational facility in the world.

Guests can also learn more about their heritage thanks to the newly developed genealogy workshops, sponsored by Bartlesville Office Supply, held once a month at the Cherokee Heritage Center. On the first Saturday of every month experienced genealogist Roy Hamilton will be available at 11 a.m. to offer instruction on the numerous resources available for tracing one’s family history. While these workshops are free to tribal members on Cherokee Saturday, advanced registration is required.

The Ancient Village offers guided tours through a replica of a Cherokee village as it would have appeared before European contact. Visitors can witness Cherokee people performing the daily activities of their ancestors.

Adams Corner Rural Village represents the lifestyles of the Cherokee people in the late 1800’s. Visitors can take a self-guided tour through the seven historical buildings that make up this replica of a Cherokee village.

Through the Trail of Tears Exhibit visitors can learn more about the tragic journey known as the Trail of Tears traveled by the Cherokee and four other tribes. Through special effects lighting, videos, audio recordings, art work, life cast figures and holograms, this exhibit gives a detailed account of the Trail of Tears, a tragedy that has become a symbol for the suffering of all Indian people.

The Museum Store offers a wide variety of books, apparel, jewelry, and other native arts and crafts.

For more information on Cherokee Saturday or on the Cherokee Heritage Center, call (918) 456-6007, toll free at (888) 999-6007 or visit the Web site at www.cherokeehertage.org.

Cherokee Athletes Exhibit Reception

2005-03-24T11:05:00.000-06:00

Only one month remains to view the highly-acclaimed Cherokee Athletes exhibit at the Cherokee Heritage Center. On April 25, the exhibit will be removed to make way for the 34th Annual Trail of Tears Art Show and Sale.

Like most athletic events, the exhibit will end with a closing ceremony Saturday, April 2, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Cherokee Heritage Center. All who participated in and contributed to this successful exhibit are invited to attend the ceremony to enjoy refreshments and a final look at the history of Cherokee athleticism.

From the brutal origins of stickball to modern athletics events, sports have played a prominent role in Cherokee culture. The Cherokee Athletes exhibit showcases the past and present, and pays tribute to the many Cherokee athletes who helped shape the world of sports.

For more information on the Cherokee Athletes exhibit and reception, call the Cherokee Heritage Center at (918) 456-6007, toll free at (888) 999-6007, or e-mail Mickel Yantz, curator at exhibits@cherokeeheritage.org.

Flat Reed Cherokee Basketry Class

2005-03-24T11:00:00.000-06:00

Skilled artisan Peggy Brennan will give instruction on making a traditional flat reed Cherokee basket as part of a series of traditional cultural workshops offered by the Cherokee Heritage Center. This comprehensive workshop is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 2.

Students will learn basic flat reed weaving techniques and receive information on patterns, reed, dyes and Cherokee basketry history. Brennan will share many valuable resources with students wishing to learn more about basket weaving and improve their skill.
Early registration for this workshop is recommended as class size is limited. The $30 fee includes tuition and all materials.

Brennan’s appearance is part of a series of cultural classes offered by the Cherokee Heritage Center. The following classes are: April 16, Beadwork; May 21, Loom Weaving; June 4, Blowgun & Corn Stalk Shoot; June 11, Tear Dress Making; Sept. 17, Round Reed Basketry; Sept. 24, Marbles, Stickball & Chunkey; Oct. 8, Southeastern Pottery; Nov. 2, Flint Knapping & Blowguns; Dec. 3, Gourd Carving.

For registration, or more information, call Tonia Hogner-Weavel at the Cherokee Heritage Center at (918) 456-6007, toll free at (888) 999-6007, or e-mail her at education@cherokeeheritage.org.

Wild Onion Dinner

2005-03-24T10:57:00.000-06:00

The Cherokee Heritage Center will host a wild onion fundraising dinner at the Tahlequah Community Building, Wednesday, April 13 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. All proceeds will be used to help the Cherokee Heritage Center continue its mission of preserving and promoting Cherokee history and culture.

Each wild onion plate will come with brown beans, chicken and dumplings, fry bread, dessert and tea. Tickets may be purchased at the door or in advance for $5. Delivery is available to local businesses with five or more orders and advance reservations.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call the Cherokee Heritage Center at (918) 456-6007.

Cherokee Artist Wins Award!

2005-03-17T15:32:00.000-06:00

Osiyo Collectors, Friends and Family!

I am honored to announce that I came home from the 2005 Heard Fair and Indian Market with a ribbon! The bandolier bag entitled "A Whisper From the Mounds" won an Honorable Mention in the Cultural Items Division. I am honored and grateful.

Here is a link to the winning bandolier bag:

http://berrybeadwork.com/bandoliers_whisper.html

While in the Phoenix area, I also had the pleasure of doing a museum talk at the Bead Museum in Glendale, AZ. It is a great museum with a wonderful staff. I appreciate the opportunity to touch new hearts with the beauty and history of traditional Southeastern Woodlands
beadwork.

As always, thanks for your interest and support, mkb

Martha Berry
Cherokee Beadwork Artist
berrybeadwork@hotmail.com
http://www.berrybeadwork.com/

Trail of Tears Drama Auditions Scheduled

2005-03-17T14:59:00.000-06:00

Auditions are being held for the Cherokee Heritage Center’s annual outdoor production of the Trail of Tears drama. The drama tells the legends, traditions and history of the Cherokee people with enthusiasm and spectacle. All roles are open for casting. Parts are available for a wide age range of actors. All roles will be paid, and most actors will be cast as multiple characters.

The auditions will be held Friday, April 1, from 5:30 to 9 p.m., Saturday, April 2, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, April 3, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Tsa La Gi Amphitheater located on the grounds of the Cherokee Heritage Center. Actors are required to prepare a two-minute contemporary monologue, vocalists should prepare a one-minute presentation and all participants should bring resumes and headshots if available. While dancing is required for the production, dance auditions will not be held.

The Trail of Tears drama will run Thursday through Saturday evenings June 18 through Sept. 4. A special Sunday performance will be held Sept. 4 in recognition of the Cherokee National Holiday. The Trail of Tears drama, written by Richard A. Fields, will be directed by Roy and Barbara Rains.

For further information regarding the Trail of Tears drama, please contact the Cherokee Heritage Center at (918) 456-6007 or toll free at (888) 999-6007.

Savannah College Students Visit Cherokee Heritage Center

2005-03-17T09:18:00.000-06:00

Savannah College Students learn basketmaking with Robert Lewis. A group of students from the Savannah College of Textiles and Design visited the Cherokee Heritage Center yesterday and studied basketry with Robert Lewis.

Complete photo gallery is at http://www.wildsteps.com/chc/savannah_college/index.htm

Savannah College Student

Savannah College Student

Savannah College Student

Savannah College Student

Norwegian Students Visit Cherokee Heritage Center

2005-03-17T08:35:00.000-06:00

Yesterday we had a large group of students from Norway tour the ancient village, Adams Corner, and national museum. They were on a school trip, touring the U.S., and stopped in Tahlequah en route to 6 Flags in Dalls.

For a complete photo gallery, check http://www.wildsteps.com/chc/norwegians_mar_2005/index.htm

Norwegian Student 1

Norwegian Student 2

Norwegian Student 3

Norwegian Student 4

Cherokee Flute Performance

2005-03-17T07:42:00.000-06:00

Cherokee Flute Performance at the Amphitheatre, March 26, 2005 from 7-9 p.m. at the Cherokee Heritage Center. Free admission. For more info contact 918-456-6007, or tommywildcat@hotmail.com

Cherokee Cousin from Oregon

2005-03-16T10:01:00.000-06:00

Well, I too have a great-great-grandmother who was Cherokee from Tennessee. Her name was Eliza Bright. She was my grandfather's grandmother. I do have all the documentation, no matter how ephemeral this story sounds, and indeed started out for me! Her brother is listed on the rolls, but of course that doesn't translate to my having a CDIB.
Still, I know her name, and I heard about her from my grandfather, Virgil Taylor.

Sandra de Helen
Portland, Oregon

Utsunomiya Visits Tahlequah

2005-03-14T17:11:00.000-06:00

Students from Utsunomiya's Kita High School visited the Cherokee Heritage Center today, toured the ancient village with Rachel Dew, were given a tour of Adams Corner, and enjoyed a Cherokee lunch after touring the museum. They're going back to Japan tomorrow--itte rasshai!!

Click here to view the PHOTO GALLERY

Posted by Seth

Utsunomiya's Kita High School Visits Cherokee Heritage Center!

Japanese student

Japanese student

Japanese Student

Japanese Student

Searching for Cherokee Connections in Illinois

2005-03-11T09:15:00.000-06:00

"Mom", who was actually my paternal Grandmother, was born in Southern IL in 1910. So far as anyone in the family (now living) knows, she always believed she was the daughter of the Smith family. My Grandmother was raised as Opal Nokomis SMITH, and told that her father was Cherokee and her mother was "Indian with a little French, and the French was from way back."

It was always important to my Grandmother that I, her only granddaughter, learn all I could about our heritage. I took notes as she talked and then promptly stuck them away in my family bible. My Grandmother passed away in 1991, still believing she was the daughter of the Smiths who raised her.

About two years after the passing of my Grandmother I became interested in genealogy and the search began.

Both my brother and I had serious doubts about the story of the "Cherokee father, Indian mother" in pertaining to the Smith's. Things simply were not adding up with the information I was obtaining. The father who raised my Grandmother may have had some Indian blood from several generations back and there were rumors the mother could have had a little as well. The doubts accumulated as we began to put pieces together. For one thing my Grandmother was an only child for this couple, they had one stillborn infant prior to my Grandmother's birthdate. In 1910 my grandmother was bottle fed, I still have her baby bottle.

My Grandmother was quite dark, eyes, hair and skin, neither of the Smith's compared. Then a couple of years into my search, a genealogist friend of mine decided to look into this frustrating situation for me. It was discovered that my Grandmother came into the Smith household in the year of her birth with the name Selva COX. There apparently was no legal adoption or paperwork of any kind. So Selva was "taken in" and her name changed to Opal Nokomis Smith...and my Grandmother never knew she was not the biological child of the couple who raised her.

The search continues, I have gained little ground since discovering the Selva to Opal name change. The only relatives still living are all younger than my grandmother and have no information to offer. I have attempted to follow any lead or advice offered with no success.

Still searching in Illinois!
Robin Roberts

Infant Selva Opal

Selva Opal as an adult

Upcoming Spring Genealogy Seminar Expected to be Best Ever

2005-03-11T08:27:00.000-06:00

The Cherokee Heritage Center is hosting its fourth annual genealogy seminar, “Genealogy of Hope: How the Cherokee Survived." The workshop will be held April 9, 2005 at the Tsi-la-gi Community Room behind the Cherokee Nation Gift Shop in Tahlequah.

This year’s guest speakers include genealogist David Keith Hampton, who will speak on the families and descendants of those Cherokee recorded in Emmett Starr‘s “History of the Cherokee Indians." Archivist Tom Mooney of the Cherokee Heritage Center will discuss Cherokee research on the web.

Anthropologist and Coordinator of Strategic Intelligence for the Cherokee Nation, Wyman Kirk, who is also a member of the State Sequoyah Convention Commission, will be speaking about the commission's centennial anniversary.

Genealogist Marybelle Chase, an author, editor, researcher, writer, and publisher will also participate. She is well known for the publication “The Cherokee Tracer,” a quarterly specializing in Cherokee records. She will be speaking about her many years with the quarterly and the publications she has researched.

This year’s keynote speaker is genealogist and author Jack Baker, who is president of the National Trail of Tears Association, president of the Goingsnake Historical District Association, and board member/treasurer of the Cherokee National Historical Society, Inc. Jack will be speaking on the newly translated Cherokee Moravian Missionary records, which hold fascinating discoveries about several Cherokee families.

All interested participants are urged to pre-register because class size will be limited to the first 70. For a limited time, pre-registration fees have been reduced to $30 for members of Cherokee National Historical Society, and $35 for non-members. Pre-registration is due by March 20. Prices after March 20 are $45 for members and $50 for nonmembers. Lobby registration opens at 9a.m. The conference begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m.

For more information, call the Cherokee Heritage Center at (918) 456-6007, toll free at (888) 999-6007, or visit the Web site at http://www.cherokeeheritage.org/ or e-mail Gene Norris at genealogy@cherokeeheriatge.org.

Students return on Thursday for Basketry workshop

2005-03-11T07:32:00.000-06:00

The student group from Pennsylvania and Virginia returned on Thursday for a basketry workshop, taught by Rachel and Perry. View complete photo gallery at http://www.wildsteps.com/chc/basketmaking/index.htm

Student doing basketry workshop

Student doing basketry workshop

Student doing basketry workshop

Perry VanBuskirk, Ancient Village manager, teacher, and craftsman

Deputy Chief Joe Grayson Welcomes Competitors

2005-03-11T06:41:00.000-06:00

Students from Maryetta Elementary came to the Cherokee Nation Complex to compete in the JOM-sponsored Cherokee Challenge, where the students competed with other schools on knowledge of Cherokee language, heritage, and culture. They were welcomed by Deputy Chief Joe Grayson at the complex.
Deputy Chief of the Cherokee Nation Joe Grayson and student from Maryetta Elementary

Deputy Chief of the Cherokee Nation Joe Grayson and student from Maryetta Elementary

Deputy Chief of the Cherokee Nation Joe Grayson and student from Maryetta Elementary

Deputy Chief of the Cherokee Nation Joe Grayson and student from Maryetta Elementary

Deputy Chief of the Cherokee Nation Joe Grayson and student from Maryetta Elementary

Deputy Chief of the Cherokee Nation Joe Grayson and student from Maryetta Elementary

Deputy Chief of the Cherokee Nation Joe Grayson and students from Maryetta Elementary

Deputy Chief of the Cherokee Nation Joe Grayson and students from Maryetta Elementary

Deputy Chief of the Cherokee Nation Joe Grayson and coordinator of Cherokee Challenge with son from Maryetta Elementary

Pennsylvania, Virginia students learn blowgun making from Perry VanBuskirk

2005-03-11T06:31:00.000-06:00

For complete photo gallery, check http://www.wildsteps.com/chc/blowgun_making/index.htm
College students from Pensylvania and Virginia visited the Heritage Center on Wednesday and learned blowgun making with master Cherokee craftsman Perry VanBuskirk. In this photo a student is heating the cane used to make the blowgun.

Student clearing out the inside of the cane with a metal rod.

Participant working with cane

More blowgun-making...

Heritage Center staffer Dave Norfolk assisting participant with blowgun

2005-03-11T06:27:00.000-06:00

Ashlee Kay Chaudoin, Miss Cherokee 2005, visits the Cherokee Heritage Center

Ashlee Chaudoin 2

Ashlee Chaudoin 3

Ashlee Chaudoin and Cherokee Heritage Center Director Rick Fields

Cherokee Connections--family reunion

2005-03-10T07:35:00.000-06:00

Hi, I hope all is well with you.

I'm sending you this e-mail to share my story with you and also to express my joy as being part of a wonderful family.

I was adopted when I was a baby and grew up happy but also wanting to find my biological parents. I wanted to know where I came from and what my family was like. I also felt that I didn't want to hurt my adoptive parents so I didn't start searching til I was older.

In the year 2000 I put a message on the ancestry.com web site asking for information about my parents, I knew their names from my baptismal records. The years went by and in 2004 I received an e-mail from my cousin John who put me in touch with my sisters. I was and am still so happy. We first sent e-mails ,then talked by phone and within one week I had talked with my mom and sisters and had a reunion with them.

I found out that my Father is Cherokee and my Mother Salinan. Also we had two more sisters who had also been given in adopton. About four months latter we found our sisters and had a great family reunion.Our father passed in 1980 so I didn't get the chance to know him and my brother was killed when he was young. Now I have my Mother and my five sisters.

We are truly blessed and we are researching our Cherokee ancestors and learning each day. I truly enjoy hearing what's happening and having this connection with you my Cherokee Family.

I would love to learn to speak Cherokee. My best wishes for all. Andrea

Cherokee Connections--a story of Cherokee ancestry by Gayle Thomas

2005-03-10T07:27:00.000-06:00

Sometime in the 19th century, a Cherokee woman married outside the nation. At least one child in each generation married a white person. I don’t have names, dates or places.

That introduction is all I really know about being “some part” Cherokee. My father’s parents didn’t talk about it.

But I did know that I was some-part Cherokee. And since my Dad’s family was spread out over Southwest Missouri, Northeast Oklahoma and part of Kansas, I was actually able to meet “real Indians” as I child. My great-uncle spirited me and my sister off to something that might have been a pow-wow on a dusty summer day. Rex was a neat guy. His first wife was white, but when he re-married, it was to an enrolled member of the Nation.

Back up to first grade. We lived in the very segregated Montgomery, Alabama. I was walking home from school one day when a police cruiser pulled up beside me. The officer asked me if I was in the “right” neighborhood. I replied, ‘yes.” I skipped off home. It was only decades later that I realized he was unsure of my race.

In the third grade picture, there is one obviously very dark face in the photograph of smiling white ones.

I aged. I learned about skin cancer and avoided the sun like a plague. In middle age, I now look like your average white person, with a hint of my maternal German grandfather to make my complexion ruddy every now and then.

But I am still some-part Cherokee, both proud and curious.

I married a blonde man with icy blue eyes and of Norwegian descent. When our daughter was born, he was present. Elizabeth was 7 pounds of darling girl, with black hair, black eyes and a very dark skin color. By the time three weeks had passed, my daughter was a brunette with green eyes, and looked like your average white kid. But I cherish the photo of her. It is vibrant and living proof that I am a cousin of the Cherokee Nation.

Yes, I have looked at the Dawes rolls. I don’t recognize any of the surnames. But I am not really interested in the Dawes rolls. I am not interest in poaching the federal benefits hard won by the Nation for its enrolled members. I don’t want to enroll in the Cherokee Nation in order to be recognized as a descendant. I know I’m Cherokee, and German, and Scottish and just about every other variety of Northern European. I am a 10th generation American descent of a Scot named John Donelson who came to the US well before the revolutionary war. He co-founded Nashville, which I live near today.

I am a happy middle class American living the American dream. I have a great husband and two high schoolers at home. I do my job well and I go home to my family. The Nation should be proud to acknowledge all their descendants. My Dad left a Missouri farm to graduate from West Point. He was a hot-shot fighter pilot who later flew 243 air combat missions in Viet Nam. His life was the military and I was a military brat, already in college when my dad retired.

I am now a lawyer, courtesy of the University of Missouri at Columbia. I support my second husband while he waits for a heart transplant. My second and third children have been adopted as teens out of the foster care system, no biological relation to me. But they both say, “oh, yes, we are some-part Cherokee, look at this picture of our birth mother.”

The Nation has a tremendous constituency out there, people who are curious or helpful or merely intrigued at the continued existence of the Nation. There are no official Cherokee Cousins. Except for one fact--there are millions of us some-part Cherokee out there. They were my classmates in college and my friends in Tennessee. There are astonishingly ordinary “white” Americans who cheerfully acknowledge a distant Cherokee ancestor. They include my husband, who can also throw some Comanche into the mix.

According to Norse mythology, when I get to the Hall of my Ancestors, there will be my mother and my father, their mother and their father, and each of my ancestors going back to the beginning of time. There will be Celts and Northmen of every variety. But there will also be a large contingent from the Cherokee Nation, stretching back to journey across the Bering Sea land bridge. You are part of me and I am connected to you.

Gaye Jeans Thomas, Esq.
Franklin, Tennessee

Who's the Greatest (genealogy conference holder) of the All?

2005-03-09T17:04:00.000-06:00

Archivist Tom Mooney noted an error in our recent e-newsletter--the record for genealogy conference attendees was set by him to the tune of an estimated 120 attendees. Apologies for the mistake!

The other error was the misspelling of Carol Posson's last name. Sorry, Carol!

Fortunately, typos and mistaks remain the property of the finder!

Posted by Seth

Technology Helps Preserve Cherokee History and Culture

2005-03-08T15:32:00.000-06:00

If we lose our history we lose ourselves. The history of the Cherokee Nation is not merely Cherokee history but it is American History.

The Cherokee Heritage Center, an institution based on preserving Cherokee heritage, recently received the opportunity to advance their records. Many of the historic tapes in the archives were in danger of being lost. The tapes are reel-to-reel format and locating high-quality equipment to convert them was not easy. The idea was to make tapes more accessible with the help of Brian Levy and the Caddo and Euchee tribes and their access to a variety of equipment, the center converted its records into CDs.

Brian Levy previously helped the Caddo, Creek and the Euchee tribes with familiar projects.
Levy was hired for the job as a result of a suggestion by America Meredith, a member of the Cherokee National Historical Society, Inc. who is familiar with the work of the Caddo Nation.
The center also chose the tapes with all sound, allowing future users to clean the sound as they desire. The center now has 3 sets of CDs, a master and 2 copies. Since the tapes are now digital they will not lose any quality and every copy will be the same. The center has additional tapes that will later be converted to CD. At the present time though the center is looking for a suitable off-premise site to store the master copy.

This conversion makes the archives more accessible over the internet and for research. The conversion has made it possible to play segments of the tapes on the radio. The Oklahoma Humanities Foundation has given the center a grant in cooperation with Cherokee Nation to play segments of the tapes on a Cherokee language broadcast. KTLQ, a Tahlequah station, has also agreed to broadcast the segments on its Sunday morning show.

“I’m glad to hear the radio is airing some of the recordings. That’s wonderful that they will be more widely heard that way, hopefully by some speakers of the language,” said Levi.
In the near future the center plans to put the archives on the Web site so that people can utilize them. Also the center will begin scanning historic documents and photographs.

The Cherokee Heritage Center is very satisfied with the reformation of their tape archives. The archives are saved and Cherokee heritage as well as American history is still being preserved.

Cherokee Language Classes Beginning Soon!

2005-03-02T08:41:00.000-06:00

The Cherokee Nation is sponsoring 10-week Cherokee language classes for beginners in various communities throughout the Cherokee Nation.

The classes are for anyone interested in learning to read, write and speak the Cherokee language. There is no fee to take the class, and the Cherokee Nation provides all books and materials free of charge.

Classes will be held in the following communities at the following locations:
TahlequahAdult Education Building124 E Choctaw6:30 pm - 8:30 pmMondaysMarch 7 through May 9, 2005Instructor: Wynema Bush

Old Clouds CreekOld Clouds Creek Church6:30 pm – 8:30 p.m.TuesdaysMarch 8 through May 10, 2005Instructor: Anna Huckaby-Sixkiller

Dry CreekCommunity Building6:30 pm - 8:30 pm, MondaysMarch 7 through May 9, 2005Instructor: Jean Bolin

Locust GroveLocust Grove Middle School700 N Highway 826:30 pm – 8:30 pmThursdaysMarch 10 through May 12, 2005Instructor: Sandra Turner

ProctorCommunity BuildingHighway 62, Old School Bldg6:30 pm - 8:30 pm, MondaysMarch 7 through May 9, 2005Instructor: George Stopp

JayJay Senior Housing1301 W. Washburn Street6:30 pm - 8:30 pm, MondaysMarch 7 through May 9, 2005Instructor: Rufus King

GroveGrove Middle School517 W 10th Street6:30 pm - 8:30 pm, TuesdaysMarch 8 through May 10, 2005Instructor: John Sixkiller

ClaremoreHACN Senior Citizen Complex202 Stuart Roosa6:30 pm - 8:30 pm, MondaysMarch 7 through May 9, 2005Instructor: Liz Guthrie

DeweyWashington County Senior Citizen Center6:30 pm - 8:30 pm, MondaysMarch 7 through May 9, 2005Instructor: Bob Glass

TulsaBowen Baptist Church1515 E Independence6:30 pm - 8:30 pm, TuesdaysMarch 8 through May 10, 2005Instructor: Prentice Robinson

GoreLEAP Building305 South Main6:00 pm – 8:00 pmMondaysFebruary 28 through May 2, 2005Instructor: Rosa Carter

Posted by Seth

The Faces Behind the Paper Cuts

2005-03-01T16:05:00.000-06:00

The 34th Annual Trail of Tears Art Show is fast approaching. Soon, more than 2,000 artist registration packets will be distributed thanks to the hard work and dedication of three of our volunteers. Through papercuts, sticky fingers and glue-covered tongues, Wilma Robers, Nelli Hunt and Mary Jane Saeger spent many hours assemblying the packets. Thank you to our wonderful volunteers, we couldn't do it without you!

A big THANK YOU!

2005-03-01T12:06:00.000-06:00

Thanks to all who helped make the honorary dinner possible!

Table Sponsors
Jack Baker
Betty Starr Barker
Charles “Chief” Boyd
Cherokee County Federal Women’s Democratic Club
Cherokee County Democratic Party
Cherokee Nation Enterprises
Cherokee Nation Industries
Hillcrest Medical Center
Noksi Press
Northeastern State University
Oklahoma Lumberman’s Association
Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology
Rogers State University

Individual and Couple Sponsors
John Adair, Cherokee Natural Gas, LLC
Gov. Bill Anoatubby, The Chickasaw Nation
Carol Armstrong
Emily Ann Ball
Johnny Ballard
Marion & Tracy Bayles
Debbie Beaver, Williams Organization
Mr. & Mrs. A.J. Bigby, Discovery Land
Karel Brewster
Roger & Shawna Cain
Steve Clay
Terry Cline, Oklahoma Department of Mental Health
Welch Cole
Sadie Cole
Julie Cole
Lloyd E. Cole Jr., Oklahoma Council on Judicial Complaints
Melissa Cole
Bob & Jan Cooper, Farrell-Cooper Mining Co.
Myra Crawford
William Dane
Nancy Dehart
Nancy Dyson
Gloria Eubanks
Bryce Felts
Warren & Holly Fields, Arvest Bank
Donna Finicle
Renee & John Fite, Westville/Stilwell Newspapers
Effie Foster Ballard, Oklahoma Production Center
Dave and Donna Garlick
Judy Goad, Second District Democratic Party
Rusty Goodman
Sadie Gordon
Linda Holland
W.T. Jeffers, Discovery Land
Glen &Melinda Johnson, Southeastern Oklahoma State University
Kathryn Jones, Oklahoma Higher Education Alumni Council
L. Phil Keeter
John Kennedy
John and Colleen Ketcher
Lundy Kiger, AES Shady Point
John & Raynette Kyle, Oklahoma Railroad Association
W.H. “Bill” Jr. & Linda Langley
Marguerite Laugel
Senator Richard and Frances Lerblance
Jane Mershon
Debbie Morgan
Nason & Kathryn Morton, D/B/A Morton Law Office
Neil & Patsy Lynn Morton, Morton County Education Consulting
Debbie Murray
Lewis & Wanda Nichols
Anita Norman
Rowena & Jerry L. Ogden
Joyce Drew Parsons, Oklahoma Retired Educators
Rhonda Patterson
Wayne Pettigrew, Group & Pension Planners, Inc.
Ron Rhoads
Billie Richardson
Susan Ruckman, Tulsa World
Miracle Smith
Luther Smith
Betty J. Smith
Amy Sparks
Barbara Staggs
J.T. & Mary Jo Stites
Ross & Margaret Swimmer
Charles Swinton, BancFirst
John & Mary Thomason
Bob & Opal Tigg
M.L. & Nancy Van Poucke
Jimmie Whitekiller
Jim & Marcia Wilson
Senator Jim & Connie Wilson
Austin & Kathy Young

Honoring Dinner a Huge Success

2005-02-28T21:32:00.000-06:00

The dinner honoring Speaker of the House Larry Adair and Senator Herb Rozell held at the Cherokee Casino in Catoosa was a huge success, thanks to the efforts and financial support of many friends, Heritage Center board members and staff, support from the Cherokee Nation, and assistance from Cherokee Nation Enterprises. Click on the links below for photo galleries of the event. A detailed list of supporters and those who helped make this fantastic event happen will be posted soon!

Auction items
Band
Cherokee Flutes
Guests
Speakers

Cherokee art donated for silent auction

Jazz guitarist setting the tempo for a great evening!

Cherokee flute players putting on a wonderful show

Guest enjoying the fun

Principal Chief Chad Smith giving the closing speech

Herb Rozell getting roasted by president of NSU

Herb Rozell getting roasted some more...

Larry Adair getting roasted by Keith Crittenden

Rick Fields introducing the Heritage Center

Lt. Governor Fallin bidding up the silent auction items

Larry Adair thanking the crowd

Jay Harrah entertaining everyone

Herb Rozell thanking the guests

Tribal Council Member Cara Cowan visits Cherokee Heritage Center

2005-02-24T11:15:00.000-06:00

Tribal Council Member Cara Cowan visited the Cherokee Heritage Center today and visited with executive director Rick Fields. Thanks for dropping by, Cara, and for all the support and encouragement from the Cherokee Nation!

Tribal Council Member Cara Cowan and Cherokee Heritage Center executive director Rick Fields pose in front of the seal of the Cherokee Nation

Photo 2

End

Daily Oklahoman Features Cherokee Heritage Center

2005-02-24T10:57:00.000-06:00

The Daily Oklahoman, Oklahoma's largest newspaper, ran a full page, full color story on the back of the sports section about the Cherokee Heritage Center's newest exhibit, "Cherokee Athletes."

Curator Mickel Yantz, in addition to being pleased at this tremendous level of coverage, had this to say: "It's gratifying, to say the least, but this couldn't have happened without support from the Cherokee Nation, volunters who donated artifacts and personal stories, and our own staff."

The Cherokee Heritage Center also thanks: Sequoyah High School, Cherokee Phoenix, Northeastern State University, Tennessee Titans, Conners University, Will Rogers Museum, Thunderbird Bowling Alley, Dan Agent, Calico Family, Dr. Brad Cobb, Hammer Family, Chris Houston, Brand Johnson, Killer Family, Jim Pate, Bryan Pollard, Virginia Russell, Cecil Sharp, Becky Barrows Smythe, Eunice Soap, Joe Thornton, Wilson Vann, Shirley and Shoat Webster, Parker and Rider Weavel, and Margaret Yattanzo.

Mickel Yantz, curator, with Daily Oklahoman news story

Mickel again...

Closeup of news story

Story headline

Photos from Cherokee Athletes Exhibit

2005-02-24T10:54:00.000-06:00

Poster for World Archery, Oslo, Norway, 1961

Tennessee Titans uniform, courtesy NFL and Heritage Center board member Bud Adams

Exhibit trophy

Cherokee baseball team, early 20th Century

Cherokee football players, early 20th Century

Girls' softball team uniform

Rogers County Cherokee Association info

2005-02-22T08:06:00.000-06:00

Claremore, OK-Rogers County Cherokee Association (RCCA) held its monthly meeting February 8th at the Rogers County Fair Board building. The organization elected officers for 2005 as follows: Talisha Nichols, President; Tina Foutz, Vice President; Sandee McClure, Secretary; and Greg Sneed, Treasurer.

The membership also heard a presentation from Mr. Rick Gassaway; Cherokee Nation Community Development regarding the Compassion Capital Grant Training and how the program can positively impact RCCA. The organization recently purchased acreage near Tiawah that will be home to a community facility to serve the Rogers County Cherokee Association and its cultural and heritage events. RCCA also received 501c3 status.

Cara Cowan, Cherokee Nation Tribal Representative for Rogers County, congratulated Talisha Nichols and the membership for their outstanding service and work toward achieving the goals to support the Cherokee heritage and cultural awareness.

Brian Slover, Membership Chairman for RCCA, has begun a membership drive for the organization. If you are interested in learning more about membership join us for our next meeting Tuesday, March 8th, at 7 PM. We will be meeting at the Claremore Sr. Citizens Center at 116 N. Missouri. For more information please contact Pamela Bickford at 343-3577 or Bickford7@aol.com.

Basketweaving Class

2005-02-22T08:00:00.000-06:00

Rogers County Cherokee Association is pleased to announce that Marie Deffenbaugh will demonstrate traditional Cherokee basket weaving at the Rogers County Cherokee Association monthly meeting.

Please join us, Tuesday March 8th at the Claremore Senior Citizen Center located at 116 North Missouri in Claremore. The meeting will begin at 7 PM. You are encouraged to attend and learn about the rich heritage of our Cherokee culture. Membership information will be available at the meeting. As always, refreshments and fellowship will be available following the meeting.

Contact Pamela Bickford for more information at 343-3577 or write Bickford7@aol.com

Belated photos of staff retreat

2005-02-21T15:30:00.000-06:00

Heritage Center staff assembled at Sequoyah State Park

Star volunteer Roy Hamilton...

Becky Adair...

IT guru Will Burgess...

Ami Maddocks, realizing that all 2,500 invitations have got to be addressed and stamped in the next hour...

Susan Cro...

Tonia Weavel, skeptical of an anonymous e-mail telling her that she's won the Powerball Lottery...

Rick Fields...

Mickel Yantz...

Mel Phillips, anticipating lunch...

Gene Norris, realizing that he's got 400 e-mails back at the office inquiring about the dreaded Cherokee princess great-great grandmother...

Robert Lewis, deep in thought...

Perry VanBuskirk...

Rachel Dew...

Tom Mooney, explaining that yes, you're wrong, and yes, he's right...again...

Rex Smith...

Mel and Rhonda...

Rhonda Clemons...

Fire extinguisher lecturer explaining that it's unwise to use a Class Q extinguisher on a Class A birthday cake...

Blood-borne pathogens speaker explaining that blood can be icky...

Kathryn Roastingear...

Dave Norfolk, asking if we can add hula dances to the standard group tour package...

Mickel Yantz, thinking "No, we can't."...

Fire extinguisher used to treat blood-borne pathogens...

Sam Nofire...

Robert Channel...

Orville Neugin...

Andrea Butler...

Will Lowe, counting the cookies to break time...

Entire gang, freezing...

Robert, Becky, and Robert, strapped into automatic chairs...

Chrissie Moore, water-skiing on the carpet...

Everyone smiling...END

Cherokee National Museum Exhibit Schedule 2005

2005-02-21T08:31:00.000-06:00

Stone sculpture by Cherokee artist Harry Oosahwee

February 1-April 25: Cherokee Athletes--from Stickball to the Olympics April 30-May 29: 34th Annual Trail of Tears Art Show June 6-October 2: State of Sequoyah Convention Centennial October 8-November 14: 10th Annual Cherokee Homecoming Art Show November 14-December 31: Cherokee Heritage Center Staff Art Show Posted by Seth

Cherokee Humanities Course

2005-02-21T08:17:00.000-06:00

The Cherokee Heritage Center offers a humanities class that explores the origins, history, and modern status of the Cherokee people. The course is free, and classes meet once a week for three hours in the evening at the Osiyo classroom at the Cherokee Nation.

There are Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. Summer semester runs from April to June. First-time studens must enroll in the fall course. Contact Tonia or Becky in our education department, 918-456-6007, extension 33, for more information. Posted by Seth

Cherokee Heritage Center Staff

2005-02-19T11:05:00.000-06:00

It takes a diverse and wonderful group of folks to keep the Cherokee Heritage Center going, and here is a brief rogues' gallery of staffers I was lucky enough to photograph at a recent event. Other photos will be posted as I can trick people into sitting still for a few moments in front of the camera's blinking eye.

Tonia Weavel, Director of Education, superb organizer and teacher, positive and enthusiastic force for the Center

Ami Maddocks, PR and Special Events Coordinator, woman who makes things happen that are astonishing in their complexity and level of detail

Will Burgess, IT genius and general man-who-keeps-the-whole-place-from-falling-apart

Cora Lathrop, warm-hearted woman who makes sure that you don't spend more than you bring in, and general enforcer of the Heritage Center Laws!

Zach Ford, man of infinite patience and good cheer who keeps the grounds looking spiffy and welcoming

Tom Mooney, archivist and general authority on everything that happened back before bicycles had wheels

Chrissie Moore, accountant and totally professional manager of the books

Will Lowe, ex-Marine, softball star, and master of the membership rolls here at the Center

Sam No-Fire, Cherokee elder and keeper of the cultural flame

Kathryn Roastingear, museum store coordinator, always smiling, and keeps everything upstairs in perfect order

Rachel Dew, interpretive guide for the ancient village, basketmaker, and lovely lady!

Susan Cro, administrative specialist, cheery staffer, and person who gets things done when they need doing

Gene Norris, genealogist, and person who can definitively tell you that your great-grandmother was definitely NOT a Cherokee princess (because there weren't any!)

Mickel Yantz, museum curator who makes the impossible possible, lover of great Seattle coffee, and first-rate guy

Perry VanBuskirk, manager of the ancient village, expert on Cherokee culture, craftsman who specializes in blowguns, stickball sets, and numerous other things of beauty

Mel Phillips, grantwriter, person of infinite good humor, snappy dresser, and first-rate dad

Kathy VanBuskirk, receptionist, master basketmaker, wonderful cook and baker, and keeper of Cherokee culture and language

Becky Adair, education coordinator, woman of infinite grace, good cheer, exceptional talent, and she-who-makes-sure-education-events-are-done-according-to-plan. Posted by Seth, and no, it's no coincidence that my photo is nowhere to be found!

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2005-02-19T10:00:00.000-06:00

The Cherokee Heritage Center sent its first e-newsletter on Thursday, and so far we've gotten high marks. Take a moment to visit our home page or the link on the left-hand side of this blog to sign up for the newsletter. We'll keep you apprised on a monthly basis of our multitudinous happenings! Posted by Seth