The Chickasaw Cultural Center

Oklahoma, a Native American word meaning "Red Man" and home to 32 Native American Tribes, 25 of which were forced to come through the dreaded Trail of Tears. One of these tribes was known as the Chikashsha (Chee-kaw-shaw) tribe which was later translated to "Chickasaw (chick-uh-saw)."  As stated in the Chickasaw tongue, "Chuckma (chook-ma)", which means "Hello" or "Welcome" to the Chickasaw Cultural Center.  Here you will learn about the life, growth, and advancement of the Chickasaw Tribe.  At the Chickasaw Cultural Center, you will learn the story about the origin of the world as told by the Chickasaw Story Tellers.  Additionally, learn about the various treaties, made and broken, between the Chickasaw Nation and the United States Government.  For instance, the Treaty of Hopewell stated that if any citizen of the United States attempted to settle land owned by the Chickasaw Nation, that person would relinquish protection from the U.S. Government and the Chickasaw Tribe had full legal rights to do with that person anything they wished.  Unfortunately, such support for the Chickasaw Tribe, as well as the other tribes, didn't last long.

Be sure to walk through the Spirit Forest to learn about the origin of many animals, as told by the Chickasaw Story Tellers.  Once you travel through the Spirit Forest, journey with the tribe through the dreaded Trail of Tears.  Hear actual stories as passed down from survivors of the actual tragedy.  At the end of any trail there is hope and this tunnel demonstrates that very well and exhibits show how the tribe has flourished over the years, and later became part of the Five Civilized Tribes producing valuable members.  For instance, the Indian code talkers, where the languages of the Chickasaw and other Native American Tribes used their languages and developed a coded language in which to pass military message among the Pacific forces of World War II.  The code was never broken and the service they provided the war effort contributed greatly to the defeat of the Japanese forces.  Additionally, in today's times, citizens of the Chickasaw nation have contributed significantly to the sciences and to our communities.  Consider Astronaut John B. Herrington, the first Native American in space, and Representative Lisa Billy, who faithfully represents the citizens of Oklahoma's 42nd Legislative District.  The Chickasaw Nation has certainly made significant contributions to the American Culture.  Finally, there are several locations throughout the Museum  where you can learn the Chickasaw word for various objects and phrases.  At these locations, you will also have the opportunity to repeat the Chickasaw word.

At 11:00 every day, Chickasaw Dancers demonstrates a dance known as the Friendship Dance, in which they welcome visitors to the Chickasaw Cultural Center.  Afterwards, members of the audience are invited to join with the dancers as they participate in the Snake Dance.

For lunch, visit the Aaimpa' Cafe. Sit down in a comfortable and clean atmosphere and enjoy some authentic Chickasaw food.  Here you can eat a very tasty Indian Territorial Burger and fries.  Or try their Indian Taco's which are very tasty, indeed.  However, if you are really adventurous, try the Native American meal known as Pashofa (paw-show-fa) and finish up with grape dumplings as a dessert.  Before you leave, visit the gift shop. As with every gift shop, they offer shirts, mugs and key chains.    However, they also sell several different types of jams and relishes as well as buffalo jerky.

If you need to do some research for a school project, be sure to visit the Research Center for various sources on Chickasaw history. You may also be able to trace your ancestral lineage to see if you have any Chickasaw blood running through your veins.  Last, but not certainly not least, visit the Honor Garden to see the names of famous Chickasaw who have made significant contributions in bringing recognition and accolades to the Chickasaw Nation.  The Chickasaw Cultural Center is a place to learn about the history of a proud people who have overcome various obstacles throughout history and, from the ashes of the past, have risen into a bright future.

In the Chickasaw language, there is no word for Good-bye.  Instead, they say "Cho Pisa Lacho" which means "See You Later".

Entertainment: 3
Educational: 5
Gift Shop: 3
Cafe: 5
Price: 4
Overall: 4

Additional Information

Address
867 Cooper Memorial Dr. Sulpher, OK 73086

Hours of Operation
Monday: Closed
Tues - Fri: 10:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Saturday: 10:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Sunday: 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Prices
Adults: $6
Students, Military, Seniors: $5
Kids under 12: $3
Kids under 3: Free
Chickasaw Citizen: Free

For More Information: visit www.chickasawculturalcenter.com