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Chickasaw Nation

History and recreation thrive on tribal lands in the Sooner State

Before the Sooners answered the call of an open land rush, the people of the Chickasaw Nation established a home in south central Oklahoma. The 1838 Trail of Tears brought them from east of the Mississippi River, and in quick order. Tribal leaders established their capital at Tishomingo and formed a government consisting of three branches and elected officials.

That system endures to this day, and the Chickasaw Nation, located about 100 miles south of the capital of Oklahoma City, welcomes visitors with open arms. With a population of roughly 50,000 tribal members, the nation is headquartered in Ada, Oklahoma, and thrives in several surrounding cities, each offering a unique expression of Chickasaw culture.

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Chickasaw Nation

Seat of Power

The Chickasaw Council House Museum in Tishomingo, the tribe’s first capital, tells the story of the tribe through artifacts, archives and a large collection of native art. Nearby sits the Chickasaw National Capitol Building, which served as the seat of tribal government from 1898 to 1907 and now houses exhibits detailing the story of the tribe.

In Sulphur, the Chickasaw Cultural Center boasts a bustling exhibit center, two beautifully ornate fine art galleries, a traditional village to showcase the historic lives of the original Chickasaw people and many more compelling exhibits. Don’t miss the interactive stomp dance, along with live stomp dances performed by tribe members.

Supporters of modern art can feast their eyes on creations by Chickasaw artists and get in on the act. ARTesian Gallery & Studios, in downtown Sulphur, features an art gallery where artists can display their work for sale.

For a glimpse into the authentic past of the native citizens, make sure to visit the Kullihoma Grounds, a tribal reserve in Allen that was once used as a school and stomping grounds. The property’s 1,500-acres includes eye-opening replicas of traditional dwellings. The grounds continue to serve as a Chickasaw gathering place.

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Chickasaw Nation

Win at WinStar

One of the highlights of Chickasaw Nation, the immense WinStar Casino and Resort prides itself in being the “largest casino in the entire world.” The casino is home to 500,000 square feet of gaming, including 7,400 electronic games, 96 game tables, a bingo hall, fully functioning poker hall and off-track betting areas.

Dedicated golfers owe it to themselves to check out the spectacular WinStar Golf Course. Golfers can tackle 27 holes on 280 beautiful acres of vast green in a resort-style setting. Designed by D.A. Weibring, the course is challenging enough for both novice and expert golfers. WinStar Golf Course also hosts tournaments, outings and events in the 10,000 square foot rustic clubhouse.

For More Information

Chickasaw Nation

580-436-2603

www.chickasaw.net

 

Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department

800-652-6552

www.travelok.com