OKLAHOMA INDIAN TERRITORY MUSEUM OF BLACK CREEK FREEDMEN HISTORY
Welcome to the Official Website of the
Oklahoma Indian Territory Museum of Black Creek Freedmen History
OUR
MISSION
The Museum’s mission is to Acquire, Educate, Document, Protect, Preserve, and Exhibit the unique history and culture of the Black Creeks (Freedmen) of the Indian Territory. Creek Freedmen were forcefully removed to Indian Territory (now known as Oklahoma) on the trail of tears in the 1830s from their eastern homelands in Alabama and Georgia
OUR PURPOSE
The Oklahoma Indian Territory Museum of Black Creek Freedmen History aims to educate and guide visitors on a journey back in time to the days of Indian Territory. A pivotal time in history before the creation of the State of Oklahoma. A time in history when people of African descent were knownas Freedmen, Natives Negros, Black Indians, Black Creeks, and African Creeks in Indian Territory.
Oklahoma Indian Territory Museum of Black Creek Freedmen History, Inc,
P.O. Box 6366
Moore, OK, 73153
(405) 458-0823
June 30, 2024
For Immediate Release:
The Muscogee Creek Indian Freedmen Band and the Oklahoma Indian Territory Museum of Black Creek Freedmen History are excited to present "Unsung Heroes of the Civil War: Freedmen of Indian Territory."
Explore the remarkable story of the African Creek (Freedmen) and other courageous individuals who fought alongside the Muscogee Creek people during the Civil War. Witness their selfless sacrifice and remarkable courage as they fled Indian Territory and joined forces with the Upper Creek Indians under the leadership of Muscogee Creek Chief Opothleyahola.
Experience their inspiring journey through three intense battles against the Confederates as they made their way to Kansas, a journey that became known as The Trail of Blood on Ice. These pivotal battles occurred in Indian Territory during the American Civil War, from November 19, 1861, to December 26, 1861.
During the Civil War, brave men of African descent joined the 1st Indian Home Guard Kansas and the 1st and 2nd Kansas Colored Infantry, which later became the 79th and 83rd Colored Troops. The exhibit will showcase a fascinating collection of replica weapons, historical display boards providing insights into the historical context and the soldiers' stories, a realistic depiction of a Union soldier, replicas of utensils, various artifacts from the Civil War era, and fantastic artwork completed to help enhance the story.
Additionally, the exhibit will feature a replica of the 1st Kansas Colored Infantry battle flag, honoring the courage and sacrifice of these extraordinary soldiers. They fought battles in Indian Territory, Missouri, Arkansas, and beyond.
Prepare to be captivated by our impressive lineup of guest presenters. Mr. Wallace C. Moore will share the powerful perspective of an enslaved person of African descent. We are honored to have Attorney Calvin Osborne, a Civil War reenactor from Washington D.C. and a descendant of Creek Freedmen, who will provide deep insights into the history of the Freedmen of Indian Territory and share stories of their service in these regiments.
Lastly, Ms. Be'eri Ahil will transport us back in time as she brings to life the experiences of Ms. Lucinda Davis, an eyewitness to the battle of Honey Spring, dressed in period-appropriate attire.
This event is open to anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the history and the courageous but often overlooked heroes of the Civil War: Freedmen of Indian Territory.
This significant event has been made possible by a generous grant from the Oklahoma Heritage Preservation Grants, provided by the Oklahoma Historical Society.
Save this information:
Date: July 27, 2024
Time: 3:00 pm
Location: 8625 S. Walker Ave, Oklahoma City, 73139
Admission: Free
Presented by the Muscogee Creek Indian Freedmen Band and the Oklahoma Indian Territory Museum of Black Creek Freedmen History.
contactus@1866creekfreedmen.com
405-458-0823
HAVE SOME QUESTIONS?
Feel free to Contact Us and we are happy to help!
Are you passionate about preserving history and culture? Join the Creek Freedmen Cemetery Preservation Committee and help us protect our most sacred land. We've already completed and submitted Thomas Smith and Old Union Agency nominations for $8,000. Your donation towards the upkeep of these cemeteries would be greatly appreciated. It costs $400 per month to mow the TS cemetery. Your tax-deductible donation can make a real difference.
The cemeteries are within the boundaries of the Muscogee Creek Reservation, and the Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO) for the Muscogee Creek Nation has to review, comment on, and ultimately approve the nominations. According to the Nation's constitution, these cemeteries must be protected and recognized by the National Park Service as Traditional Cultural Properties (TCPs). The THPO's comments and approval are due in July. Join us in preserving and honoring our heritage!