The Tvshkahomma Capitol Museum is housed within the historic Choctaw Capitol Building. Originally constructed in 1884, Tvshkahomma, translated as “red warrior” in the Choctaw language, is the name given to the structure and the surrounding Capitol grounds. The interior houses a gift shop as well as rooms for exhibits and events. The grounds surrounding the Museum feature sculptures, outdoor exhibits, and walking paths with educational displays that highlight various cultural elements of Choctaw history, as well as a Veterans’ Memorial. Discover more about the museum and its offerings below.
History
Originally designed to house the Choctaw Senate, House of Representatives, Supreme Court, and other national offices, the Capitol evolved throughout the twentieth century as Federal Indian policy shifted.
By the mid-1920s, it had moved into private ownership, but Choctaw leadership repurchased it less than a decade later for use as a community center. A major renovation in the 1930s added offices for Indian Arts and Crafts, a small museum, and living quarters for the Principal Chief.
A Gathering Place
After the passing of Principal Chief William Durant in the post-war era, the Capitol structure and grounds remained a central gathering place for Choctaws and surrounding communities during its annual Labor Day Festival.
In the late 1960s, the Choctaw Historical Society developed a plan to convert the space into a museum. That vision was realized over the following decade by Choctaw leadership, and the museum was formally dedicated on Sept. 1, 1975.
Today, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma continues to steward and preserve the Tvshkahomma Capitol Museum.
Experience Tvshkahomma
- The Capitol interior features educational exhibits highlighting multiple eras of Choctaw Nation history.
- The building also houses a Gift Shop featuring handcrafted items by Choctaw artisans, along with books, apparel, jewelry, and other keepsakes. It is open during regular museum hours and during select special events.
- The Capitol grounds offer plenty to explore from scenic walking areas and historic monuments to open gathering spaces used for community events.
- Tours of the Capitol and Grounds may be scheduled.
Visitor Information
Complimentary Admission
Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tvshkahomma Capitol Museum
Council House Rd
Tuskahoma, Ok 74574
For further information, call 855-569-4465
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Lower-Level
Tvshkahomma Red Warrior
This exhibit highlights the present Choctaw Capitol in contrast with older Capitols formed between 1834 and 1883. It features original artifacts from the building's pre-statehood days.
Sovereignty in the Twentieth Century
This space highlights several Choctaw Nation Executive figures from the Twentieth Century and their actions to preserve the Capitol Building. It features personal items from Chiefs D. C. McCurtain, Victor Locke Jr., William Durant, and Harry Belvin.
Tvshkahomma Capitol Museum Gift Shop
Offers handcrafted selections from local Choctaw artisans as well as a variety of books, apparel, jewelry, and other sundries. It is open during regular Museum hours and some special events.
Upper Level
Temporary Exhibit
Tvshkahomma Becoming a Museum - Open Through May 2026
This year's temporary exhibit focuses on the history of the Tvshkahomma Capitol Building and its incredible journey through fourteen decades. Although the building itself is 141 years old, it has only served as a museum for fifty years. Uniquely curated artifacts, photos, and documents illustrate three different generations of Choctaw plans for the Capitol Building and how it became a museum. Significant figures are also selected to show many of the historic Choctaws who had direct roles in the construction and later preservation of the structure.
Exhibit Spaces
The Mississippi Room
The second section of the Mississippi Room highlights the early diplomatic history, notable leaders, and events that led to the beginning of forced removal in the 1830s.
The Oklahoma Room
The Oklahoma Room features large-scale dioramas depicting Choctaw life in the new territory.
The Code Talkers Theater
This semi-enclosed theater features a documentary and artifacts related to the Choctaw Code Talkers, including medals, personal effects, and interviews with their descendants.
Video Tour
Plan Your Visit
The Tvshkahomma Capitol Museum hosts events throughout the year, offering personal and community-driven interactions. Many events hosted by other organizations also take place on the Capitol Grounds.