Aliiah Myers mixes up the clay used to coat the outside of the traditional shelter.
Winter Tradition Continues at Choctaw Cultural Center
Published November 21, 2022
DURANT, Okla. – The Choctaw Cultural Center offered the public a messy, but educational opportunity recently for a hands-on experience to “mud” a traditional Choctaw winter home. Early-day Choctaws gathered mud from nearby rivers and creeks, water, and hay or grass to make a sticky clay. That material would bind between logs of the structure. This method would serve as insulation and a protective shell against the natural elements. More than 20 participants joined in the session held earlier this month. “The guests enjoyed the experience and community efforts like our ancestors,” said Brenner Billy, program coordinator at the center. Activities for all ages are scheduled through the holiday season at the Choctaw Cultural Center and can be found on the Events page.
Photo
From left to right Arianna Myers, Colt, James and Cheyhoma Dugger all work together to throw and spread clay on the outside of a traditional Choctaw shelter.
About The Choctaw Nation
The Choctaw Nation is the third-largest Indian Nation in the United States with more than 225,000 tribal members and 12,000-plus associates. This ancient people has an oral tradition dating back over 13,000 years. The first tribe over the Trail of Tears, its historic reservation boundaries are in the southeast corner of Oklahoma, covering 10,923 square miles. The Choctaw Nation’s vision, “Living out the Chahta Spirit of faith, family and culture,” is evident as it continues to focus on providing opportunities for growth and prosperity.
Inquiries
Contact Kristina Humenesky for any media relations needs at [email protected].
About The Choctaw Cultural Center
The Choctaw Cultural Center is dedicated to exploring, preserving, and showcasing the culture and history of the Choctaw people. The exhibits are immersive and told from the Choctaw perspective – honoring the physical and spiritual journey of the Choctaw people, the “Chahta Nvwat Aya”. Located in Durant, Oklahoma, the Choctaw Cultural Center includes over 100,000 square feet of rich, living exhibitions, a vast Living Village, classrooms, a theater, café and retail that combined, bring the Chahta spirit of faith, family and culture to life! For more information, visit choctawculturalcenter.com.