Native American Heritage Month

In celebration of Native American Heritage Month 2023, the Funk Heritage Center has planned two days of special events: Friday, November 3rd, and Saturday, November 4th.

We have a special guest speaker from the Cherokee Nation on November 3rd. The cost of admission on November 3rd is the regular admission price.

Then, on November 4th, we are offering free admission! We have a variety of activities going on that day. From talks to demonstrations to games, there's something for everyone! The museum itself will be open until 4:00 p.m., while the special activities will be held at the times shown below with each activity.

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SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER FROM THE CHEROKEE NATION — 11/03/23

2:00: Troy Wayne poteete

Held in the Estelle Bennett Hughes Theater

Troy Wayne Poteete is a former Cherokee Nation Supreme Court Justice and current national executive director for the Trail of Tears Association.

In his presentation, titled Triumph over Tragedy: The Cherokee Nation Again Thrives, Poteete will examine how Cherokee citizens have drawn inspiration from their ancestors who overcame their deportation on the infamous forced removal, now known as the Trail of Tears. Further, Poteete will demonstrate how Cherokees have confronted setbacks since then to preserve their government, history, culture, and language., with an emphasis on the modern-day Cherokee Nation, a distinct cultural and political entity once again thriving in Northeastern Oklahoma.

Special events — all free on 11/04/23

talks/Lectures

Held in the Estelle Bennett Hughes Theater

11:00-12:00: John & Ann Jones

In May 2023, Funk Heritage Center members Ann and John Jones spent 16 days following the Trail of Tears to Oklahoma. They traveled from Eastern Tennessee along the Northern Route of the trail to Tahlequah, Oklahoma, and returned via the Bell Route. Mr. and Mrs. Jones will present the experiences they had on the road and at stops along the way.

1:00-2:00: Tony Harris

Tony Harris, who is of Cherokee ancestry, will share his extensive knowledge of native plants and their traditional uses.

appalachian settlement demonstrations

To reach the Settlement, follow the path down the hill beginning outside at the back left of the museum. You can also ask at the front desk for directions and a map.

10:00-12:00: blacksmithing

Mark, former history teacher and experienced blacksmith, will demonstrate and discuss the ins and outs of this craft. Watching the demonstration is a fascinating experience!

10:00-2:00: log cabin

Visit an 1840s log cabin and learn how people lived during this time. Our very own cabin ladies, Pat, Peggy, and Christy, will talk about the times, the tools, and more.

Courtyard demonstrations

To get to the courtyard, exit from the hallway between the Grand Lobby and the restrooms.

10:00-2:00 Rock carving

See examples of carvings made from soapstone and similar stones, and watch as Sheryl, who learned carving from a Native American man, demonstrates the carving techniques.

12:00-2:00 atlatl throwing

Dave, who also shows kids on school field trips how woodworking is done, will demonstrate the art of atlatl throwing. An atlatl is a tool that uses leverage to achieve greater velocity and thrust in dart and javelin-throwing. Take the opportunity to watch and learn the technique of throwing this fascinating tool!