Exhibition Opening – Unsung Heroes of the Civil War: Freedmen of Indian Territory
July 27
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