From Saturday, November 15, through Saturday, November 29, the Fort Gibson Historic Site, with a grant from the Oklahoma Humanities, will continue to display the Dawes Commission in Indian Territory: Cherokee Freedmen exhibit.

In 1893, portions of Fort Gibson Military Post saw life again as hundreds of Black Americans formerly enslaved to some of the citizens of the Indian Territory Nations gathered to enroll for the Dawes Commission. Knowing they might be in the area for a while, many brought tents, goods for sale, and the essentials of their lives that they could carry with them to create a small community on the grounds of Fort Gibson Post. While here, they caught up with old friends, some of whom they likely had not seen since the Civil War ripped through Indian Territory, scattering residents across the United States and its territories. As enrollment included land allotments, many looked toward a future as Freedmen of the Indian Territory.

This exhibit features photographs taken during the enrollment of the Cherokee Freedmen at Fort Gibson post as well as an exhibit display of some of the materials and equipment used by Captain McKennon in the course of his commission duties. Included in the exhibit will be space for Freedmen descendants to write down information they may have on the many unidentified people featured in the photographs as well as any stories they wish to share. Fort Gibson Historic Site and Oklahoma Historical Society have worked to depict a moment in time that highlights the creativity, community, and moments of joy shared by Cherokee Freedmen on the eve of enrollment.

Visitors are encouraged to record memories, information, or thoughts on the exhibit in the visitor book provided within the gallery space. We are particularly interested in stories, articles, and photographs visitors may have of the Freedman portion of the Dawes Commission. If you would like to share additional information, please email us at [email protected].

This exhibit is open from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday in November. The exhibit is included with the price of admission to the site. Check in at Fort Gibson Historic Site Visitor Center for location and a brochure. Our Visitor Center is in the 1870s Hospital at 803 N Garrison Ave, Fort Gibson, OK 74434.

The site will not be open on Tuesday, November 11, or on Thursday, November 27, and Friday, November 28.

For questions about this exhibit, stay tuned to this page or contact us at [email protected]. Fort Gibson Historic Site is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.