Cherokee Nation hosts Sequoyah Day on May 19

Enjoy a day of traditional Cherokee art, music and more, honoring legendary statesman and inventor of the Cherokee syllabary, Sequoyah. The event will be held in conjunction with Cherokee Nation's Traditional Native Games. 

Sequoyah Day begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 19, at Sequoyah’s Cabin Museum in Sallisaw.

“We are proud to bring to life an event like Sequoyah Day. It’s a unique daylong celebration of Cherokee history and culture at the home of the man who pioneered the Cherokee syllabary,” said Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker. “Now that Cherokee Nation owns and operates the Sequoyah Cabin Park, we can organize these types of family-driven events that are both educational and fun for all.” 

The family-friendly event runs until 4 p.m. and features live performances, activities for children and cultural demonstrations such as pottery, flint-knapping, bow-making, stone carving, graphics and more. 

The event includes multiple performances from the Cherokee National Youth Choir and a special language presentation at 1:30 p.m.

The cabin was constructed by Sequoyah in 1829 and welcomes more than 12,000 visitors each year. It was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1966 and a National Literary Landmark in 2006. The homestead includes a one-room cabin and nearly 200 acres.

Prior to reopening under Cherokee Nation management in 2017, Sequoyah’s Cabin Museum received much-needed repairs and renovations.

The museum now features large displays that share the story of Sequoyah, his development of the Cherokee syllabary and the Cherokee language today. Additional displays showcase the history of the Cherokee Old Settlers, Cherokee Nation post-removal and the Cherokee Nation today. The museum also features a new retail space offering Cherokee Nation apparel, gifts and souvenirs. 

The museum is located at Highway 101, 7 miles east of Highway 59 in Sallisaw. For more information about Sequoyah’s Cabin Museum, please visit www.VisitCherokeeNation.com.

KXMX News Staff

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