Governor Bill Anoatubby
Good Springs convention, historic Capitol set a solid foundation
By Bill Anoatubby, Governor, Chickasaw Nation
The Chickasaw Nation has survived and flourished throughout our history because of the perseverance and fortitude of the Chickasaw People. For centuries, Chickasaws have overcome obstacles, adapted to changing times and environments, and thrived despite challenges. The strength of the Chickasaw Nation remains in the people and families that make up our vibrant nation.
Support, encouragement, hard work and community are the principles our people carried with them to Indian Territory after Removal as they rebuilt a Chickasaw society and erected towns and communities. Faith, education, family and a devotion to progress sustained our people and the Chickasaw Nation through this time of rebuilding a way of life. Because of the work of our ancestors and their commitment to our future, we have a duty to uphold and strengthen the very foundation of the Chickasaw Nation – our people.
Our people’s strength and commitment was evident in Indian Territory as Chickasaws wrote and ratified our first constitution in 1856 during a constitutional convention at Good Springs on Pennington Creek in Tishomingo. Our government was taking form as we were planning our future and forging an identity through entrepreneurship and economic progress.
In fact, this year marks 125 years since the Chickasaw National Capitol was built in Tishomingo in 1898. It served as the seat of our tribal government until Oklahoma statehood. Though the building changed hands over the years, the Chickasaw Nation reclaimed the Capitol in 1992 because of its importance and significance to our early progress. Today, the Chickasaw National Capitol is a museum where visitors can learn about the early life of our government, our early governors and more. It also serves as a reminder that the Chickasaw people fought for tribal identity, independence and sovereignty, a task we are undertaking to this day.
There have been many eras of our history that highlight the strength, adaptability and resilience of our people. Indian Territory for Chickasaws, though often tumultuous, was a great example of these traits and the ability to look forward. The unrelenting passion and pride of Chickasaws set the tone for generations to follow. It is the foundation laid during this time that we continue to build upon today and the reason we vigorously protect our sovereignty, self-governance and ability to be self-sufficient.
We will continue to create opportunities for success and empowerment, and we will continue to look to the future in order to make an even stronger Chickasaw Nation for those that come after us. Together, we remain united and steadfast in our mission to enhance the overall quality of life of the Chickasaw