Portrait of Johnston County Native to Hang at Oklahoma Capitol
February 11th, 2010
A PORTRAIT OF TE ATA, a traditional Chickasaw storyteller born near Tishomingo in 1895, was recently dedicated at a ceremony on the floor of the Oklahoma Senate. The portrait, painted in 1920 by Oklahoma City artist Nellie Shepherd, was sponsored by U.S. Congressman Tom Cole (left), great-nephew of Te Ata, and the Chickasaw Nation, represented by tribal Gov. Bill Anoatubby (right). Joining the pair at the dedication was Senator Jay Paul Gumm (center), who represents Johnston County in the Oklahoma Senate.
Senator Gumm Applauds Dedication of Te Ata Painting
OKLAHOMA CITY – State Sen. Jay Paul Gumm said the recent dedication of a portrait of famed Chickasaw storyteller, Te Ata, was an important event for all the people of Oklahoma. Te Ata was born in the Chickasaw Nation in 1895 and achieved national and international acclaim as a storyteller, preserving folk life and stories for many tribes throughout her lifetime. Te Ata was the aunt of the late State Senator Helen Cole of Moore, and the great aunt of U.S. Congressman Tom Cole.
“Just in the time that I’ve been at the State Capitol, first working on staff for the House of Representatives then later as a State Senator, I’ve seen an ever-increasing acknowledgement of the importance of our Native culture and heritage in Oklahoma,” said Gumm, a Democrat from Durant. “It is there in the Indian Flag Plaza on the north side of the building, and in so much of the artwork and sculpture that now graces our building—and most definitely evident in the Guardian that stands atop the dome. These are outward signs of this acknowledgment—it’s also evident whenever a leader like Gov. Bill Anoatubby honors us with his presence in the Senate Chamber.”
Te Ata attended college at what was then the Oklahoma College for Women in Chickasha and was a classically trained actress, but achieved her fame presenting Native stories on Broadway and throughout Europe, entertaining U.S. Presidents and European royalty. In 1987, Te Ata was named Oklahoma’s first Cultural Treasure. She died in 1995, just a few days before her 100th birthday.
Gumm thanked the Chickasaw Nation for their sponsorship of the portrait which will be permanently displayed at the State Capitol. Gumm has worked closely with the Chickasaw Nation on legislation throughout the years, and says the tribe has been an important partner with the state in many endeavors.
“It is so important for all Oklahomans to fully understand the importance of these relationships with the tribes and the contributions not only culturally but economically as well,” Gumm said. “As Governor Anoatubby told us during the dedication ceremony, Te Ata was a cultural icon, not only for the Chicksaw Nation but for other Native people as well. Her stories represent a vibrant part of Oklahoma’s history and identity.”