Join Us for a Special Presentation on Cherokee History with James A. Humphrey

On Saturday, October 17, the Goingsnake Historical District will host author James A. Humphrey for a special presentation at the Henderson Public Library in Westville, Oklahoma. Starting at 10:00 a.m., Humphrey will share insights from his acclaimed Cherokee Trilogy through a program titled “Bondage to Belonging? Cherokee Slavery and Freedmen Through the Lens of The Cherokee Trilogy.” This event offers a rare chance to consider a complex phase of Cherokee history that often remains hidden.

Viewing Cherokee Slavery and Freedmen Through Historical Fiction

James A. Humphrey’s Cherokee Trilogy—comprising Cherokee Rock, Cherokee Rose, and Cherokee Reel—follows the fictional Waters family across generations. The novels trace their lives from the late 1700s through the 1800s, covering key moments like the Cherokee removal, the Civil War, and Reconstruction. Humphrey uses storytelling to bring to life the difficult realities of slavery within the Cherokee Nation and the evolving status of Cherokee Freedmen, African Americans who were once enslaved by the Cherokee.

The presentation will explore how slavery shaped relationships among Cherokee citizens, enslaved African Americans, and Freedmen. It will also examine how the Civil War and its aftermath transformed these dynamics. Humphrey’s work sheds light on how citizenship and belonging changes over time within the Cherokee, a topic that remains relevant today.

This event is more than a history lesson. It invites attendees to reflect on identity, belonging, and the power of historical fiction to reveal stories often overlooked in mainstream narratives. Humphrey’s approach offers a unique Cherokee perspective, enriching our understanding of Native American history.

What to Expect at the Presentation

The program will begin with Humphrey’s talk, followed by a live question-and-answer session. This will give attendees a chance to engage directly with the author, ask about his research sources, and discuss how he weaves history into fiction. It’s a valuable opportunity for anyone interested in Native American history, historical fiction, or the complexities of race and identity in the United States.

After the discussion, Humphrey will be available to autograph copies of his books. Attendees should bring their own copies, as books will not be sold at the event.

Why This Event Matters

The history of Cherokee slavery and Freedmen is often missing from textbooks and public conversations. By focusing on this topic within the depth of Cherokee history and culture, Humphrey’s trilogy helps fill a gap in our collective memory. It challenges us to think about how history shapes identity and how stories from the past continue to influence the present.

For educators and history lovers, this presentation offers fresh material to explore in classrooms or personal study. It also highlights the importance of diverse voices in historical fiction, especially those that come from within the communities they portray.

Recommended Reading to Deepen Your Understanding

If you want to explore Cherokee history further, Humphrey’s Cherokee Trilogy is a great place to start. The novels provide a rich narrative that combines historical facts with compelling characters.

For those interested in supporting local history and culture, the Goingsnake Historical District offers resources and events that connect people with the Cherokee Nation’s past. Visiting the district or the Henderson Public Library can deepen your appreciation of this heritage. Humphrey's presentation will also recommend his favorite sources.

Additionally, the Cherokee Nation Cultural Tourism website offers guided tours, exhibits, and educational materials that complement the themes Humphrey discusses. These resources help bring Cherokee history to life beyond the page.

The Importance of Historical Fiction exploring Cherokee slavery and its history

Historical fiction serves as a bridge between the past and present. It allows us to explore complex themes like identity, belonging, and the impact of historical events on individuals and communities. Through stories, we can better understand the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us.

Humphrey’s Cherokee Trilogy exemplifies this approach. By weaving together fact and fiction, he creates a narrative that resonates with readers. It encourages us to reflect on our own identities and the legacies we inherit.

How to Attend

• Event: “Bondage to Belonging? Cherokee Slavery and Freedmen Through the Lens of The Cherokee Trilogy”

• Presenter: James A. Humphrey, author of The Cherokee Trilogy

• Date: Saturday, October 17

• Time: 10:00 a.m.

• Location: Henderson Public Library, Westville, Oklahoma

• Host: Goingsnake Historical District

• Admission: Free to the public

• Zoom to public view: https://zoom.us/j/6229213860?omn=92386459921

  
  

This event is open to everyone interested in history, literature, and Native American culture. It’s a chance to learn from an author who brings a unique voice to a difficult subject.

Final Thoughts

Events like this one at the Goingsnake Historical District are vital for keeping history alive and relevant. James A. Humphrey’s presentation will help us understand the complex history of Cherokee slavery and Freedmen through engaging storytelling. It reminds us that history is not just about dates and facts but about people’s lives and identities.

If you plan to attend, consider bringing your copies of The Cherokee Trilogy for signing. This is a unique chance to connect with an author who writes from an authentic Cherokee perspective and to deepen your knowledge of a chapter of history that deserves more attention.

Mark your calendar for October 17 and join the conversation about Cherokee history, identity, and the power of stories to shape our understanding of the past.