S7, E7: Unveiling Samuel Stitt’s “Eternal Heart” Choctaw Ireland Monument; Commemorating the Great Irish Famine

This summer, I embarked on a road trip to Tuskahoma, Oklahoma, for our annual Choctaw Labor Day Festival. Nestled among the rolling hills of the Kiamichi Mountains, the event was a vibrant celebration featuring stickball tournaments, frybread, gourd dancing, and Choctaw Village activities. While these cherished traditions always make the journey worthwhile, this year's experience was especially meaningful.

On August 30, 2024, we honored the historic Choctaw monetary gift sent to the Irish during the Great Famine with the unveiling of the Eternal Heart monument, created by Choctaw sculptor Sam Guerrero Stitt. This remarkable piece stands as a companion to the Kindred Spirit monument in Midleton, County Cork, Ireland, designed by Alex Pentek.

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to The National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park, the Irish Heritage Trust, the Sharing Lands research group, and the Government of Ireland Emigrant Support Programme for their invaluable collaboration and support. Special thanks also go to the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma for making this moment possible!

The connection between the Irish and the Choctaw is a profound testament to kindred spirits—a friendship forged through hardship and solidified by an enduring act of compassion. We honor the struggles and resilience of our Choctaw and Irish ancestors, whose spirits continue to inspire us. May this bond of kinship flourish for generations to come.

Yakoke to my esteemed guests: Chief Gary Batton, Seth Fairchild, Claire Green Young, and, of course, the talented sculptor behind the Eternal Heart, Sam Stitt!

 

The National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park: https://strokestownpark.ie/national-famine-museum/

 

The Irish Heritage Trust: https://irishheritagetrust.ie/

 

Government of Ireland Emigrant Support Programme: https://www.ireland.ie/en/irish-diaspora/emigrant-support-programme/ 

 

Choctaw-Ireland Scholarship Program: https://chahtafoundation.com/scholarships/choctawirelandscholarship/ 

 

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