Cultural Video Features
Video features highlight aspects of Choctaw culture and heritage.
Standing Pine Residents Discuss Choctaw Language & Culture
Ruth Williams and Barbara Sam talk with Lane Denson, of the Choctaw Tribal Language Program of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. The three different generations share their thoughts on growing up and working in Mississippi, as well as the Choctaw language and culture.
We are very interested to hear your thoughts on this conversation. Any words or phrases you might say differently? Please visit our YouTube channel and let us know.
In this video, members of the Department of Chahta Immi demonstrate how to make a traditional Choctaw food called banaha.
Baking Over the Coals
Highlighted in this video is the art of of traditional Choctaw cooking.
Tribal elder Bobby Joe shares his passion for Choctaw chanting.
Shilop Washówa: Choctaw Christmas Traditions
Mrs. Evaline Davis shares some of her memories about a past Choctaw Christmas tradition somtimes refered to as Shilop Washówa or Alpísa (Christmas Tree).
Choctaw Christmas Traditions
Mrs. Dora Nickey describes some of the past Choctaw Christmas traditions that she remembers from her childhood.
The Legend of the Nanih Waiya Staff by Wagoner Amos
Wagoner Amos shares a story that was told to him by his elders. The story concerns the Nanih Waiya mound and the sacred staff.
Owatta (Traditional Hunting)
Hunting was a way of life for the Choctaws in times past. The use of handmade weapons and hunting skills provided needed sustenance. Today’s elders provide their insight into ancient hunting ways.
HOMINY CORN PREPARATION
Donna Williams describes the 4 step process of preparing hominy corn the traditional Choctaw Way
Life of A Choctaw Sharecropper
After the removal of the Choctaws to the west, the remaining Choctaws faced hardships. Being in dire poverty, and no work to be found, the Choctaws turned to the work of sharecropping to survive.
CHOCTAW CLOTHES: A Stitch Between Past & Present
The unique style of the Choctaw dress and shirt are one of the identifiable items in the Choctaw culture. The evolution of the design and style of the shirts and dresses and how they are made is discussed in this video.
THE GAMES WE PLAYED
Recreation and game playing have been a part of the Mississippi Choctaws for many generations. From rolling a tire down a hill, to the ancient game of stickball, the Choctaws enjoyed their games.
THE GENEROUS SPIRIT OF THE CHOCTAW
Historians often wrote of how the Choctaws were by nature, a peace loving and compassionate group. Ready to lend a helping hand to a neighbor in a time of need. This feature will show the spirit of generosity that personifies the Choctaw people.
CHOCTAW INDIAN FAIR
A retro look at the Choctaw Indian Fair from its small beginnings. It stands as a showplace for Choctaw traditions and culture, and a homecoming.
R.J., one of the best-known Choctaw fiddle players, is recognized in this video along with other notable fiddle players. Choctaw fiddle playing and Choctaw house dancing have played a part in the social world of the Mississippi Choctaw.
Traditional Choctaw Hymns
In this feature, Mr. Richardson Isaac will describe his experience in learning Choctaw Hymns. He and his brother, Williamson Isaac, were raised in a Christian household and continue to pass down what they were taught. Performing the Choctaw Hymns are Williamson Isaac, Richardson Isaac, and Thelma Barnes
A Lesson From Morning Chores
Tribal elder Billy Chickaway shares a life lesson experience about responsibility.