Located on the piece of property now known as Capitol Square in Tishomingo, the Chickasaw National Capitol Building represents the history and culture of the Chickasaw government.

In 1890 the brick council house was in deplorable condition. The building was removed in 1891, under the leadership of Chickasaw Governor R.M. Harris, and in its place the granite Victorian Gothic capitol was erected. Granite for the project was quarried on nearby Pennington Creek.

After Oklahoma statehood in 1907, the Chickasaw Nation was forced to vacate the capitol. The building served as the Johnston County courthouse after 1910. In 1989, under the leadership of Governor Bill Anoatubby, the Chickasaw Nation purchased the historic capitol from the Johnston County government.

Today, the capitol grounds are home to a unique museum that chronicles the history and culture of the Chickasaw people. The museum features the Chickasaw Governor’s Portrait Exhibit, contemporary Chickasaw artwork, a gift shop and a rotating photography exhibit. The original 1856 Chickasaw council house has also been restored and is housed in the Council House Museum.

The Chickasaw Cultural Center will provide visitors a place to embrace, revitalize and share in the rich history and traditions of the Chickasaw people. The stunning state-of-the-art campus features architectural elements such as native stone, wood and copper and will provide a picturesque setting for exhibits, cultural demonstrations and events.

Located on 109 acres of rolling hills, woodlands and streams adjacent to the Chickasaw National Recreation area near Sulphur, the center boasts live performances, high technology multimedia exhibits and galleries as well as natural outdoor spaces to share the history and culture of the Chickasaw Nation. In addition, the campus includes a traditional Chickasaw village, outdoor amphitheater, sky pavilion, honor garden and several special water features.