Cotton fabric and thread

I am a seamstress, quilter and storyteller. I was born in 1952. In 2010, I learned about my family’s history and their connection to the Black Freedmen of the Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations. I am proud of who I am and where I come from.

This quilt tells the story of my ancestors, both from the Chickasaw tribe and people of African descent who were enslaved. I named it "Indian and Black Trails of Tears" to show that both groups faced deep pain and hardship during their forced removal.

All of the appliqués on the quilt are hand-drawn. The quilt is made of cotton fabric, and I’ve included some with African patterns. It is stitched with thread in matching tones to blend with the fabric.

This quilt is my way of honoring the strength and resilience of my ancestors.