NSU Library showing special Trail of Tears collection

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University’s John Vaughan Library will have a special collection centered around the Trail of Tears, now through May 31.

NSU is honoring the lives lost and pain endured of those forced on the Trail of Tears by presenting a commemorative, special collection. Courtney Helm, Instructor of Library Services, curated the display to curated the display to not only bring honor to those affected by the act, but also to inform audiences and inspire people to reflect on it.

Located on the first floor of the library next to the Atrium, the exhibit highlights a variety of DVDs and books that explore the Indian Removal Act of 1838 and the Trail of Tears.

“Many of these titles are from our Special Collections; while they must remain within the library, I encourage students and faculty to find a comfortable spot here to explore them,” Helm said. “My hope is to foster a deeper awareness of this history, ensuring we never forget the resilience of Indigenous People.”

NSU’s special collections gather, preserve and share Native American material for students and the general public to use. These collections include materials such as books, digital materials, newspapers, oral history and more which focus on the history, anthropology and language of Native American cultural heritage.

In addition to the collection, the library also hosted a series of guest lectures discussing the history and memory of the Trail of Tears.

For more information, visit the John Vaughan Library website (library.nsuok.edu).

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