Cherokee Nation Approves $50 Million Plan for New Heritage Center in Tahlequah

By Cherokee 411 Staff

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — Cherokee Nation leaders have approved legislation to construct a new $50 million Cherokee Heritage Center, marking a major step toward revitalizing one of the tribe’s most important cultural landmarks.

Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., Deputy Chief Bryan Warner, and members of the Council of the Cherokee Nation signed the legislation on Sept. 25 during a special Council meeting. The measure, which unanimously passed the Council, amends the Cherokee Heritage Center Act of 2020 and authorizes the tribe to build a state-of-the-art facility that will replace the existing center, which has remained closed since 2020.

Image courtesy Trip Advisor

Plans for the reimagined site include permanent and rotating exhibit spaces, a seven-sided gathering place representing the seven Cherokee clans, a café, public art installations, and architectural designs inspired by woven basketry and natural water features. Construction will occur in two phases, with the first expected to be completed in late 2028.

The new center will be operated by Cherokee Nation Businesses’ Culture and Economic Development team, which manages the tribe’s historic and cultural sites.

Historic landmarks on the property—including the original Cherokee Female Seminary columns—will remain central features in the redesigned campus. Portions of the Tsa-La-Gi Amphitheater, built in 1969, will also be preserved and renovated to create a public overlook and potential performance space in future phases.

“The Council has kept close tabs on this project since the 2020 legislation that restructured the Cherokee National Historical Society,” said Council Speaker Johnny Jack Kidwell. “This major milestone ensures future Cherokee generations have a place to reconnect with and learn more about their culture and heritage.”

The Cherokee National Historical Society board, restructured in 2020, has worked with architects and tribal leaders for five years to develop the new plan. Board Chair Christy Neuhoff said the new center “honors the past while looking to the future,” and thanked the Council and tribal leadership for their support.

Anishinabe Design, a TERO-certified firm, is leading the design in collaboration with Safdie Architects, known for their work on the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Ark.

Brenda Partain, who has served on both the original 1963 and 2020 Historical Society boards, said the project represents decades of dedication. “Back in the ‘90s we knew changes were needed, but we wanted to move forward with respect for this sacred space,” she said. “This $50 million investment brings that vision to life.”