Helen Chupco facts for kids

Helen Chupco (1919-2004) was a remarkable leader from the Seminole and Muscogee tribes. She was a Methodist missionary who helped many people. Helen was also a key member of the Muscogee Nation's government, serving on their council for 23 years. She was recognized by the Oklahoma Senate for her important work.

Early Life and Education

Helen Louise Palmer was born on March 10, 1919. Her hometown was Holdenville, Oklahoma. She was one of seven children in her family. Her mother was Muscogee, and her father was Seminole.

Helen grew up learning about both tribal cultures. She learned to speak the Muscogee language. When she started public school, she learned English. An interpreter helped her understand the lessons.

After finishing her early schooling, Helen went to Chilocco Indian School. She then completed high school in Holdenville. Later, she studied at Hills Business University in Oklahoma City.

Working for Her Community

In the early 1950s, Helen married Rev. Lee Chupco. Together, they worked for the Methodist church. They traveled to help Native American tribes in Oklahoma. Rev. Chupco was a leader for Indian Missions.

Helen became president of the Women's Society of Christian Service. This group was part of the United Methodist Church's Oklahoma Indian Mission. She held this role from 1950 to 1954. She was elected again from 1958 to 1960.

Helen also helped start the Tulsa Indian Center. This center offered advice and support. It helped Native American people adjust to city life. The center received money from the Department of Health, Education and Welfare.

In 1970, Helen joined a special committee. This group watched out for the rights of Native Americans in Oklahoma. In 1971, she was chosen to be a vice president for Church Women United. She was one of only four Native American members on their board.

Tribal Leadership

The Muscogee Nation restarted its government in the 1970s. Helen Chupco was one of the first women chosen to serve on the Muscogee National Council. She was a councilwoman for 23 years.

In 1984, Helen was elected treasurer of the Oklahoma Federation of Indian Women. In 1992, the Oklahoma Senate honored her. They recognized her strong leadership for her tribe.

Later Life and Legacy

Helen Chupco passed away on April 28, 2004, in Muskogee, Oklahoma. She was buried in Holdenville.

To honor her, the Oklahoma Federation of Indian Women created an annual award. It is called the Helen Chupco Leadership Award. This award goes to someone who shows great leadership for their tribe.

Helen was also interviewed for a special project. It was called "Listening to Indians" by the New York Times. Her interview is kept safe at Arizona State University.