Overton James facts for kids

Overton James (born July 21, 1925 – died September 16, 2015) was an important leader and educator. He served as the Governor of the Chickasaw Nation for many years. After finishing college, he worked as a teacher in Oklahoma. He was first chosen as Governor in 1963. He continued to serve the Chickasaw people until 1987.

Early Life and Education

Overton James was born on July 21, 1925, in Bromide, Oklahoma. His parents, Rufus (Cub) James and Vinnie May Seely, were both Chickasaw. He grew up in Wapanucka, Oklahoma. His Chickasaw name was Itoahtubbi.

After graduating from high school in Wapanucka, James joined the U.S. Navy. He served for two and a half years. Later, he returned to Oklahoma and went to Southeastern State College. This school is now known as Southeastern State University in Durant, Oklahoma. In 1949, he earned a degree in Education.

For the next ten years, Overton James worked as a teacher. He also coached sports in towns like Ravia, Caddo, and Shattuck, Oklahoma. While teaching, he continued his studies. He earned his Master's degree from Southeastern State College in 1955.

Leading the Chickasaw Nation

In 1963, President John F. Kennedy appointed Overton James as Governor of the Chickasaw Nation. At that time, he was the youngest person to hold this important position. He served four terms as a Presidential appointee. After that, the citizens of the Chickasaw Nation elected him for four more terms.

Overton James was a very active leader. He served as president of the Inter-Tribal Council of the Five Civilized Tribes for four terms. He also led the Choctaw-Chickasaw Confederation. He was involved in many other groups, including the State Indian Affairs Commission. He was also a trustee for the National Indian Athletic Hall of Fame. Bill Anoatubby became Governor after James.

Improving Healthcare

Overton James was very concerned about the health of the Chickasaw people. He saw that there were not enough good healthcare facilities. He worked hard to get more support and money from the U.S. government. He talked to leaders at the Indian Health Service (IHS). He also spoke with Carl Albert, who was the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Because of his efforts, IHS opened a health clinic in Tishomingo, Oklahoma, in 1968. This was the first healthcare facility in the Chickasaw Nation. At first, the clinic was open two days a week. Staff also served in Coalgate and Ardmore. People needing hospital care had to travel to distant Indian Hospitals.

Growing Tribal Businesses

Overton James also helped the Chickasaw Nation grow its businesses. He played a key role in the tribe buying the former Artesian Hotel. They renamed it the Chickasaw Motor Inn. This became the first business owned and operated by the tribe. In its first year, the business earned about $100,000.

During his time as Governor, the number of Chickasaw employees grew a lot. It went from about 30 people to around 200. The tribe's income also increased significantly. It rose from about $750,000 to $11 million during his leadership.

Overton James was honored for his contributions. He was inducted into the Chickasaw Hall of Fame in 1987. He often began his speeches as governor with a powerful message. He would say, “I bring you greetings from the great unconquered and unconquerable Chickasaw Nation.”

Later Life and Legacy

Overton James passed away on September 16, 2015. He was 90 years old. His leadership helped the Chickasaw Nation grow stronger and improve the lives of its people.