Lawton museum's "Comanche Christmas"

Lawton museum unveils 'A Comanche Christmas' this weekThe Comanche National Museum and Cultural Center in Lawton celebrates the spirit of Christmas with the unveiling of a unique outdoor presentation depicting 19th Century Comanche life. The display was unveiled at a Christmas Open House on Dec. 1.

The museum's outdoor exhibition portrays two scenes: a Comanche winter scene and a Nativity Scene with a "Comanche twist." Inspiration for the winter scene came from the works of renowned Comanche Artist Doc Tate Nevaquaya, who often illustrated winter camps in many of his paintings. "Historically, early 19th century Comanches did not celebrate Christmas so we were challenged with finding a way to tell our story and still celebrate the spirit of the season," said Executive Director, Phyllis Wahahrockah-Tasi. "Our representation shows Comanche life as it was on the Plains many years ago," Wahahrockah-Tasi said.Comment:  For more on Indians and Christmas, see An Indian Christmas Carol and The Navajo Santa.

Below:  "Artwork by Comanche artist Quanah Parker Burgess, seen here, is showcased in a unique American Indian outdoor Nativity scene on display at the Comanche National Museum from Dec. 1 to Jan. 3 in Lawton, Okla."