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MAYES COUNTY, OK - Mayes County residents will host a celebration of Cherokee History this weekend at one of the most historic sites in the Cherokee Nation, the Saline Courthouse.

The Cherokee Nation built the Saline Courthouse soon after the Cherokees’ arrival in Indian Territory in 1839. The Saline Courthouse is one of nine district courthouses built by the Cherokee Nation at that time, and is the only one still standing today.

To celebrate the history of the site, local residents are holding the Saline Courthouse Rendezvous September 14-16. For a $10 fee, visitors can camp out "1800's style."

"There’s going to be pre-1840’s camping, so if you think you can camp like they did before 1840, come on out", said Stephanie Wickliffe-Shepherd, Cherokee Nation Tribal Council member.

The camp fee is $10.00 and includes wood, water and Saturday supper. Additional activities include trophy shoots for black power rifle, tomahawk throw, Indian bow shoot, ladies skillet throw, and blowgun shoot. The camping fee includes one shooter per camp. Additional shooters are $3.00 each.

Musicians and singers are invited to entertain jam sessions in the evenings around the campfires. Arts and crafts tents will be provided and booth fee is $20.00. Artists must provide own tables and chairs.

"The fee for a concessions booth is $20.00, but for non-profit groups like ball teams or schools there’s no charge", said Wickliffe-Shepherd.

The Saline Courthouse is located 9 miles east of Locust Grove on Scenic 412, and ¾ mile south at the Delaware County line. For more information contact Perry Winburn, phone: 918-478-8037.