In 1844, Mahota traveled to Indian Territory leaving her homeland of Mississippi behind. She was joined by her daughter, Nancy Mahota, in 1852. Their original homeland, revealed on the map, is surrounded by riverways that provided Mahota’s land with ample resources. The Mahota logo highlights the area where her farm was located. East of Mahota’s property is the Natchez Trace, historically used by the Chickasaw, Choctaw, and Natchez people for trade and travel. The Natchez Trace is represented by a depiction of a Chickasaw-designed beaded strap, worn by William Whitley, a noted frontiersman who served alongside Chickasaw Chief Piominko in the Nickajack Expedition. Designed by Margaret Wheeler, the great-great-granddaughter of Mahota, and founder of Mahota Textiles.

Poem:

LIKE WHISPERS CARRIED BY A YEARNING BREEZE

THE LOOM SPINS THREADS INTO ECHOS OF HOME

COLORS INTERLOCKING IN A GATHERING OF OUR PEOPLE