Text- messaging lets teens talk in code

Today, talking in code may look something like "RUOK?" or "TTYL."

Many teens enamored with text-messaging would know this to mean, "Are you OK?" and "Talk to you later."

But decades ago, some codes words being used were the Choctaw "tushka chipota" and Navajo "atsȡ."

The words, which translate into "soldier" and "transport plane" in code, were part of an entire vocabulary used by hundreds of Native American soldiers during both World Wars to send and receive secret messages.

As a way to explore this time in American history, the Barrington Area Historical Society opens a new exhibit next month called "Code Talker, Native Word, Native Warriors."

"This is a great story because it hasn't really been told," said Michael Harkins, president of the Barrington Area Historical Society.

The exhibit, developed by the Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian and the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service, tells the story of soldiers from more than a dozen tribes who used their Native American languages while in the U.S. military.

"They were instrumental in several conflicts we were in during World War I and World War II," Harkins said.

In addition to 15 large-scale banners, the exhibit includes videos examining the development of the code, battlefield experiences and the sharp turnaround many of them experienced as they transitioned from American Indian boarding schools where they were punished for speaking their Native language to using it as their call to duty for their country.

The exhibit is scheduled to open Aug. 6 at the Historical Society, 212 W. Main Street in Barrington. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for senior citizens and $2 for students.

The Code Talker exhibit follows the historical society's current Native American exhibit.

While "An Exhibit of Native American Portraits by McKenney & Hall 1836-1850" was scheduled to end Monday, Harkins said it has been so well received they plan on extending its run.

"It has just been outstanding," Harkins said. "I think we will keep it extended for another couple of weeks."

At 2 p.m. today, Herman Bender, historian and Native American expert, will give guided tours of the exhibit, which features rare original portraits of Native Americans.

For more information on either exhibit, visit bahsil.org or call (847) 381-1730.

If you go

What: "Code Talkers, Native Word, Native Warriors," a new exhibit on Native American Code Talkers

When: Runs Aug. 6 to Sept. 6; hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday

Where: Barrington Area Historical Society, 212 W. Main Street, Barrington

Cost: $5 for adults, $3 for senior citizens and $2 for students

Information: (847) 381-1730 or bahsil.org