Tyler, TX (KETK) — For around fifteen years, the American Indian Cultural Society has met near Redland, to remember the Battle of the Neches, where the Republic of Texas Army massacred the Cherokee and twelve other tribes in the East Texas area.

On July 16th, 1839, President Mirabeau Lamar led his men into East Texas, to remove the local Native Americans from their land.

And now, Native American descendent invite the community to come out, and learn more about their local history.

If you are leaving Tyler on Highway 64 toward Ben Wheeler and you take a right down County Road 4923, and you make your way down the winding road, you will drive up on history.

There near Redland, is the site of the second day of the Battle of the Neches where many Indians were killed.

And Saturday, the American Indian Cultural Society held their annual gathering to remember that day.

The event involved speeches from decedents, and a little taste of Native American culture.

There were also items up for sale, with all the money going back to preserve the tribal land.

And organizers say that remembering all of our local history benefits everyone.