America’s first major prima ballerina, Maria Tallchief would have turned 99 on Jan. 24. In honor of her birthday the Oklahoma Historical Society shared a collection of photos commemorating her career and achievements.
Tallchief was born on January 24, 1925, to parents Alexander and Ruth Porter Tall Chief in Fairfax, Okla. Being of Osage decent Tallchief learned many of the traditions of the Nation through her grandmother Eliza Bigheart Tall Chief.
When Maria was 8-years-old her mother wanted to provide more opportunities for her family so they moved to California.
While in California Maria took piano and dance lessons, the latter leading her to a career her long lasting career, little did she know at the time. In her younger years Maria improved on her skills and techniques working hard to be recognized as a dancer.
After graduating from high school, Maria moved to New York City where she began apprentice work at the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo.