The Battle of Ackia or Aahíkkiꞌyaꞌ as the Chickasaw call the event, was a battle between the French and Chickasaw. d’Arteguette launched the assault of Chokkilissa’ (Ogoula Tchetoka in French), about 4 miles north of the town we call Tupelo, Mississippi today. The French military leader attacked on March 24, 1736. As they entered the area, Chickasaw women began singing loudly, and the French troops became disoriented. The singing women wielding hatchets advanced into the battle of Chickasaw warriors and French soldiers, frightening the French and forcing them to retreat. The singing, warring Chickasaw women became known as Hatchet Women. They are revered in Chickasaw history as part of the unconquered and unconquerable.

Poem:

SISTERS FIGHTING ALONGSIDE ONE ANOTHER

THEIR BATTLE CRY, THE SOUND OF MUSIC

CARRYING FORTH THE SONG OF VICTORY