Field, Forest & Stream: The History of Oklahomans and the Outdoors
Contact: David Davis
(405) 522-0780
Oklahoma City, OK
April 1, 2008
For Immediate Release
The Oklahoma History Center and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation are proud to present a new, special exhibition at the Oklahoma History Center entitled Field, Forest & Stream: The History of Oklahomans and the Outdoors. Beginning on April 4, 2008, Field, Forest & Stream will relate the history of outdoor recreation and conservation in Oklahoma. The exhibit space will include historical artifacts, dynamic graphics, audio-visual elements, and fun, hands-on interactive features.
Visitors to the exhibition will find lots of interesting things to see and do. Artifacts and manuscripts from collections such as those of the aviator and avid outdoorsman Wiley Post, the pioneering outdoor television producer Don Wallace, and various Oklahoma-based companies will be on display throughout the exhibit space. The beautiful craftsmanship of a Plains Indian bow and quiver, the diverse shapes and colors of Oklahoma-made fishing lures, and the charm of vintage Oklahoma camping equipment are just a few of the artifacts you will discover.
Three main topic sections will be represented as hiking trails that guests will follow. Follow the Water Trail to learn the history of Oklahoma’s streams, rivers, and lakes. At the turn of the nineteenth century, rivers and prairie streams were the highways upon which the early explorers and settlers depended as they crossed the wilds of Indian Territory. Later, as some of these waterways were dammed to create the large lakes we know today, sporting opportunities increased for all Oklahomans. You will find a high-definition video aquarium with real-life Oklahoma game fish species displayed in their natural setting. A hands-on catfish noodling activity will allow you to experience what only a brave few have tried as holes and crevices in a simulated cut bank provide different tactile sensations.
Take a stroll down the Forest Trail to learn about the development of Oklahoma’s national forests, game management areas, wildlife refuges, preserves, and state parks. Since the Territorial Legislature of the 1890s enacted the first hunting laws it has been a long road to recovery for Oklahoma’s wildlife. On the Forest Trail, visitors will experience this dramatic comeback and how Oklahomans past and present have enjoyed this valuable resource. The Forest Trail will include a life-size hunting blind interactive that will give the visitor a choice between a number of outdoor sport and conservation activities with a history lesson or two thrown in.
If you walk down the Camp Trail section of the exhibit, you will experience the cultural history behind this popular form of outdoor recreation. See and experience examples of vintage camping equipment, camping methods, and Oklahoma recipes from over the years. For those who love to sit by the campfire, the Camp Trail section will feature camp stories told in an interactive presentation.
The Field, Forest & Stream Exhibit will run from April 4, 2008 through the end of 2008.