Press Release
April 25, 2025
Contact: Jessica Brogdon
Oklahoma Historical Society
Office: 405-522-0780
[email protected]
okhistory.org/grants
The Railroad Museum of Oklahoma, Inc. Awarded $3,500 for Oklahoma Heritage Preservation Grant Project
OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma Historical Society (OHS) is pleased to announce that The Railroad Museum of Oklahoma, Inc. has been awarded $3,500 through the Oklahoma Heritage Preservation Grant Program. This funding will support producing a strategic plan for the next four years to help the museum preserve, present and interpret the history of railroading in northwest Oklahoma.
“The Railroad Museum of Oklahoma plays a crucial role in preserving and sharing the history of railroading in northwest Oklahoma,” stated Sen. Roland Pederson, Burlington. “I’m pleased to see this grant support the development of a strategic plan that will help guide the museum’s efforts for years to come. Investments like these ensure that our history remains accessible and engaging for future generations.”
“The Railroad Museum of Oklahoma is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich railroad history of northwest Oklahoma, while also educating the public on the continued importance of the rail industry to our local economy,” said Rep. Chad Caldwell, Enid. “This grant will help the museum develop a strategic plan to enhance its exhibits, expand educational outreach, and promote railroad safety. I appreciate the Oklahoma Historical Society’s commitment to supporting institutions that connect Oklahomans to their history.”
“This grant allows the museum to complete its 2025-29 strategic plan,” stated Mike Marshall, board president. “It will also qualify our museum to apply for future preservation grants from the Oklahoma Historical Society, enabling us to further protect and display our extensive inventory of railroad artifacts and memorabilia.”
The Oklahoma Heritage Preservation Grant Program awarded more than $577,000 to 40 projects statewide this year, supporting initiatives such as collections care, exhibit development, strategic planning and educational programming.
“The Oklahoma Heritage Preservation Grant Program is a powerful tool for connecting communities with their history,” said Trait Thompson, executive director of the Oklahoma Historical Society. “These grants help local organizations preserve and share stories that might otherwise be lost, strengthening our shared identity and ensuring that future generations can experience Oklahoma’s rich heritage.”
The grant program supports tribal and municipal governments and not-for-profit historical organizations throughout the state. Awards range from $1,000 to $25,000 for projects that advance the collection, preservation and sharing of Oklahoma history. Applications for the next grant cycle will open this fall. For more information, visit okhistory.org/grants.
The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people. Founded in 1893 by members of the Territorial Press Association, the OHS maintains museums, historic sites and affiliates across the state. Through its research archives, exhibits, educational programs and publications, the OHS chronicles the rich history of Oklahoma. For more information about the OHS, please visit okhistory.org.
###
