Press Release
April 25, 2025
Contact: Jessica Brogdon
Oklahoma Historical Society
Office: 405-522-0780
[email protected]
okhistory.org/grants
Stillwater History Museum at the Sheerar Awarded $19,086 for Oklahoma Heritage Preservation Grant Project
OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma Historical Society (OHS) is pleased to announce that the Stillwater History Museum at the Sheerar has been awarded $19,086 through the Oklahoma Heritage Preservation Grant Program. This funding will support collecting stories of Stillwater residents — their lives and experiences — to expand how the museum illuminates, preserves and celebrates Stillwater history before those memories are lost.
“Receiving this grant from the Oklahoma Historical Society allows us to preserve the voices and stories of Stillwater residents connected to the Katz Department Store, the Jardot Brickyard and the early days of the History Museum,” stated Catarina DeAraujo, executive director. “Their experiences offer a rare window into nearly a century of small-town traditions, economic shifts and cultural change. Through these interviews, we ensure their memories and insights remain a lasting part of Stillwater’s history for generations to come.”
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.
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