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November 2024
Washita Love Child: The Rise of Indigenous Rock Star Jesse Ed Davis (2024) book release with Douglas K. Miller
The Oklahoma Historical Society is thrilled to host the book release for Washita Love Child: The Rise of Indigenous Rock Star Jesse Ed Davis (2024) by Douglas K. Miller on the evening of Tuesday, November 12. Dr. Miller will discuss his research on Jesse Ed Davis, a Kiowa/Comanche guitarist who collaborated with music legends such as Bob Dylan, B.B. King, and John Lennon. The book chronicles Davis’s rise from Oklahoma to international fame in the 1960s and 70s, examining his…
Find out more »“Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA)” webinar
On Wednesday, November 13, at 10 a.m. (Central Time), the State Historic Preservation Office (OKSHPO) will host a free webinar to provide an overview of Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). This training is intended to provide and introduction or refresher to Section 106 of the NHPA. The OKSHPO strives to convey the importance of the Section 106 process and to assist those who may be involved in the process in Oklahoma. This presentation addresses the basic…
Find out more »The Shoemaker book discussion and signing with author Retired Major Joe Lee Todd
In honor of Veterans Day, the Oklahoma Historical Society Research Division will host a special presentation of The Shoemaker on Wednesday, November 13, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Musser Learning Lab.
Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame member Rt. Major Joe Lee Todd will discuss Louis Kerbel’s life and times. Todd is the author of The Shoemaker (2021, New Forums Press), a biography of Kerbel based on hours of recorded interviews.
Louis Kerbel was a Russian Jewish man born in Ukraine in 1888 in the village of Roshen. He worked as a shoemaker in Russia. Kerbel lived through unimaginable violence before coming to the United States in 1911 with only 75 cents in his pocket. In 1914, he moved to Oklahoma, where he opened a shoe shop in downtown Tulsa. Due to the violence he endured in Russia, Kerbel felt compelled to assist many African Americans during the Tulsa Race Massacre in 1921 by concealing them in his shoe shop.
Find out more »“Washington Irving” living history programs
The living history programs in November at Fort Gibson Historic Site will focus on American author Washington Irving (1783–1859) and the expeditions he joined during the 1830s, leaving from Fort Gibson. The fort was the westernmost US military outpost at that time—established 200 years ago in 1824, just 8 years before Irving’s expeditions. The programs will be held on November 7–9, 14–16, and 21–23 from 10 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Washington Irving published the American…
Find out more »“National Register of Historic Places: Overview” webinar
On Friday, November 15, from 10 a.m. to noon (Central Time), the State Historic Preservation Office will host a webinar featuring an overview of working with the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). Lynda Ozan, deputy director of the State Historic Preservation Office will be the featured presenter. NRHP is the foundation of the SHPO’s programs, and a basic understanding of the register is essential for those involved in historic preservation at all levels of government and in the private…
Find out more »“Washington Irving” living history programs
The living history programs in November at Fort Gibson Historic Site will focus on American author Washington Irving (1783–1859) and the expeditions he joined during the 1830s, leaving from Fort Gibson. The fort was the westernmost US military outpost at that time—established 200 years ago in 1824, just 8 years before Irving’s expeditions. The programs will be held on November 7–9, 14–16, and 21–23 from 10 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Washington Irving published the American…
Find out more »“The Black Experience and Route 66” program and pop-up exhibit
On Friday, November 15, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Choctaw Freedmen Citizen Footprints (CFCF) is partnering with the Oklahoma Historical Society to share and discuss Black experiences on Route 66 in the Chesapeake Event Center and Gallery at the Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma City. The CFCF will unveil the Oklahoma Freedmen Families and Descendants pop-up exhibit at the event. This exhibit explores the journeys of Freedmen families traveling across Route 66 and other Oklahoma roads, highways, and byways…
Find out more »Dawes Commission in Cherokee Nation: Freedmen Exhibit opens
On Saturday, November 16, the Fort Gibson Historic Site will debut the exhibit Dawes Commission in Cherokee Nation featuring Freedmen history. The exhibit covers a brief historical moment in the late 1800s when formerly enslaved people from across the territory traveled to Fort Gibson to be enrolled in the Dawes Rolls. The Fort Gibson staff has worked directly with Freedmen descendants to curate the photographs of the Freedmen exhibit. Captain McKennon set up an office in one of the officers’ quarters…
Find out more »“Washington Irving” living history programs
The living history programs in November at Fort Gibson Historic Site will focus on American author Washington Irving (1783–1859) and the expeditions he joined during the 1830s, leaving from Fort Gibson. The fort was the westernmost US military outpost at that time—established 200 years ago in 1824, just 8 years before Irving’s expeditions. The programs will be held on November 7–9, 14–16, and 21–23 from 10 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Washington Irving published the American…
Find out more »Embroidery Workshop for Beginners
On Saturday, November 16, between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., Hunter’s Home will hold a free workshop teaching beginners the skill of embroidery. This workshop is best for ages 12 and up. All supplies will be provided, including hoops, fabric, embroidery floss, needles, and sewing accessories. The workshop will be held inside the Hunter's Home kitchen or on the east porch, depending on the weather.
Find out more »History Alive! on the Cherokee Strip
Step back in time and experience life in the Cherokee Outlet during History Alive! on the Cherokee Strip at the Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center in Enid. On the first and third Saturday of each month, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the five historic territorial buildings in the Humphrey Heritage Village come to life with reenactors dressed in period clothing from the late 1800s. Attendees can sit at school desks in the Turkey Creek one-room schoolhouse while lessons are…
Find out more »Introduction to Knitting: Make your own Mug Cozy workshop
On Saturday, November 16, the Oklahoma History Center will hold a knitting workshop. Participants will learn basic knitting skills and knit a custom mug cozy for themselves or as a gift for another. The class is intended for beginners. The class will enjoy a hot chocolate bar with all the fixings and snacks. The class is $20 for members and $25 for nonmembers. Register for the Mug Cozy workshop.
Find out more »Kilgen Theatre Organ performance featuring Dennis Scott and the silent film Speedy (1928) starring Harold Lloyd
On Monday, November 18, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., a Kilgen Theatre Organ performance will be held in the Devon Great Hall at the Oklahoma History Center (OHC) featuring organist Dennis Scott accompanying the Harold Lloyd silent film Speedy (1924). Dennis Scott is an award-winning and internationally known silent film organist. He is currently the house organist at Chicago’s historic Music Box Theatre. Scott’s style is compared to his legendary mentor, John Muri. Suzanne Lloyd, granddaughter of the comic genius Harold…
Find out more »1850s Christmas Traditions program begins
Visit Hunter’s Home—the only remaining pre–Civil War plantation home in Oklahoma—for a genuine 1850s Christmas experience from Tuesday, November 19 through Friday, December 13. During these dates, the historic home will be decorated in the style of an 1850s Christmas. Did you know that in 1850, the Christmas holiday was just beginning to include traditions we know today? In that time period, Christmas was a more modest occasion. Christmas trees may have been just generous branches, small in size, and…
Find out more »Oklahoma Historical Society Executive Committee meeting *canceled*
The Oklahoma Historical Society Executive Committee previously scheduled for November 20 has been canceled. Agendas will be available online 24 hours prior to the meeting at okhistory.org/BOARD. Unless otherwise noted, all meetings are held at the Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive, Oklahoma City, OK, 73105.
Find out more »“Washington Irving” living history programs
The living history programs in November at Fort Gibson Historic Site will focus on American author Washington Irving (1783–1859) and the expeditions he joined during the 1830s, leaving from Fort Gibson. The fort was the westernmost US military outpost at that time—established 200 years ago in 1824, just 8 years before Irving’s expeditions. The programs will be held on November 7–9, 14–16, and 21–23 from 10 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Washington Irving published the American…
Find out more »“Washington Irving” living history programs
The living history programs in November at Fort Gibson Historic Site will focus on American author Washington Irving (1783–1859) and the expeditions he joined during the 1830s, leaving from Fort Gibson. The fort was the westernmost US military outpost at that time—established 200 years ago in 1824, just 8 years before Irving’s expeditions. The programs will be held on November 7–9, 14–16, and 21–23 from 10 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Washington Irving published the American…
Find out more »“Washington Irving” living history programs
The living history programs in November at Fort Gibson Historic Site will focus on American author Washington Irving (1783–1859) and the expeditions he joined during the 1830s, leaving from Fort Gibson. The fort was the westernmost US military outpost at that time—established 200 years ago in 1824, just 8 years before Irving’s expeditions. The programs will be held on November 7–9, 14–16, and 21–23 from 10 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Washington Irving published the American…
Find out more »December 2024
Tenth Annual Holiday Market at the Museum
The Museum of the Western Prairie in Altus will host its tenth annual Holiday Market at the Museum on Tuesday, December 3, at 6 p.m. The event will showcase the talents of local artists who will be selling their unique work, including paintings, jewelry, pottery, fused glass, works in wood, and more. This is a great opportunity to support both the artists and the museum while doing your holiday shopping. The market is free and open to the public. Visitors…
Find out more »Museum After Dark: Christmas in the Village
A Victorian-style Christmas experience will return to the Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center in Enid with “Museum After Dark: Christmas in the Village.” The beautifully decorated Humphrey Heritage Village will be full of holiday cheer from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, December 6. With the purchase of regular admission, visitors will see some of the unique Christmas traditions that early Cherokee Outlet settlers may have brought with them. A cottage market will be set up, and guests can purchase…
Find out more »Guthrie Distinctive Homes Tour and Wassail at the Carnegie Library
The Oklahoma Territorial Museum and Carnegie Library will participate in a tour showcasing some of Guthrie’s most distinctive homes and historic buildings on Saturday, December 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors will hear tales of the early days of Oklahoma’s first capital. Wassail will be served at the Carnegie Library to warm the hearts and hands of tour participants. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased online from the Guthrie Territorial Christmas Foundation. Tickets can also be purchased…
Find out more »History Alive! on the Cherokee Strip
Step back in time and experience life in the Cherokee Outlet during History Alive! on the Cherokee Strip at the Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center in Enid. On the first and third Saturday of each month, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the five historic territorial buildings in the Humphrey Heritage Village come to life with reenactors dressed in period clothing from the late 1800s. Attendees can sit at school desks in the Turkey Creek one-room schoolhouse while lessons are…
Find out more »Photos with Santa
The Heritage Gallery at Will Rogers Memorial Museum will be the perfect backdrop for taking photos with Santa on Saturday, December 7, and Saturday, December 14, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring your family, camera, or phone to take beautiful family pictures with Santa. Admission is free to take photos. For more information, please visit willrogers.com or call 918-341-0719.
Find out more »Christmas Tea
On Sunday, December 8, the Cherokee Strip Museum in Perry will host a Christmas Tea from 1:30 to 4 p.m. This event coincides with the Christmas Tour of Homes in Perry when the museum opens its doors to the public. The museum, the gazebo, and Rose Hill School will have festive holiday decorations to set the mood for an old-fashioned Christmas. Historical interpreters in Victorian dress and 3rd- and 4th-grade carolers will add to the seasonal splendor. Guests can enjoy…
Find out more »Museum Store Annual Holiday Sale
The Oklahoma History Center’s annual holiday sale in the Museum Store will take place on Thursday, December 12, and Friday, December 13. Oklahoma Historical Society members will get a 25% discount on merchandise, and the general public will receive a 10% discount. Several items will be marked down for this sale. There is no charge to visit the Museum Store. The Museum Store is full of unique gift items related to Oklahoma history and culture, including kitchenware, shirts, books, toys,…
Find out more »Museum Store Annual Holiday Sale
The Oklahoma History Center’s annual holiday sale in the Museum Store will take place on Thursday, December 12, and Friday, December 13. Oklahoma Historical Society members will get a 25% discount on merchandise, and the general public will receive a 10% discount. Several items will be marked down for this sale. There is no charge to visit the Museum Store. The Museum Store is full of unique gift items related to Oklahoma history and culture, including kitchenware, shirts, books, toys,…
Find out more »1850s Christmas Traditions program ends
Visit Hunter’s Home—the only remaining pre–Civil War plantation home in Oklahoma—for a genuine 1850s Christmas experience from Tuesday, November 19 through Friday, December 13. During these dates, the historic home will be decorated in the style of an 1850s Christmas. Did you know that in 1850, the Christmas holiday was just beginning to include traditions we know today? In that time period, Christmas was a more modest occasion. Christmas trees may have been just generous branches, small in size, and…
Find out more »Holiday Open House
On Saturday, December 14, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Pioneer Woman Museum and Statue will host a Holiday Open House. Celebrate the season in style with the Pioneer Woman Museum. Guests will have free admission to all museum galleries, enjoy special holiday deals in the museum’s gift shop, and savor the flavors of a hot chocolate bar with all the fixings.
Find out more »Photos with Santa
The Heritage Gallery at Will Rogers Memorial Museum will be the perfect backdrop for taking photos with Santa on Saturday, December 7, and Saturday, December 14, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring your family, camera, or phone to take beautiful family pictures with Santa. Admission is free to take photos. For more information, please visit willrogers.com or call 918-341-0719.
Find out more »Pawnee Bill Ranch Association Annual Members’ Meeting and Meal
The Pawnee Bill Ranch Association Annual Members' Meeting and Meal will take place in the Big Barn from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, December 14. The meeting will be followed by a light lunch. The meal and meeting are open to Ranch Association members or those who desire to become members. The meeting will be held before the Pawnee Bill Ranch and Museum’s Holiday Open House opens to the public from 1 to 3 p.m. on the same…
Find out more »“Christmas at the Fort: 19th-Century Traditions” program
Fort Towson Historic Site will host Christmas at the Fort on Saturday, December 14, from 1-3 p.m. The theme for 2024 is “19th-Century Traditions.” Guests can learn about 19th-century traditions and meet a soldier in an 1860s military camp anxiously waiting to receive packages from home. A living history interpretation will depict some of the long-lasting Christmas traditions that continue to be practiced today and others that have been long forgotten. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be warming up to…
Find out more »Holiday Open House
On Saturday, December 14, Pawnee Bill Ranch and Museum will host its annual Holiday Open House from 1 to 3 p.m. Visitors can view seasonal decorations throughout the home of the world-renowned Wild West Show entertainer Gordon W. “Pawnee Bill” Lillie. Holiday decorations will adorn some of the outbuildings at the 500-acre working ranch. There will be tram rides, family-friendly activities, children’s crafts, and an opportunity to take a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Hot cocoa and cookies will…
Find out more »Drummond Christmas Open House
Celebrate Christmas with an open house at the historic Fred and Addie Drummond Home in Hominy on Saturday, December 14, from 1 to 4 p.m. Every room of the 118-year-old house will be decorated for the Christmas season. Musicians Jim Garling, Suzanne Wooley, and friends will perform live music in the parlor. Author Rosanne McKee and Osage storyteller Diane Fallis will participate in the festivities. McKee, a former writer for the Pawhuska Journal-Capital and the Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise, will read passages from her…
Find out more »“A Quilter’s Christmas” – The Sod House 130th Anniversary celebration
The Sod House Quilters are stepping in to celebrate and commemorate the 130th anniversary of the Sod House the “quilted way.” Christmas trees throughout the museum will be decorated with quilt blocks such as log cabins, yo-yos, four patches, stars, and Christmas tree blocks, and the Sod House itself will have seasonal decorations on display. “A Quilter’s Christmas” open house will be on Saturday, December 14, from 1 to 3 p.m. The Friends of the Sod House Museum will celebrate…
Find out more »Christmas Candlelight Tour at Fort Gibson
The Fort Gibson Historic Site Christmas Candlelight Tour will take place on Saturday, December 14, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Bundle up to experience the magic of the Fort Gibson site after hours. Guests will be led by candlelight through scenes of 19th-century life in the palisade and the surrounding grounds. Enjoy the sounds of Christmas music and the smells of mulled cider, and see the Indian Territory frontier post after dark. The tours will be family-friendly and should take about…
Find out more »Christmas Open House
On Sunday, December 15, from noon to 8 p.m., Hunter’s Home will host its annual Christmas Open House. The historic home will be decorated as it would have been at Christmas in the 1850s, with Christmas music playing throughout the day. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be ready for photos. Refreshments will be available during the day, and candles around the home will be lit after dark. This is a chance to make new Christmas memories as visitors join the…
Find out more »“Winter Traditions and Cheer” living history program
The Fort Gibson Historic Site will celebrate winter traditions and cheer in a series of December living history programs. The programs will take place on December 19–21 from 10 a.m. to noon and again from 1 to 4 p.m. Soldiers separated from loved ones, stationed at Fort Gibson tended to livestock, continued training, and found small ways to celebrate the season, bringing cheer among their ranks. Winter on the frontier military post required that oxen, horses, and mules were fed,…
Find out more »“Winter Traditions and Cheer” living history program
The Fort Gibson Historic Site will celebrate winter traditions and cheer in a series of December living history programs. The programs will take place on December 19–21 from 10 a.m. to noon and again from 1 to 4 p.m. Soldiers separated from loved ones, stationed at Fort Gibson tended to livestock, continued training, and found small ways to celebrate the season, bringing cheer among their ranks. Winter on the frontier military post required that oxen, horses, and mules were fed,…
Find out more »Christmas on the Prairie
On Friday, December 20, from 5 to 9 p.m., the Cherokee Strip Museum and Rose Hill School will hold a “Christmas on the Prairie” gathering to celebrate the holiday spirit and experience the warmth of the community. The event will include festive activities and refreshments to celebrate the season together. This evening event is a great way to meet with friends and make memories that connect to meaningful histories at the CSM—where the present meets the past!
Find out more »Winter Bake Day
Fresh-baked gingerbread soldiers, nurses, and laundresses will be served at Fort Gibson Historic Site’s Winter Bake Day on Saturday, December 21. The smell of fresh-baked gingerbread cookies will fill the crisp autumn air on Garrison Hill as staff and volunteers once again bring the 1860s military bakehouse to life. Cookies are made from 19th-century recipes and include candy trimmings similar to those from the 19th century. Children may decorate their cookies at the Fort Gibson Commissary decoration station, or purchase…
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