EXTRA! - May your days be merry and bright

Oklahoma Historical Society sent this bulletin at 11/22/2023 05:00 AM CST

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A photo taken at the holidays of the interior setting of a writing table, cabinets and window at the Enid Land Office with Christmas decorations

History Center Research Museums & Sites Preservation Publications

November 22, 2023

Two Civil War Union Soldier reenactors, a woman in period clothing, and Santa sit in chairs by a Christmas tree

Celebrate with the Oklahoma Historical Society!

A collage of OHS holiday events. A holiday mantle, Santa, Christmas Crafts, candle lantern, young carolers, and decorations are pictured.

Looking for a warming cup of wassail, or a candlelight tour? Whether you want to experience a Civil War-era Christmas, enjoy the sounds of the season, do a little light shopping, or stop in for a spot of tea—we've got you covered! Simply click on the button below to read more about all December holiday events planned at OHS museums and historic sites near you!

December calendar of events

A multicolored "Friendship Star" quilt with a star pattern and a mix of calico fabrics

One lucky winner...

Celebrate Christmas the pioneer way at the Sod House Museum on Saturday, December 9, from 1 to 3 p.m. Share in the festivities of the site's Christmas Open House, including holiday music with Silver Strings of Carmon, traditional decorations, and treats prepared by the Friends of the Sod House.

At the event, one lucky winner will take home a handmade quilt! Tickets will be sold for a drawing of a beautiful queen-size “Friendship Star” quilt, (detail at right). The winner will be announced at 2:30 p.m. Winners need not be present to win!

The Christmas Open House is the site’s way of expressing thanks to friends, volunteers, and the community for all of the dedication and continued support of the museum over the past year. For more information, contact Director Renee Trindle at 580-463-2441 or sodhouse@history.ok.gov.

Donnie Rankin with an organ featured in the background

Kilgen Theatre Organ performance featuring Donnie Rankin and the classic silent film Steamboat Bill, Jr.

The November performance of the Kilgen Theatre Organ at the Oklahoma History Center (OHC) will feature Donnie Rankin IV accompanying the Buster Keaton classic film Steamboat Bill, Jr. (1928). Rankin is internationally known, having played for theatre organ audiences worldwide, including appearances in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

The performance will take place on Monday, November 27, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Devon Great Hall of the OHC. Tickets are $10 for Oklahoma Historical Society members and $20 for the general public and are available by calling 405-522-0765.

Buy Kilgen tickets online

Silver Selections from the USS Oklahoma

The Oklahoma History Center Museum will have pieces of silver service from the USS Oklahoma on display starting Monday, November 27, to commemorate the anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. The complete set consists of 55 pieces. Only select pieces will be available for public view.

On December 7, 1941, the USS Oklahoma was one of eight battleships docked at the Pearl Harbor Naval Base in Honolulu, Hawaii, when it came under attack by the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service. The USS Oklahoma suffered 429 casualties, and the battleship capsized due to multiple torpedo strikes.

Silver Selections from the USS Oklahoma will be displayed through January 5, 2024. For more information, please call 405-522-0765.

OHS Executive Director Trait Thompson, former Governors George Nigh and Brad Henry

LISTEN TO THE LATEST

“A Conversation Between Governors”

To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Oklahoma Territorial Museum in Guthrie, the Daughters of the American Revolution hosted a fireside chat between former governors Brad Henry (2003-2011) and George Nigh (1979-1987) at the Guthrie Scottish Rite Temple in October 2023. The conversation was recorded in front of a live studio audience and is the latest episode of A Very OK Podcast. It was moderated by Trait Thompson and Michael Williams, registrar, and collections specialist at the Oklahoma Territorial Museum. The governors delved into a wide array of topics, including views on public service, their accomplishments while in office, and bipartisanship. Both governors are great storytellers and the listener will gain critical insight into each man’s time at the helm of Oklahoma’s government.

Pillows, Books, Stuffed Animals, Fabric Coasters, Photo Coasters, Socks at the Oklahoma History Center Museum Store

Museum store annual holiday sale

The Oklahoma History Center’s annual holiday sale in the Museum Store will occur on Friday, December 1, and Saturday, December 2, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Oklahoma Historical Society members will get a total discount of 25%. Staff and volunteers will get a total discount of 30%. The general public will receive a 10% discount on regularly priced merchandise. Several items will be on sale. There is no charge to visit the Museum Store.

The Museum Store contains unique gift items related to Oklahoma history and culture, including kitchenware, books, toys, and decorative items. All proceeds from the Museum Store help fund and support the mission and programs of the OHCM.

For those hard-to-shop-for friends and family, remember to give the gift of history by gifting them with an Oklahoma Historical Society membership! Store associates can help you purchase an OHS gift membership.

Visit store.okhistory.org to see hundreds of gift ideas and shop online. For more information please contact the Museum Store at 405-522-5214 or museumstore@history.ok.gov.

An advertisement for a Christmas concert featuring a photo of the singer Darla Z.

SAVE THE DATE!

On Friday, December 15, at 7 p.m., singer/songwriter Darla Z will perform “A Night of Christmas Music” live at the Oklahoma History Center in a benefit concert for the Center. Darla Z will perform some of the season’s favorite Christmas tunes, including “O Holy Night,” “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” and the most beloved of Christmas songs, “White Christmas.” Special guests include renowned comedian and musician Al Fike, who has previously shared the stage with the legendary Bob Hope, Zig Ziglar, Ricky Skaggs, Lee Greenwood, and many others. His performance will showcase his comical talent and musical aptitude. Santa Claus will also make an appearance to take photos with guests.