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History Alive!: An Evening with James Madison |
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The Oklahoma History Center is honored to present Colonial Williamsburg’s Bryan Austin in a portrayal of James Madison. Join us for this special presentation of History Alive! in the Chesapeake Event Center and Gallery on Saturday, January 31, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Admission is $10 for Oklahoma Historical Society members and $20 for nonmembers.
In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, this immersive evening offers insight into what Madison may have thought as he helped shape the Constitution, debated the balance of power, and considered the future of the young republic. This event brings history to life for history enthusiasts, students, and anyone curious about the enduring legacy of the Constitution.
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CALLING ALL NINTH-GRADE STUDENTS!
Take part in the Smithsonian Institute's Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange program
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Are you (or do you know) a high schooler with an interest in history and community dialogue? The Oklahoma History Center education leaders and the Smithsonian Institute are partnering together for the Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange Program, which will take place between January and May 2026. The Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange program offers a unique opportunity for ninth-grade students to engage in a close examination of the United States’ 250 years through the development of a collaborative, creative response to the question: How has your community contributed to the American Experience over the past 250 years?
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Date Night at the Museum: Hopes & Dreams |
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On Friday, February 6, from 7 to 9 p.m., the Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center hosts a special couples event for Valentine’s Day. During Date Night at the Museum, guests can stroll through galleries, enjoy themed hors d’oeuvres, create dream boards together, and sip a romantic beverage. This is a unique opportunity to explore the museum and village after dark to see history in a new light.
This self-guided experience is the perfect Valentine’s date night. Show your Valentine they’re the date of your dreams! Tickets are $35 per person. This event is for individuals 21 years of age and older.
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A Very OK Podcast LIVE: Oklahoma's Favorite Son |
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On Thursday, February 12, at 6:00 p.m., join your favorite podcast hosts, Trait Thompson and Dr. Bob Blackburn, at the Will Rogers Memorial Museum for a special live recording of A Very OK Podcast.
The topic for this on-the-road episode is Oklahoma’s favorite son, Will Rogers. They will be discussing his life growing up in the Cherokee Nation, as well as his rise to stardom through vaudeville and motion pictures, his family life, and more! The episode will also feature the history of Will’s connection to US Route 66—the Will Rogers Highway. Special guests for this episode are Tad Jones, director of the Will Rogers Memorial Museum, and Jennifer Rogers, Will’s great-granddaughter.
Admission to this event is free, and refreshments will be generously provided by the Will Rogers Memorial Foundation. Don’t miss this unique opportunity—mark your calendar and join in an engaging evening celebrating Will Rogers!
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“Cultivating a Nation: George Washington, Agriculture, and the 250th” |
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On Saturday, February 21, teachers are invited to join the special event “Cultivating a Nation: George Washington, Agriculture, and the 250th,” held in partnership with George Washington’s Mount Vernon and the Oklahoma History Center Learning and Engagement team.
This professional development program invites educators to dive into the details of George Washington’s innovative approach to farming at Mount Vernon. Through hands-on activities, educators will discover how to integrate STEAM concepts into history instruction, making the past tangible and engaging for students.
In order to enroll, teachers MUST teach in a formal K–12 classroom or school setting. The program is limited to 50 teachers and breakfast, lunch, and classroom swag is included. A waitlist will be available if registration meets full capacity.
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Explore the history and charm of the Fred and Addie Drummond Home in Hominy |
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Explore the history and charm of the Fred and Addie Drummond Home. In 1905, Fred and Addie built a late Victorian–style home in Hominy. The three-story historic home will have an exhibit of antique dolls throughout the month of February. This annual exhibit showcases a selection of rare and unique dolls dating back to the early 1900s—long before Barbie’s popularity—when bisque, porcelain, and leather were used to form dolls. German-made dolls by Armand Marseille, Kestner, and Koppelsdorf will be featured. Beginning on Wednesday, February 4, and running through Saturday, February 28, this exhibit is sure to delight doll collectors and lovers alike.
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COMING IN FEBRUARY
Don't let time run out, secure your Kilgen tickets today!
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On Monday, February 23, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m., a Kilgen Theatre Organ performance will be held in the Devon Great Hall at the Oklahoma History Center featuring organist Brett Miller accompanying the Harold Lloyd silent film Safety Last (1923). The film is best known for a stunt that made cinematic history, in which Lloyd is filmed hanging precariously from the hands of a large clock, dangling over city traffic in downtown Los Angeles at the height of a skyscraper.
Tickets are $10 for Oklahoma Historical Society members and $20 for the general public and are available online or by calling 405-522-0765.
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COMING IN FEBRUARY
Open House: We Heart Museums
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The public is welcome to a special February open house at the Oklahoma History Center Museum (OHCM) on Thursday, February 12, from 5 to 7 p.m. for a unique after-hours experience at the museum where visitors of all ages can explore exhibits in a relaxed, extended setting. Families and adults alike can participate in interactive activities, games, and a scavenger hunt that reveal the inner workings of museums and highlight the rich resources offered by OHCM. See the museum in a new light, learn fascinating facts, and make the most of an evening full of discovery, fun, and learning.
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RESERVE YOUR TICKETS FOR MARCH 19!
Oklahoma Historical Society Annual Awards Banquet
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On Thursday, March 19, the Oklahoma Historical Society will host its annual Awards Banquet at the Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma City. Each year, the Awards Banquet brings together historians, educators, and civic leaders to honor individuals and organizations who have made a significant impact on our understanding of Oklahoma history.
This year, among the awards presented, four individuals will be inducted into the Oklahoma Historians Hall of Fame for their distinguished contributions to Oklahoma history. Recipients are celebrated for their lifelong dedication and excellence in preserving, interpreting, and sharing the state's story. This year, the Oklahoma Historical Society is honored to induct Donald L. Fixico, David W. Levy (posthumously), Linda D. Wilson, and Timothy A. Zwink with this lifetime achievement award.
Steven W. Taylor, former chief justice of the Oklahoma Supreme Court, will be the keynote speaker. OHS Board Member T. S. Akers will serve as emcee for the event.
The event will also celebrate the efforts of outstanding educators, students, and individuals. This includes recognizing Caleb Gayle, author of Black Moses: A Saga of Ambition and the Fight for a Black State, with the E. E. Dale Award for writing the outstanding book on Oklahoma history for 2025.
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For sponsorship inquiries or other ticketing information, please contact Brittney Berling, development officer at brittney.berling@history.ok.gov
Ticket purchase deadline will be Monday, March 9.
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Follow the OHS website calendar to learn about our events and programs at OHS museums and historic sites across the state! Our calendar constantly changes with the latest programs and activities, from seasonal events to celebrations, exhibits, films, educational classes, and workshops.
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Connect with the Oklahoma Historical Society on social media—where you can learn more about Oklahoma history and get up-to-date information about events and exhibits across the state!
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Masthead image:
A howling blizzard with winds up to 70 miles per hour races through Oklahoma City in January 5, 1962 (2012.201.B1265.0133, Oklahoma Publishing Company Photography Collection, OHS).
above:
A snowy road in Clinton, c. 1940 (20596.35, Oklahoma Historical Society Photograph Collection).
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