The state of Oklahoma turned 115 years previous this week.
On November 16, 1907, President Theodore Roosevelt signed the statehood proclamation, declaring Oklahoma fortunate No. 46.
Choctaw Chief Allen Wright urged the identify Oklahoma which implies “red people” throughout treaty negotiations. The identify was supposed to signify the folks indigenous to the land.
When celebrating the state’s basis, most start with its historical past.
The basement on the Oklahoma History Center holds valuable moments within the state’s life.
Some might name this OHC interim director Jeff Briley’s area.
“The variety of stories are just rich beyond all get out,” Briley stated.
He devoted 43 years of his life to the archives, images, paperwork and maps held beneath floor.
“Each part is unique,” Briley stated. “Each part contributes to the whole, and each part is worth exploring.”
Even the components of that Oklahomans see day by day, just like the state flag.
“This is as close to original as it gets,” stated Briley whereas pulling out a framed, hand painted flag bearing the identify: Louise Fluke.
Briley stated Fluke designed the flag after a visit to the Oklahoma Historical Society in 1926.
“And hanging on the wall was a shield that belonged to a guy named Blackdog,” Briley stated as he opened a cupboard.
Opening the underside drawer, he revealed the protect. For practically 100 years, it been the image of the state and its story.
Some Oklahomans shared a big a part of that story.
“I was not born before statehood,” laughs former Governor George Nigh. “But I’m happy I got close to it.”
Oklahoma was solely 20 years previous when Nigh was born.
“I’m so proud of our history and what we’ve done,” stated Nigh, as soon as a historical past instructor himself.
He can also be pleased with those that helped the state stand out.
“You tell me an area,” Nigh stated. “I can almost think of someone from Oklahoma whose made it No. 1.”
“Statehood Day” is a day value celebrating for Briley.
“It has special meaning because this is a special commemoration day in a long evolution,” Briley stated.
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