Books

With more than 200 titles published to date, Oklahoma Hall of Fame Publishing celebrates the accomplishments and contributions of Oklahoma’s people, institutions, and movements, preserving Oklahoma’s history for future generations.

All books are available for purchase at Scissortail Gifts inside the Oklahoma Hall of Fame or online at ScissortailGifts.com. For wholesale orders, please contact us at (405) 523-3202.

Tim Leonard: Son of the Panhandle

Tim Leonard was born in the Oklahoma Panhandle, a unique and open stretch of land. He went on to earn a law degree and serve in the U.S. Navy, including as a military aide at the White House during President Lyndon B. Johnson's administration. Leonard continued his public service as Minority Leader of the Oklahoma State Senate, U.S. Attorney, and federal judge, earning respect for his integrity and perseverance.

The Last Amateur: The Life of Charlie Coe

Charlie Coe was an outstanding golfer whose career was unknown until after his passing. Dr. Stephen M. Prescott wrote a book about Coe's life with the help of his widow and sons, as well as interviews with golfers and friends. The book is titled "The Last Amateur: The Life of Charlie Coe" and is available for readers to enjoy.

Sister Coletta's Legacy Today: Hope and Faith in Fighting Cancer

Cathy Leichter has a long history of writing, including articles for magazines and co-authoring with her late husband about his journey from Nazi-occupied Austria to the United States. Her late husband's journey was an incredible one, and Cathy helped to preserve it. Cathy's writing has been a passion of hers for many years.
Adult

Gore & Owen: Oklahoma's First Two U.S. Senators

Robert L. Owen was a U.S. Senator from Indian Territory who fought for public control of government and against child labor. He is best known for sponsoring the Glass-Owen Federal Reserve Act of 1913, which created the Federal Reserve System. For this, he has been called the "Father of the Federal Reserve".

Throwaway Kids: Reforming Oklahoma's Juvenile Justice System

Steven A. Novick filed a class action lawsuit in 1978 against Lloyd Rader, the head of Oklahoma's welfare agency. The lawsuit alleged horrific and unspeakable treatment of juveniles at six state institutions, including coerced sex acts and rape. The inhumane treatment of children had been ignored by Oklahoma's leaders for years.

The Beaux Arts Ball: The First 75 Years

The Beaux Arts Society was created to support the Oklahoma Art Center, which is now known as the Oklahoma City Museum of Art. Eleanor Kirkpatrick suggested an annual costume ball to raise funds and create publicity for the center. The first ball was held in 1946 and raised $2,480 to fund the construction of a new gallery.

Explosion of Prosperity

Broken Bow Lake is a reservoir located in southeastern Oklahoma. It is part of Beavers Bend State Park and the nearby town of Hochatown. The lake was created in the 1930s by the construction of a dam on Mountain Fork River, and is now a popular destination for fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities.
Adult

They Called Him Coach

Susan Conway's biography captures the spirit, generosity, and faithfulness of her father, Faye O'Dell. O'Dell served his country bravely in World War II and Korea before returning home to become a coach and teacher. Through these roles, he was able to make a lifelong impact on the young lives he mentored.

The Oklahoma State Fair: A History

The Oklahoma State Fair has been providing entertainment and economic benefits to Oklahomans for over 100 years. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the OKC Fairgrounds provided testing and vaccinations, as well as scholarships and resources for teachers. With a commitment to growth and expansion, the OKC Fairgrounds will continue to provide new opportunities for Oklahomans of all ages.

More Than A Store

Goodwill Industries was founded in Boston by Edgar J Helms in 1935. E.K. Gaylord heard about the success of Goodwill and decided to bring it to Oklahoma. This book contains stories of lives transformed through the power of work, as well as vintage photos and inspiring stories.

The Cameron Family & American Fidelity Assurance Co.

The Cameron Family and the Cameron Group of companies began in Oklahoma in 1960. American Fidelity Assurance Company (AFA) is the flagship of the Cameron companies and has been rated A+ (Superior) by A. M. Best since 1982. AFA serves more than 1 million policyholders across 49 states, with a focus on offering a different opinion for customers in the education, public sector, automotive and healthcare industries.

Love Won: The Oklahoma Standard

The bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City in 1995 sparked an outpouring of sympathy and encouragement from around the world. 25 years later, these expressions of kindness still remind us of the good in the world. They serve as a reminder that there is far more good than we sometimes see.

Principles and Perseverance: The Life of Don Nickles

Don Nickles was the youngest Republican ever elected to the U.S. Senate and rose to become the No. 2 position in the Senate. He was respected by opponents due to his pleasant personality and refusal to make political battles personal. After his public service, he formed a successful consulting firm known as The Nickles Group.
Adult

Our Greatest Journalists

The Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame recognizes men and women of diverse backgrounds who have devoted themselves to spreading the word. Its members have had many defining moments in their careers, from the assassination of John F. Kennedy to the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. They embody the pioneering spirit and have been chosen for Oklahoma's highest journalistic honor.
Adult

Looking Back. Thinking Forward. : The Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum

On April 19, 1995, a bomb exploded in Oklahoma City, killing 168 people and changing lives forever. The response to this tragedy became known as the Oklahoma Standard, characterized by courage, compassion, selflessness, and unity. The community chose to memorialize the losses, lessons, and hope that arose from the chaos.

OCU Law: Come to Learn. Learn to Lead.

Oklahoma City School of Law has been a vital part of the city's history and development, and its new home is the historic Oklahoma City High School building. Designed by Solomon Andrew Layton, the building has served many purposes over the years, and now it is home to the School of Law, providing students with access to the latest technology and resources. The School of Law is helping to breathe new life into the city's core and preparing the leaders of tomorrow.
Adult

Game Changer Oklahoma State Univeristy

Oklahoma State University made a major commitment to upgrade its athletic facilities from 1995 to 2009. Gary Sparks, alumni and lead architect, managed the project and ensured that the goals of meeting fan demand, recruiting advantages, and providing resources to student athletes were met. On September 5, 2009, the Cowboys gave the newly-renovated stadium its first win, proving that the project was worth every penny.

Oklahoma Adjusts to War: 1942—The Critical Year

World War II had a significant impact on Oklahoma, requiring citizens to make sacrifices and adjustments to their everyday lives. These included transforming fur garments into jackets, donating meat fats and rubber items for military supplies, and regrooving old phonograph records for servicemen. This book recounts the story of how Oklahoma civilians faced the challenges of 1942 and helped defeat the enemies.
Children

Will Rogers: Our American Legend

Will Rogers was an Oklahoma native with a love for people and adventure. He was a multi-talented performer, journalist, and aviation pioneer, and his folksy persona was admired by the common man and presidents alike. This children's book tells the story of his life and how his wit and wisdom led to a lifetime of adventure.
Adult

The Path I Chose

Jasmine Moran had to grow up quickly during World War II to care for her sister. She eventually made her way to Oklahoma, where she and her husband Melvin founded the Jasmine Moran Children's Museum and worked as animal rights activists. Her story shows that tough beginnings can inspire resilience and good works.

They Said It Couldn't Be Done

Robert L. Allen had strong Scottish roots and a pioneering spirit, which he used to transform the Oklahoma Educational Television Authority. He championed original programming and developed partnerships with industry leaders to leverage resources for the public good. He was an entrepreneur who sought dividends for the public good, and the OETA Foundation flourished during his tenure.
Adult

Practice Unleashing the Power of Faith

Throughout history, God has used stories of ordinary and extraordinary people to show His power and purpose. Jane Jayroe gathered the stories of men and women from Oklahoma to share their faith journeys and strengthen our own. It's not about spiritual perfection, but about authentic insight into personal faith journeys.

Love's: Fifty Five Years of A Family Enterprise

Tom and Judy Love opened their first store in 1964 with little money and a growing family to support. Over the years, Love's Travel Stops & Country Stores has grown to become the fastest growing chain of fueling stations in the nation. The company has been family owned and operated for 55 years, and continues to grow and innovate with a unified vision.

Angie Debo: Daughter of the Prairie, I Am Oklahoma Children's Series

Angie Debo was a prolific writer and historian who wrote about the history of Oklahoma, her hometown of Marshall, and American Indians. She was a leading scholar of American Indian history and wrote nine books in total, including her last book, Geronimo, which she finished at the age of 85. She received Oklahoma's highest honor, induction into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, in 1950.
Adult

Don't Never Be Afraid of Your Horses

Mike Larsen was raised by people who loved and protected him, but also allowed him to experience life's struggles. His mantra, "Don't Never Be Afraid of Your Horses", is the title of a collection of stories written in his own words. The book is a celebration of triumph and lessons learned, with Larsen's wit and wisdom sprinkled throughout.

Restoring Order and Giving Hope

The Oklahoma National Guard responded to the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Their dedication, bravery, and resilience saved and comforted thousands of New Orleans' residents. This book is a tribute to the men and women who left their jobs and families to help their neighbors in Louisiana.

Red Dirt Baseball First Decades 2nd Edition

Professional baseball arrived in the Twin Territories in 1904, with teams from 28 Oklahoma cities and towns playing in 11 different leagues. Red Dirt Baseball: The First Decades tells the story of these leagues and the ball clubs from Altus to Vinita, along with hundreds of photos. Dozens of Major Leaguers played in the Sooner State during this time.
Adult
No items found.

Oklahoma's Brown Decision Test

In January 1957, the narrator and their family and friends went to the federal district courthouse in Oklahoma City to try to change the course of history. This was in response to the school officials in Earlsboro refusing to allow other schools' sports teams on the Earlsboro school campus because some of their players were black. The narrator's experience that day would change their life forever.
Children

Dust Storm

During the 1930s, a period of severe drought and sandstorms known as the Dust Bowl struck the Southwest and central plains, particularly Oklahoma. Clara is an eleven-year-old girl living on an Oklahoma farm during this time, who is crippled from polio. When her parents are in town, a ferocious dust storm strikes the family farm and Clara must work fast to save Billy, the farm animals, and herself from peril.
Adult

Excellence on the Hill

Baptist Hospital opened on Easter Sunday in 1959 and quickly operated at near capacity. It has since grown to become Integris Baptist Medical Center, a leading medical care facility with 544 beds and the latest technology. The story of BMC's first half century is about the people whose vision and perseverance allowed it to become a great service institution.

Making Things Better: Wes Watkins’ Legacy of Leadership

Wes Watkins was a common man who overcame personal insecurities and a speech impediment to become a powerful leader. He fought against the odds and used unexpected weapons to make a difference. His life story is a testament to the coming of age of an awkward and backward state, and the power of words kept sanctified.

Red Dirt Baseball Boom and Bust

Red Dirt Baseball–Boom and Bust is a book that tells the story of the five leagues and 24 teams that existed in Oklahoma between 1920 and 1942. It includes hundreds of photos of towns, teams, and players, as well as information about the many Major Leaguers who played in the Sooner State during this time. This book provides an interesting look into the history of baseball in Oklahoma during the World Wars.

More Than a Coach: Remembering the Life of Ray Vaughn

Raymond Lawson Vaughn was an educator and coach who had a lifelong commitment to excellence and achievement. He influenced thousands of athletes, two of whom represented their country in the International Summer Olympic Games. His devotion to his Christian faith and those he came in contact with is evidenced through their memories of his dedication.

Dr. Jordan Tang, Think. . .Create. . .Discover, I Am Oklahoma Children's Series

Dr. Jordan Tang is a world-renowned medical research scientist who has been at Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation for over 50 years. He is also a talented artist and musician, and makes time to speak to students all over the world to inspire a new generation of young scientists. In 2008, he was honored by the Oklahoma Hall of Fame for his work.

Will Rogers : Oklahoma's Favorite Son, I Am Oklahoma Children's Series

Will Rogers was a shy and humble man from Oologah, Oklahoma who was renowned for his lariat skills. He was known for his performances which included humorous jokes about world politics and government leaders. His audiences loved his unique style of entertainment.
Children

If the Fence Could Talk

On April 19, 1995, a bombing in Oklahoma City killed 168 people and injured hundreds more. A fence was erected around two city blocks to protect the site during the rescue and recovery efforts. This event changed Oklahoma City forever.
Children

Leona Mitchell: Opera Star, I Am Oklahoma Children's Series

Leona Mitchell was a regular girl from Enid, Oklahoma, who began singing in the church choir at the age of 4. She was teased by her brothers for her singing, but she always believed she was a good singer. By the age of 14, she was directing the choir.

Red Dirt Baseball Post War Year

Red Dirt Baseball: The Post-War Years is a book that tells the story of the four leagues and fifteen teams that existed in Oklahoma between 1946 and 1961. It includes hundreds of photos of towns, teams, and players, many of whom went on to become Major Leaguers. The book provides an interesting look into the history of baseball in the Sooner State.

On God's Polishing Wheel

Kurt Leichter was born in Vienna, Austria to a Jewish-Protestant family. His family was forced to separate due to the Third Reich, and his father and grandfather secured a family in America to take him in. This is just one of the millions of stories of this horrific period in world history.

Oklahoma's 100 Greatest Athletes

Oklahomans have a long history of success in sports, beginning with Jim Thorpe's domination of the 1912 Olympic Games. After statehood, Oklahoma produced national stars in baseball, football, and basketball, and Oklahoma A & M was the first college to win back-to-back NCAA basketball championships. In the last half of the twentieth century, Oklahomans have won world and Olympic championships in a variety of sports, including wrestling, gymnastics, softball, and rodeo.
Children

Te Ata: Oklahoma Cultural Treasure, I Am Oklahoma Children's Series

Te Ata was concerned that the traditions of Native Americans would be forgotten, so she used her acting talent to show the beauty and wisdom of their cultures. She helped to change attitudes towards Native Americans and was honored by Oklahoma with induction into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame and being named the first Oklahoma Cultural Treasure.
Children

Bill Wallace: Author of Adventure and Animal Stories, I Am Oklahoma Children's Series

Bill Wallace was an award-winning author of children's books known worldwide for his adventurous stories. He wrote a total of 38 books, 7 of which were co-written with his wife Carol. He was an entertaining speaker who tried to answer every letter he received from his fans.

Barney Kessel: A Jazz Legend

Barney Kessel was a renowned jazz guitarist known for his knowledge of chords and inversions. He played with many prominent jazz groups and was a "first call" guitarist for studio, film, and television recording sessions. Kessel was also rated the No. 1 guitarist in Esquire, Down Beat, and Playboy magazine polls between 1947 and 1960.
Children
No items found.

What Would You Do If A Kangaroo

LaDonna Kramer Meinders has been writing since 2nd grade and hopes her collection of poems will inspire children to read more. She believes that once children experience the joy of reading, they will discover a life-long treasure. Her collection of poems can be read by anyone, alone or with a friend.

Piavinnia

Ann Guerrier Pratt Shadlow was born to a union of two half-breed Cheyenne, descended from English and French ancestry. Her grandparents were William Bent of Bent's Fort and William Guerrier, a trapper and trader at Bent's Fort. She was born in the tepee of her grandmother Julia Bent Guerrier, daughter of Cheyenne Owl Woman and William Bent.
Adult
No items found.

Port Robertson book

Port Robertson was a head coach and freshman football coach at the University of Oklahoma, and also served his country in WWII. He is most remembered for his work as an academic counselor to male athletes, helping them stay eligible and graduate. He was beloved by the athletes for his dedication to their success.
Adult
No items found.

Nazih Zuhdi: Private Papers and Personal Portraits

This book is an invitation to explore the landscape of human achievement, which is shaped by the toil of many people. It focuses on the work of Nazih Zuhdi, who has left a trail of peaks that redefine the terrain of our lives. His work has birthed a channel of hope, joy and continuance of life for multitudes.
Adult
No items found.

Oklahoma: A Legacy of Virtues and Values, Oklahoma Business Ethics Consortium Special

This book is about the legacy of virtues and values of Oklahoma's business ethics.

Eight Seasons of the Herefords

Ada has a short but rich history in professional baseball, with a fascinating human and social legacy. Eight Seasons of the Herefords-Red Dirt Baseball in Ada is an expansion of a chapter from the Red Dirt Baseball series, featuring photos and vignettes on owners, managers, and players. Most of the photos in the book appear publicly for the first time.
Adult

The Impossible Dream

Melvin Moran was moved by a divine experience to create the Jasmine Moran Children's Museum. Despite many obstacles, the museum became a reality with the help of divine intervention and hard work. Executive Director Marci Donaho remarked that many times things shouldn't have happened, but did, making the museum a miracle.

Red Dirt Baseball: The First Decades 1904 - 1919

Professional baseball arrived in the Twin Territories in 1904. Between 1904 and 1919, 28 Oklahoma cities and towns fielded teams in 11 different leagues. This book tells the story of those leagues and the hundreds of players, teams, and towns involved.
Adult

Proudly Protecting Oklahoma: The 75th Anniversary of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol

The need for a state police force in Oklahoma became evident in the 1930s due to an increase in traffic injuries and fatalities. In 1937, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol was created with a few dedicated troopers and little training. Now, the OHP is one of the most modern state police agencies in the nation, using the latest in technology to protect and serve the citizens of Oklahoma.
Adult

Oklahoma: How We Got the Best State Song

Oklahoma has had an official state song since 1953, when a McAlester legislator named George Nigh passed a bill to make "Oklahoma" the official state song. Before 1953, Oklahoma had both an unofficial and an official state anthem. This book tells the story of two early songs that were sung with pride by thousands of Oklahomans and the process of making "Oklahoma" the official state song.
Adult

Getting Grilled by Wade Christensen: The First Gentleman of the State of Oklahoma

Wade Christensen, the First Gentleman of Oklahoma, is a multi-talented individual with a strong entrepreneurial background. He excels in music, sports, community involvement, and various business ventures. This book presents his favorite grilling recipes, along with those of Governor Fallin and their families, reflecting their culinary preferences and traditions.

Spring Will Come: The Life of Clem McSpadden

Clem McSpadden was a powerful state senator, congressman, and lobbyist who dedicated himself to his constituents. He was also the nation's most recognized voice of rodeo, making friends everywhere he went. When he passed away, Oklahoma and the nation lost a shining example of a great man.

More Than A Championship

Oklahoma State University's 2011 season was a record-breaking success, led by a National Coach of the Year. The team's connection with a young fan and the grief of losing a loved one during the season provided the greatest reward. More Than A Championship celebrates the successes and failures of OSU's greatest season ever.
Adult

The Oklahoma City Golf and Country Club: The First Century

Oklahoma City Golf & Country Club has been a focal point of the community and a home to its leaders. The Club has enjoyed great success due to its dedicated and loyal staff and membership. The founders would be proud to see how their dream has lived on and the Club has become preeminent among its peers.

Gentleman Jurist

Judge Thompson is a highly respected federal judge and public servant who is known for his commitment to the Constitution and the rule of law. He is renowned for his even-tempered and courteous treatment of all those who appear before him. This is why the title of his biography is aptly named "Gentleman Jurist".

Territorians to Boomers

Professional baseball in Ardmore is divided into two eras: 1904-1926 and 1947-1961. The first era is covered in the book "From Territorians to Boomers", and the second in "Indians, Cardinals and Rosebuds". The Rosebuds returned to Ardmore in 1961 after a fifty-seven year absence.
Adult

ODOT100

Commemorating 100 years of transportation history in the state, ODOT has assembled a coffee table book tracing the history of the department.

Indians, Cardinals & Rosebuds

Professional baseball in Ardmore is divided into two eras: 1904-1926 and 1947-1961. The first era is covered in the book "From Territorians to Boomers", and the second in "Indians, Cardinals and Rosebuds". The Rosebuds returned to Ardmore in 1961 after a fifty-seven year absence.
Adult
No items found.

Born to Serve Honorably

Dale Cook lived a life full of adventure, from transporting a block of ice at age five to serving as a federal judge. His sense of integrity, duty, honor, and love of country guided his approach to life's challenges. His storytelling, sprinkled with humor and joy, taught life lessons and invited others to share in his experiences.
Adult
No items found.

Unlikely Warrior - A Small Town Boy's View of World War II

Robert Lovell's story is a typical one of the Greatest Generation in America's history. It is told in frank and innocent details, providing more insight than a history book. The story begins and ends in the same small Oklahoma town.

Voice of Bedlam

Bob Barry was chosen as the radio voice of the University of Oklahoma Sooners in 1961 and went on to become the play-by-play announcer for football and basketball at OU for 31 years. He was named Sportscaster of the Year in Oklahoma a record 15 times and was a member of the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame. He called every Bedlam football game between the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University for a half century.
Adult

Will Rogers American Wordsmith

Will Rogers was a famous celebrity in the 1920s and 1930s, known for his cowboy, comedian, and journalist roles. He wrote a syndicated column called WILL ROGERS SAYS, which was read by one third of the nation's people. His articles often poked fun at big business, the wealthy, and politicians.

Pride of the Wichitas

Cameron was one of six agricultural high schools created in 1908 and became a junior college in 1927. During World War II, students linked school pride, patriotism, and Christianity into a single label of being "Cameronistic". In the late 1960s, Cameron began transitioning into a four year university and began granting four-year degrees in 1970.

Hardwood Heros: Great Oklahoma basketball Coaches

Oklahoma has had a great impact on the art and science of coaching basketball. Pioneers such as Henry Iba and Bertha Teague have influenced the way the game is played around the world. No other state has produced more coaches who led the United States basketball team to gold medals in the Olympic Games.

Baseball in the Cross Timbers

Baseball in the Cross Timbers is a book that reintroduces readers to the Oklahoma north Texas teams of the 1940s and 1950s. The book includes 14 chapters with over 300 photos and illustrations, many of which have never been published before. The Sooner State League operated for 11 seasons between 1947 and 1957, and more than 3,000 players participated in the league.
Children

Fearless Flight

Wiley Post was an aviation risk taker and a renowned and innovative pilot. He set records and made discoveries and inventions that remain unparalleled in the world of aviation. Bob Burke wrote an award-winning biography about Post, which was adapted for young readers, allowing them to explore his remarkable accomplishments.
Adult

Henry J Freede: Master of Orthopedic Surgery and Oil

Henry J Freede was a master of medical orthopedic surgery. He was a highly respected doctor and surgeon, and was known for his expertise in the field. He was a pioneer in the field of orthopedic surgery, and his work has had a lasting impact on the medical profession.
Adult
No items found.

Struggles in a New State

In 1910, two brothers from Oklahoma rode horses to New York City to meet President Theodore Roosevelt. Their journey gained national attention and contrasted with the new means of transportation being developed in Oklahoma. The boys' journey provides a remarkable background for contemporary struggles and the start of revolutionary transportation advances.
Adult

Special Counsel: The Life of DeVier Pierson

DeVier Pierson is a native Oklahoman who has had a remarkable legal career spanning more than half a century. He has seen firsthand the effects of the Great Depression, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He has spent the past 40 years in Washington, D.C., in the practice of law, and has interesting tales to tell about his own life and career.

OU College of Law: A Centennial History

The University of Oklahoma College of Law began in 1909 and has since grown to include a new Law Center building and a major $19 million expansion. Monnet Hall remains one of the most distinctive buildings on the OU campus. OU Law has trained lawyers, public servants, and citizens who have made a huge difference in the success of Oklahoma and the nation.
Adult

Oklahoma Health Center A History

The Oklahoma Health Center is a world-class research and health care complex located in Oklahoma City. It has been the result of over $3 billion in capital investment and has transformed an area of blighted neighborhoods and aging public buildings. The future of the Oklahoma Health Center is unlimited, building on the work of many who have changed the face of scientific research, medical training, and health care in Oklahoma.
Adult

Moving Heaven and Earth

Melvin Moran was born in 1930 and lived through many economic highs and lows, serving in the US Air Force and making friends with politicians and history makers. He faced a crisis in Jerusalem, but ultimately contributed to Oklahoma's children with the Jasmine Moran Children's Museum. This museum will have an impact far beyond Moran's lifetime.
Adult
No items found.

Bounty of Nature

This book explores the exciting fur trading history of Oklahoma in the seventeenth century. It showcases the lure of fur-bearing animals, the exchanges with Native Americans, and the challenges faced by fur traders. It offers a unique glimpse into Oklahoma's bold past.
Adult

Words of Destiny: Writings that Shaped Oklahoma

Words of Destiny tells the story of Oklahoma from its founding to the present day. It is a story of official writings, songs, books, events, and places, as well as the people who made the state what it is today. Oklahoma's story is one of American Indians, pioneer settlers, and brave men and women who carved out a new home in the unknown land.

Early Visitors to Oklahoma

Early visitors to the future Oklahoma came and went, with some notable figures like Francisco Vasquez de Coronado exploring the area once and never returning. Others passed through due to employment or in search of better land routes. Missionaries, military scouts, and land-seeking farmers also arrived, leaving their impressions of the future Sooner State. Their stories, recorded in diaries and letters, provide a glimpse into Oklahoma's pre-statehood era.
Adult
No items found.

Bartlesville Means Business

Hillcrest Country Club is a vital civic organization that has been instrumental in building Bartlesville. The club membership is broad-based and more interested in business acumen than social conventions. It has been a means of building social capital in a city that is remarkable in its exploitation of that principle of successful business.
Adult

Beyond Metes & Bounds

John Keating founded Topographic in 1958 to offer surveying and mapping services for oil and gas well drillers in Oklahoma. Today, Topographic is one of the leading surveying companies in the country for the oil and gas industry. Keating's innovative service has made a significant impact on Oklahoma's premier industry.
Adult

Touchdown Club

The Touchdown Club of Oklahoma was formed in 1947 to help improve the success and popularity of University of Oklahoma football. The club provided scholarships and improved facilities, as well as helping to keep a young football coach, Bud Wilkinson, in Norman. The efforts of The Touchdown Club were integral in making OU football a winning tradition in the second half of the twentieth century.
Children

Trial of Standing Bear

Frank Keating's The Trial of Standing Bear tells the story of Ponca Chief Standing Bear and his people's fight for civil rights. It follows their forced removal from the Niobrara River in Nebraska to Indian Territory. The book is illustrated by Oklahoma artist Mike Wimmer and documents the ultimate victory of Standing Bear and his people.

Oklahoma Statesman: The Life of David Boren

David L. Boren has had a major influence on Oklahoma. He has held many positions of trust and excelled in each one. This biography reveals his major and discreet roles in some of the most politically and historically important moments of American history.
Adult
No items found.

Leaning on a Legacy

The Works Progress Administration (WPA) was a work relief program that left a positive impression on Oklahoma, providing jobs and building structures that are still in use today. WPA workers also learned trades and contributed to the cultural growth of the state. This book is a tribute to the thousands of men and women who made the best of a bad economic time and left a lasting legacy in Oklahoma.
Adult

John Steinbeck was Wrong About Oklahoma

Bob Burke's book, The Real Story of the First Century of Oklahoma, tells the true story of the state and its people. It is filled with the names of Okies who have made a significant impact in various fields. John Steinbeck's portrayal of Oklahomans in The Grapes of Wrath was inaccurate and does not reflect the true story of the state.
Adult
No items found.

Jack's 45th

Jack and Leota Neville's experiences during World War II are explored in "Jack's 45th". It follows Jack's journey from Adair, Oklahoma to North Africa, and Leota's experience working at the McDonald Aircraft Plant in Midwest City. The story is a tribute to all of those who sacrificed in the Great War.
Adult
No items found.

Oklahoma Landscapes

Oklahoma has seen many changes in its first century as a state - in people. vision, industry, and purpose. The changes, both persistent and profound, are displayed by "before and after" photographs in this book.

Building Traditions, Educating Generations: UCO

The University of Central Oklahoma has an exciting story to tell, which is documented in the book Building Traditions, Educating Generations. This book includes over thirty vignettes written by UCO students, alumni and staff, as well as an oral history project. The oral history project provides a prism through which to view the collective memory of the institution.

Bob Funk: Doctor of Hope

Bob Funk, who originally wanted to be a preacher, founded Express Personnel Services, which has become the largest franchised, privately-held staffing company in the US. He has put millions of people to work and has been able to fulfill his life's dreams through ranching, public service, business, philanthropy, and preserving the heritage of his adopted State of Oklahoma. Despite his success, he has stayed true to his mission to help others.
Adult
No items found.

Country Lawyer

Cowboy Up

John Smith led the Oklahoma State wrestling squad on a grueling schedule in 2004 in pursuit of their third consecutive national title. Kim D. Parrish was granted unprecedented access to the Cowboy program for an entire season, and wrote an intimate, revealing story of the team's historic effort. Coach Smith's journey from a slight boy from Del City to one of the greatest American athletes of the 20th century is an inspiring story of glory and heartbreak.
Adult

For All Good Sports

The Oklahoma City All Sports Association was founded in 1946 to promote amateur sports in the city. It has since grown to become the largest amateur sports organization in the state, offering a variety of sports and activities for all ages. The organization has been instrumental in the development of amateur sports in Oklahoma City, and continues to be a major force in the community.

Willie of the Valley: The Life of Bill Paul

Bill Paul has achieved success in many areas of his life, from his family's dairy farm to the board room of Phillips Petroleum Company. He is one of only two Oklahomans to ever serve as president of the American Bar Association and is recognized as one of America's premier lawyers. He has given back to his community and state, and has worked to assist the Chickasaw Nation move into the 21st century.

Fighter, Founder Father

Al Snipes came to Oklahoma City in 1946 and has remained there ever since. He has been involved in many aspects of the city, from boxing in the 1940s to the formation of Oklahoma City Community College in the 1970s. His story is one of vision, passion, tenacity, and energy, making a lasting impact on his community and state.
Adult
No items found.

Lifetime Volunteer: Mex Frates

Mex Rodman Frates is a remarkable woman who has made significant contributions to Oklahoma City. This book delves into her leadership qualities, her involvement in service organizations, and her long-standing dedication to philanthropic, cultural, educational, and civic causes.

A History of the University of Tulsa College of Law

This book is about the history of the University of Tulsa College of Law, which started as a small independent school in the 1920s and evolved into a university-related college serving students from all over the US and beyond. The book covers the people who shaped the school, including lawyers, philanthropists, teachers, and scholars, as well as the events that contributed to its development, such as World War II, racial integration, and the rise of information technology. The book is of interest to historians and anyone associated with the University of Tulsa College of Law.

Lee Allan Smith: Oklahoma's Best Friend

Lee Allan Smith was a college student and Air Force officer who was well-known for his special event planning. He was the driving force behind some of Oklahoma's most memorable galas, such as the Stars and Stripes shows, the Diamond Jubilee, and the Oklahoma Centennial celebration. His leadership was essential for the success of these events.
Adult

Mr. Water: Robert S. Kerr Jr.

Robert S. Kerr, Jr. was determined to make his own mark on the history of Oklahoma, and was known as "Mr. Water" for his fight for water development. He believed that Oklahoma's greatest natural asset was water, and sought to ensure every Oklahoman had an adequate water supply and protection from floods. Bob's lifelong quest was to ensure the fair and comprehensive use of Oklahoma's water.
Adult
No items found.

The Mayors of OKC

This book narrates the remarkable civic service of James Norick and his son, Ronald Norick, who collectively dedicated five decades to serving the community of Oklahoma City. Through their love for their hometown and unwavering commitment, these two men exemplify the essence of community service, and this book chronicles their story of integrity and devotion to making Oklahoma City a better place to live.

Simple Truths Hard Cover

On April 19, 1995, the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City killed 168 people. This book provides a factual history of the FBI's investigation, the largest criminal investigation in history. It also dispels the various inaccurate and irresponsible theories that this notorious event spawned.