I stumbled upon a striking poster for the Oklahoma Semi-Centennial Expo. The boy in a spaceman outfit caught my eye. This event celebrated 50 years of Oklahoma’s statehood in 1957. It showcased the state’s progress and innovation. Visitors enjoyed exhibits on agriculture, technology, and culture. The expo aimed to unite communities and highlight Oklahoma’s achievements.
If you’re curious about Oklahoma’s rich history, this expo is a great starting point. It reflects the spirit of exploration and pride in the state’s journey.
50 Years of Oklahoma Statehood: A Grand Event!
In 1957, Oklahomans celebrated their fiftieth anniversary of statehood with great enthusiasm. This was a big change from their quiet observance of the twenty-fifth anniversary during the Great Depression. The earlier celebration in 1932 included a reenactment of a mock wedding ceremony in Oklahoma City, but it was limited to just a week of events.
The Oklahoma Semi-Centennial celebration ran from April 22 to November 16, 1957. These dates were significant: April 22 marked the first land run in Oklahoma in 1889, and November 16 was the day Oklahoma became a state in 1907. Governor Raymond Gary appointed Lou S. Allard to lead the Oklahoma Semi-Centennial Commission in 1955. The state was divided into twelve regions, each with a leader to organize local events. The goal was to attract visitors to Oklahoma, using catchy slogans like “Visit Oklahoma First” and “From Teepees to Towers.”
The festivities kicked off on April 22, 1957, in Guthrie with a lively parade. A notable highlight was the dedication of the “Arrows to Atoms” tower at the state fairgrounds. Actor Joel McCrea, known for his role in The Oklahoman, joined the celebrations. The Gilcrease Museum in Tulsa also opened a special exhibition that day.
One of the main attractions was the Semi-Centennial Exposition, held from June 14 to July 7, 1957. The fairgrounds in Oklahoma City were open 24 hours a day, welcoming visitors for just ninety cents for adults and fifty cents for children. A replica of an early oil-boom town, called Boom Town, was built, featuring a general store, blacksmith shop, and wooden oil derricks. Inside the “House That Oil Built,” visitors learned about the petroleum industry.
The exposition also included a Teen Town, international exhibits, and a women’s fashion center. Displays from countries like the Soviet Union, India, and Japan attracted attention. Famous performers, including the Ziegfeld Follies and Mickey Rooney, entertained the crowds. A powwow with over a thousand American Indians featured a buffalo barbecue and traditional games.
Television and radio programs broadcasted live from the fairgrounds, including NBC’s Today show. A time capsule was buried, containing letters from the governor and city officials, to be opened during Oklahoma’s centennial celebration in 2007. This capsule was unearthed on August 14, 2006, revealing treasures like newspaper clippings and photographs.
The celebration also featured a commemorative three-cent postage stamp and an exhibition at the Library of Congress. Sculptor Laura Gardin Fraser created a bronze medallion for the occasion. A new song, “I’ll See You in Oklahoma,” was released, and the Oklahoma Almanac published a special edition. Thousands of students participated in the “Onward Oklahoma” essay contest.
The grand finale of the semicentennial celebrations took place on November 16, 1957, with a nationally televised football game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Governor Gary declared it “University of Oklahoma Day.” Unfortunately, the Sooners lost the game 7-0, which put a damper on the festivities.
In summary, the Oklahoma Semi-Centennial was a vibrant celebration of the state’s history and achievements. It brought together communities and showcased Oklahoma’s spirit of resilience and pride. The events not only honored the past but also looked forward to a bright future for the state.
