In a move that promises to safeguard the rich sporting legacy of Oklahoma, the Oklahoma Sports Heritage Museum (OSHM) has agreed to a merger with the Oklahoma History Center (OHC). Though formal agreements have yet to be finalized, this partnership aims to secure the future of Oklahoma’s sports memorabilia and historical artifacts by transitioning from Guthrie to Oklahoma City.
Located at 315 W. Oklahoma, the OSHM has been a cherished institution since its founding in 1993 by Richard Hendricks, Ferguson Jenkins, and Geese Ausbie. The museum officially opened in 1996, following a significant effort by supporters who renovated a 13,000 square foot space in downtown Guthrie. This space, comprising three adjoining buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, became a beacon of Oklahoma’s athletic heritage, recognized by the state legislature as the official sports museum.
Despite its historical significance and dedicated following, the OSHM has faced financial challenges that have jeopardized its operations. Unable to generate sufficient income to sustain its activities, the museum’s board saw the merger with the OHC as a vital step toward ensuring its preservation.
The OHC, whose mission is to collect, preserve, and share the history and culture of Oklahoma and its people, upon agreement will take over ownership of the OSHM, including all its artifacts and archival materials.
The OHC, situated on an 18-acre plot across the street from the Governor’s mansion at 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr. in Oklahoma City, will house these valuable collections. This center provides the necessary space and storage to maintain the memorabilia while making it accessible to the public.
During a May 29 board meeting, the merger was approved by the majority, with board members Jack Herron, Alan Penner, John Vance, Richard Mason, Seve Zable, Damon Devereaux, Bill Blair, Sandy Goff, Tami Boxley, and Richard Hendricks voting in favor. Hugh Plagg cast the sole dissenting vote, while Laverne Dowding, Daniel Calvert, and William Wheeler were absent.
“Once it’s gone, it’s gone,” Plagg told his fellow board members before the vote. “This will be an empty building.”
If formally agreed upon, the transition process is expected to take one to two years. Throughout this period, OSHM members are encouraging continued public support and visitation to the museum.
The OSHM’s journey has been marked by notable milestones and collaborations. In 2008, the museum merged with the Jim Thorpe Association in an effort to expand its scope of promoting Oklahoma’s athletic heritage. However, after five years, both organizations concluded that they would be more effective operating independently.
As the OSHM prepares to transition its collections to the OHC, the community’s role in supporting and celebrating this legacy remains crucial. The merger not only promises to enhance the visibility and preservation of Oklahoma’s sports history but also underscores the collaborative spirit essential to maintaining cultural heritage.
For now, visitors can continue to explore the exhibits at the OSHM’s current location, reflecting on the remarkable achievements of Oklahoma’s athletes. The proposed merger with the OHC would represent a new chapter, ensuring that the stories and memorabilia cherished by so many will endure in a secure and prominent setting.
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