Amplified Oklahoma

In this episode, we listen to stories of women who broke barriers and paved the way for others in STEM fields. View the show notes here. Pamgaea by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4193-pamgaea License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Song Credits: Umbrella Pants by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4559-umbrella-pants License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Groove Grove by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3831-groove-grove License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Rainbows by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4261-rainbows License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Easy Lemon by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3697-easy-lemon License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we share stories of long journeys and new sights. We'll hear stories of travel due to war, education, or better opportunities, and be reminded of the big world that's still out there during the COVID-19 pandemic. View the show notes here. Song Credits: Tranquility by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4543-tranquility License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Deliberate Thought by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3635-deliberate-thought License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Daybreak by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3621-daybreak License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

This month on Amplified Oklahoma, we're highlighting the legacy of Booker T. Washington School and its impact on the African American community in Stillwater, Oklahoma. View the show notes here. Song Credits: Bossa Antigua by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3454-bossa-antigua License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Study And Relax by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5764-study-and-relax License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Acid Trumpet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3340-acid-trumpet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we're exploring the 1957 anthrax outbreak in Oklahoma, which affected thousands of animals and even spread to humans in and around the state. View the show notes here. Song Credits: Relaxing Piano Music by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4273-relaxing-piano-music License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode, we share stories of LGBTQ+ Oklahomans who found love in the state and beyond. View the show notes here.

This episode is all about love as we explore the secret to a long and lasting marriage by highlighting three couples married for over 70 years. View the show notes here.

In this episode, we share the stories of LGBT+ Oklahomans and their experiences in the AIDS epidemic. View the show notes here.

In this episode, we explore the art and life of Choctaw-Chickasaw artist Norma Howard and the importance of documenting Native American art across the state of Oklahoma. View the show notes here.

In this episode, we explore the legacy of Doel and Martha Reed on campus and in the worlds of southwestern art and fashion. View the show notes here.

This month, we're exploring Oklahoma State University's involvement in the political activism of the 1960s by featuring excerpts from members of the Friday Afternoon Tea and Glee Society, a politically active student organization during the 1960s. View the show notes here.

In this episode, we highlighting the bravery, perseverance, and actions of OSU alumni, faculty, and staff and the moments that shaped their lives, worldviews, and communities. View the show notes here.

In this episode, we explore the many ways women supported the war effort during World War II. View the show notes here.

This month, we're looking at the legacy of "Oklahoma's Greatest Historian" Dr. Angie Debo and her incredible career as an author, historian, and pioneering female scholar. View the show notes here.

In this episode, we're talking about an Emperor, a President, and the relationship between OSU and Ethiopia's first university. View the show notes here.

This month, we're exploring the "normal" everyday lives of people who persevered in Oklahoma during the Dust Bowl. There are many ideas about what the Dust Bowl was like in popular culture. Black blizzards, starvation, and human displacement, all of these are true. But these ideas have commonly over sensationalized the human experience of the Dust Bowl. While it was one of the greatest ecological mistakes in American history, a lack of social history prevents us from understanding the way in which people endured and succeeded during that time. This month on Amplified Oklahoma, we're exploring the everyday lives of people who persevered in Oklahoma during the Dust Bowl. We'll be examining their ideas of normalcy through their memories of dust, farmwork, and food in an effort to better understand how their lives were impacted by the Dust Bowl. We'll also hear from Dr. Mary Larson, Associate Dean at the OSU Edmon Low Library, as she discusses how time impacts the way people remember the Dust Bowl. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/amplified-oklahoma/episode-36-normalcy-in-the-dust-bowl

Oklahoma State University is more likely to be known for football than drag queens, but for years there's been an annual event that brings a variety of communities together: Dragonfly. This month, we're exploring the history of Dragonfly, a student-run drag show at OSU since 2003. We'll listen to interviews with students and former advisors from the OSU Diverse Sexuality and Gender Oral History Project discuss how the show got started and how it came to be so popular among students both inside and outside of the LGBT community. We'll also learn how the LGBT student experience has changed on campus from the early years of Dragonfly to now. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/amplified-oklahoma/episode-35-dragonfly

This month on Amplified Oklahoma, we're highlighting the stories of trailblazing women of color that attended Oklahoma State University. We'll listen to Nancy Randolph Davis, the first African-American student enrolled at OSU, and Patrice Latimer, the first African-American President of the Student Government Association, share their experiences on campus and describe the impact of Ada Lois Sipuel's landmark case that integrated higher education in Oklahoma. Later, we'll talk to Kayla Dunn and Kaitlyn Kirksey, two students of color currently campaigning for SGA President, about the legacy these women who came before them left on campus. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/amplified-oklahoma/episode-34-osu-trailblazers

Happy New Year, Oklahoma! How many New Years have you celebrated so far? Ten? Twenty? fifty? Maybe even a hundred? That's certainly the case for our narrators in this episode. This month, we're highlighting the lives of several centenarians from our Oklahoma 100 Year Life Oral History Project. They'll be sharing their secrets to success and longevity to help you with your New Year's resolutions. We'll also talk to Dr. Alex Bishop, professor of gerontology here at OSU, about what we can learn from these narrators. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/amplified-oklahoma/episode-33-advice-from-centenarians/

What are the holidays like if you live on a farm? Beyond what your favorite Christmas movies might suggest, living on the farm during the holiday season can be difficult work. In this episode of Amplified Oklahoma, we're exploring the traditions and hard work that make up the holiday season on the farm. We'll be listening to interview excerpts from our Oklahoma Centennial Farm Families Oral History Project. Also, we'll speak with Dr. Tamara Mix, professor of rural sociology here at OSU, to help us understand what the holiday experience is like for farm families. So, snuggle up by the fire with some warm milk and cookies and prepare for a great episode. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/amplified-oklahoma/episode-32-christmas-on-the-farm

Veterans Day was this past Sunday, and Amplified Oklahoma is observing the holiday by chronicling women's military service and highlighting the service of one woman in particular. This month, we'll be focusing on Rita Aragon of the Oklahoma Air National Guard, Oklahoma's first female Brigadier General and later Major General. Our expert, Dr. Jennifer Murray, a military historian at Oklahoma State University, will help us relate her story to the broader picture of women's military experiences. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/amplified-oklahoma/episode-31-women-in-the-military If you liked this episode, here's a link to a hilarious and thrilling interview with Rita Aragon: https://youtu.be/SmdkNy20NiA

Oklahoma State University's Homecoming is known across the country for its huge decorations and grand displays of orange spirit. For almost a 100 years now, OSU has been putting on a great Homecoming with the guidance of the OSU Alumni Association and this tradition will carry on for years to come. From the Harvest Carnival to Walkaround and even the Homecoming Parade, there are many incredible events and friendly competitions that take place during the week of Homecoming. Since the 98th Homecoming Celebration is coming up soon, we are taking a look back at some of the memories and experiences of alumni from their Homecoming years. This month, we'll hear excerpts from former students about some of the things they did during their Homecomings and how much they enjoy coming back every year to this celebration. Then, we talk with Melisa Parkerson, Director of Student Programs for the OSU Alumni Association, about the planning of Homecoming and her own perspective on this great tradition. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/amplified-oklahoma/episode-30-homecoming

Oklahoma State University is well-known for many things and our football program is one of them. The OSU football team has been playing since 1900 and has gone through many changes and challenges. From some of our first successful seasons during World War II to integrating black athletes on campus and even to our rivalry with OU, our university and its football program have shown great progress over the years. This month on Amplified Oklahoma, we are looking at the history of the OSU football program and why there is such an electric and exciting atmosphere surrounding the team. We'll hear interview excerpts from the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program's archives from former players and students alike, who all feel connected to the OSU Cowboys. Later, Clint Chelf, a former OSU quarterback, joins us to talk about his own perspective on the program as a recent player and as a loyal fan. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/amplified-oklahoma/episode-29-osu-football

Freshman year is many people's first taste of independence, making it both an exciting and terrifying experience. There have always been new students at Oklahoma State University who have felt this way as they try to navigate campus for the first time. Trying to make new friends and not stick out too much on campus are and always will be a little bit difficult. However, some experiences and traditions for freshmen have changed over the years, like the freshman beanie and Howdy Week, which really shaped the first year OSU experience for many people. This month on Amplified Oklahoma, we're headed back to freshman year and looking at the good, the bad, the shared, and the unique experiences of freshmen at OSU. We'll hear interview excerpts from the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program's archives about the various realities of freshman year for many OSU alumni. Then, we'll talk with Palvih Bhana, the assistant director of the office of New Student Orientation and Enrollment, about the office's role in helping incoming freshmen prepare for their first year experiences. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-28-freshman-year

Hitchhiking was a very popular practice for many years in the United States. During the Depression and early war years, many people hitchhiked because it was cheap and seen as patriotic. There was a resurgence of this popularity in the '60s and '70s among the free-thinking generation because of the freedom it offered those who wanted to travel. But these days, it seems like there are at least a million reasons why you shouldn't get into a car with a stranger. However, you can ask just about any person who was an active traveler in the last century and they will tell you they hitchhiked at some point. Oklahoma State University and its students were no exception to this trend. Many alumni of Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College, now OSU, used hitchhiking as a method of getting around. This month on Amplified Oklahoma, we're hitching a ride back in time to look at the practice of hitchhiking through the eyes of some former students. We'll hear interview excerpts from the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program's archives from alumni who used to hitchhike to and from campus. Later, Steve Spradling, the director of OSU's Parking and Transportation Services, joins us to talk about how students get around campus today and the role this department plays in the Stillwater community. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-27-hitchin-a-ride

In the midst of the Great Depression, Oklahoma was hit with an intense environmental transformation known today as the Dust Bowl. A series of dust storms caused by risky agricultural practices and severe drought, the Dust Bowl impacted the lives of thousands living in the plains region. However, many questions about daily life in this time period still go unanswered. For example, how did people even keep the dust out of their homes? How were everyday tasks like laundry and food preparation adapted to withstand the intense conditions? In this episode, we'll explore the overlooked impact of the Dust Bowl by listening to several interview excerpts from the Dust, Drought, and Dreams Gone Dry Oral History Project. Also, Dr. Anna Zeide from the Oklahoma State University Department of History joins us to provide insight on how everyday habits, particularly foodways, changed during this time. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-26-living-with-the-dust-bowl

In the 1960s and 70s, the Glass House Restaurant was a must-go-to attraction in Oklahoma. Known for its unique architecture, fantastic food, and even better service, the Glass House was the first restaurant to be built over a U.S. public highway. Attached to this arched building were two full-service gas stations for travelers on both sides of the road. This month on Amplified Oklahoma, we're looking at the legacy of this iconic stop on Interstate 44 through interviews from the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program's archives. Later, we talk with Kathleen Duchamp, Director of the Eastern Trails Museum in Craig County, about the history of the Glass House and its impact on the community of Vinita, Oklahoma. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-25-glass-house-restaurant

For almost 80 years, Cordell Hall served Oklahoma State University, first as a residence hall, and later as office space for the campus. In early 2018, Cordell Hall was demolished, leaving behind memories from those who called the building home. This month on Amplified Oklahoma, we're looking back on life in Cordell and the impact it had on its residents. From the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program's archives, we'll hear interview excerpts from several alums who lived in Cordell during their time at OSU. Later, the OSU Library's Head of Archives, David Peters, joins us to talk more about the building's history and lasting legacy. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes:

In Choctaw County, Oklahoma, you'll find the town of Hugo. Since the 1940s, Hugo has served as the winter quarters for several tent circuses that continue to travel from town to town, amazing children and adults alike. Under the big top, performers showcase their artistry and spend hours practicing and honing their craft. This month on Amplified Oklahoma, we're learning more about some of the artists who bring the circus to life. From the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program's archives, we'll listen to interview excerpts with performers Lucy Loyal, Dolly Pirtle, and Mary Rawls. Also joining us are two Oklahoma State University faculty members, Lee Brasuell and Henry Segerman, who created a new circus apparatus as part of their research. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-23-circus-performers

This month, we're looking back on the history of Attucks School in Craig County. Built in 1916, Attucks served African American students in Vinita, a city located in northeastern Oklahoma, through the mid-1950s. Deeply rooted in the African American community, the school and its teachers provided students and their families with support in many different ways. Even today, its impact can be seen in the memories of alumni near and far, with many returning for the school's biennial reunions. In this episode, we'll hear excerpts from the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program's archives featuring Attucks alums Arlene Kirkendoll, Charles Kirkendoll, Lois Hunt West, Robert Ramsey Jr, Okla Hicks, and Mary Crawford. Later, we'll sit down with Kathleen Duchamp, the director of the Eastern Trails Museum in Vinita to learn more about the history and importance of Attucks School. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-22-attucks-school

This month on Amplified Oklahoma, we're examining the influence of Cheyenne artist Dick West on the lives of two women who began their careers at a time when there was rarely a recognized professional Native woman artist. From the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program's archives, we'll hear interview excerpts from Sharron Ahtone Harjo and Joan Hill, two artists who share Bacone College as their alma mater and who studied under West. Later, we'll sit down with Dick West Jr. to learn more about his father's legacy in the revival of the Bacone College art department through the advancement of Indian artists. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-21-dick-west%E2%80%99s-impact-on-native-art

The Korean War is often referred to as the "Forgotten War" because it came so soon after World War II, involved fewer American troops, and was fought in a much smaller area. While 16 million Americans served in the Second World War, the Korean War included approximately one-third that many, and while World War II involved a worldwide theater, the Korean War was contained to the Korean Peninsula. This month on Amplified Oklahoma, we review the long-lasting effects the Korean War had on its soldiers, and consider today's lessons learned from yesterday's war. We'll hear interview excerpts from Bill Gotcher and Gene Slocum from the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program's archives, followed by a discussion with Dr. John Kinder from Oklahoma State University's History Department to learn more about war's effects on US culture and society. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-20-if-only-there-were-a-pill-we-could-give-people

Opened in 1884, Chilocco Indian School was one of the largest federally-funded boarding schools for Native American youth in the country. Located twenty miles north of Ponca City, Oklahoma, the school offered a half academic / half vocational curriculum, focused on assimilating Native students into the dominant culture. Like most boarding schools, Chilocco went through different phases of development, reflecting changes in the federal policy towards Native Americans. These changes were often prompted by the efforts of Native educators, community workers and activists, and shifting attitudes within the larger society. Throughout these shifts, however, the school's status as a National Guard center as well as boarding school made it unique. This month on Amplified Oklahoma, we're focusing on military veterans who attended the school. We'll hear interview excerpts with Wes Studi and Charles LeClair from the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program's archives. Later, former superintendent Jim Baker shares more about his involvement with alumni, especially in preserving the history of the school. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-19-chilocco-military-veterans

Cold weather, football games and pumpkin patches are things to look forward to in October. But most of all, we have Halloween, spooky ghost stories and cemeteries to explore. In this episode of Amplified Oklahoma, we're delving underground in the Oklahoma towns of Hugo and Okeene. We'll hear oral history interview excerpts from Barbara Miller Byrd featuring a unique resting place for circus workers and Anthony Felder shares a local legend. Later, we'll sit down with Dr. Alyson Greiner from the OSU Department of Geography to learn more about necrogeography. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-18-cemeteries

Frank "Pistol Pete" Eaton was a true cowboy, the epitome of the Old West with a colorful past. He also happens to be the man Oklahoma State University's mascot is modeled after. This episode of Amplified Oklahoma is all about Pistol Pete and the students who bring the legend to life. From the oral history archives, we'll hear from two former mascots, Bill F. Smith and Phil Glasgow. Later, OSU Pom Coach and Spirit Coordinator Beki Jackson and current mascot Kyle Foreman share more about what it takes to become Pistol Pete. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: https://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-17-pistol-pete

The Oklahoma State University campus during the 1950s was a very different place than it is today. Hideaway was just getting its start, the Edmon Low library was brand new to the campus skyline, and, strangely enough, an alligator lived in Theta Pond. This episode of Amplified Oklahoma is all about Alligator Sam of Theta Pond. We'll hear three oral history interview excerpts about Sam from Norma Crane, Robin Duncan Robertson, and Richard Dermer. Later, Mike Nelson, Craig Barnes, and Jennifer Sanders from OSU Landscape Services tells us more about the campus landmark. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: http://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-16-sam-the-alligator

While Phi Beta Kappa is known as a prestigious academic honor society throughout the United States, it is relatively new to Oklahoma State University. After several attempts, a chapter was finally installed at OSU in 2013. This episode of Amplified Oklahoma features oral history interview excerpts with OSU faculty members Dr. Perry Gethner and Dr. Robert Miller as they describe the trials and tribulations in the process of establishing the Gamma of Oklahoma chapter at Oklahoma State University. Later, we'll sit down with Dr. Charles Abramson to talk more about OSU's chapter, as well as the resulting oral history project. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: http://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-15-phi-beta-kappa

Women were once heavily outnumbered in the law school classroom. Upon graduation, many faced challenges in securing and maintaining employment. While the legal landscape is much different today, this episode of Amplified Oklahoma looks back on some of the early adversity women faced in the profession. We'll hear oral history interview excerpts from Judge Stephanie Kulp Seymour who serves on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit along with former Oklahoma County District Court Judge Nancy Coats-Ashley. Author and retired lawyer Patsy Trotter also joins us to talk more about the history of Oklahoma women and the law. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: http://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-14-women-in-the-legal-profession

Everybody has their favorite college story to tell at get-togethers and barbeques. Students from Oklahoma State University's Class of 1959 all have one story in common, the tale of Jimbo the bull. In this episode of Amplified Oklahoma, we'll hear two very different memories of Jimbo from the OOHRP's archives, one from Glenn Taylor and the other from Walter Hackney, two animal husbandry majors. Later, Dr. Mary Larson from the OSU Library talks about the influence of memory and experience on oral history. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: http://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-13-a-bull-in-the-elevator

Known to her friends in California as "the Okie Poet," Wilma Elizabeth McDaniel wrote more than 50 books of poetry and stories. So in honor of National Poetry Month, we're going to take a look at her life and work in this episode of Amplified Oklahoma. Listeners will hear oral history interview excerpts from Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz and John Cooper, who shared stories from Wilma's life with OSU's Karen Neurohr. Later, Karen talks about her time working on the project "Wilma Elizabeth McDaniel: Poet and Oklahoma Dust Bowl Emigrant." This episode also includes excerpts from the documentary "Down an Old Road: The Poetic Life of Wilma Elizabeth McDaniel," courtesy of Chris Simon, Sageland Media. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: http://www.library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-12-mcdaniel.

Spring is finally here and in full swing at Oklahoma State University. The grey days of winter are behind us and summer is edging closer and closer. To help inspire everyone to get out there and get active, we've put together a great episode on health. Listeners will hear oral history interview excerpts from Art Bieri, a long time Stillwater Public Schools educator and benefactor of physical education, and Bianca Boyd, a member of the OSU family who has one of the most inspirational health journeys. Later, OSU's Chief Wellness Officer Todd Misener tells us how he's making OSU America's Healthiest Campus. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: http://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-11-health-and-wellness

Nestled in Okfuskee County is Boley, Oklahoma, a quiet town that was once referred to as "the largest and wealthiest exclusive Negro city in the world." This episode of Amplified Oklahoma features the history of Boley and how the town influenced and affected its residents. We'll hear oral history interview excerpts from Henrietta Hicks and the late William Hunt. Dr. Lynne Simpson from the Oklahoma State University Library also joins us to discuss the history of Boley and the importance of education within the community. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: http://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-10-boley-oklahoma

What does Bugs Bunny, That 70s Show, and a Lucky Strike cigarette commercial have in common? Square dancing. Square dancing was once a major part of rural life, especially in Oklahoma. This month, we're taking a look at American folk dances. We'll hear oral history interview excerpts with centenarian Jimmy Ray and former square dance caller Donald Banks. In addition, Dr. Louise Siddons from OSU's Department of Art, Graphic Design, and Art History will join us to talk about contra dancing. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: http://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-9-folk-dancing

Classes are out and the holiday spirit is in the air! This month we're featuring five short oral history excerpts about Christmas during the Great Depression in Oklahoma. In addition, David Peters with the OSU Archives joins us to discuss the history behind the Edmon Low Library's bell tower, known for playing holiday tunes throughout December. So settle down by the fire with a hot cocoa and enjoy some unique Oklahoma holiday stories. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: http://www.library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-8-oklahoma-holiday-memories

The presidential election has ended, but that doesn't mean we're ready to be done with political campaigns here at Amplified Oklahoma. This month is all about political campaigns, election nights, and inaugurations. We'll feature oral history interview excerpts with former Oklahoma legislators Vicki Miles-LaGrange and the late Hannah Atkins. We'll also talk with Dr. Jeanette Mendez from Oklahoma State University's Department of Political Science about her research on women in politics. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: http://www.library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-7-women-in-oklahoma-politics

This month, Amplified Oklahoma brings you Germans in Oklahoma. This episode explores the lives of three generations of German-American women. Listeners will hear oral history interview excerpts from Margaretha Harriman, who was drafted by the Nazis as a teenager, and her niece Margaretha Schwabe, who lived just half a mile from the Berlin Wall. Ilka Heiskell also talks about growing up in Germany two decades after the war. Finally, we'll sit down with Dr. Richard Rohrs from OSU's Department of History and find out why Oklahoma became a center of German culture in the United States. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: http://www.library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-6-germans

"From the Belly of Our Being: art by and about Native creation" runs from September 27, 2016 to January 28, 2017 at the Oklahoma State University Museum of Art. The exhibition features beautiful pieces of Native American art made by talented artists from Oklahoma and across the country. In this episode, we'll listen to oral history interview excerpts with two of the exhibition's artists, Anita Fields and Shan Goshorn. Listeners will also go behind the scenes of the exhibition with curator Heather Ahtone and learn about the inspiration for "From the Belly of Our Being." Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: http://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-5-art

The first week of classes this semester at Oklahoma State University coincides with National Friendship Week, so what better way to start out the school year than to talk about friendship! In this episode, we'll hear from two Oklahoman politicians, Lisa Johnson Billy and Anastasia Pittman, and learn how friendship impacted their lives and political campaigns. Also, Dr. Farida Jalalzai from OSU's Department of Political Science joins us to discuss her research on women in leadership. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: http://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-4-friendship

Whether it's "Hamilton," "Mad Men," or "Saving Private Ryan," everyone loves a little bit of history packed in with their entertainment. In this episode, we're focusing on how the OSU Library transformed the Oklahoma 100 Year Life Oral History Project into "The Centenarian Play." We'll hear from OSU student Trey Phipps and talk about his experience portraying centenarian Delmar Hopkins in the performance. Dr. Alex Bishop from OSU's College of Human Sciences joins us to discuss the use of oral history interviews in his classes. Finally, writer and director Dr. Julie Pearson-Little Thunder from the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program shares her thoughts on creating performances based on oral history interviews. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: http://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-3-the-centenarian-play

In this episode, we're discussing love. June is always a popular wedding month across America, so let's take a look at some unique Oklahoma love stories. Listeners will hear oral history interview excerpts from Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Vance Trimble and Tulsa Public Schools educator Chloe Brown. We'll explore some of the neurobiology of mammalian monogamy and parental bonding in prairie voles with Cornell University's Dr. Alex Ophir. Listeners will also enjoy love in the OSU Library with a special engagement story featuring OSU alums Anna McDougal and Matthew DeKoning. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: http://library.okstate.edu/news/podcast/episode-2-love

In this episode, we're talking tornadoes. May is typically an active weather month in Oklahoma. Devastating storms such as the May 3, 1999 and May 20, 2013 tornadoes will be explored through oral history interview excerpts with Gayland Kitch, Moore, Oklahoma's Director of Emergency Management and Gary England, longtime Oklahoma City meteorologist. Listeners will also hear from Dr. Alex Greer with OSU's Political Science Department about his experiences conducting quick response fieldwork after the May 20th storm. Also, Dr. Tanya Finchum will join us to talk about the Oklahoma Mesonet Oral History Project. Amplified Oklahoma is a production of the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at the Oklahoma State University Library. Show notes: http://www.library.okstate.edu/podcast/episode-1-tornadoes-in-oklahoma