Description

The Bartlesville Area History Museum is honored to announce the opening of the remarkable “1921 Tulsa Race Massacre Traveling Exhibit,” on loan from the Tulsa History Museum. This exhibit offers visitors a powerful and educational exploration of one of the most pivotal and tragic events in Oklahoma’s history, shedding light on the destruction of the Greenwood District—once known as “Black Wall Street”—and its lasting impact.
On Display from now until May 29th, the exhibit presents historical photographs, documents and detailed accounts, all carefully curated to provide context and insight into the events of 1921, as well as the resilience of the Greenwood community in the aftermath. Through this temporary installation, the museum aims to foster reflection, dialogue, and a deeper understanding of this important chapter in both local and national history.
As part of the program, the museum will host an unveiling event, on May 26th, honoring long term Bartlesville resident Viola Fletcher, the oldest known survivor of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre and her enduring legacy as a witness to one of the most significant and painful moments in Oklahoma history. Her story stands as a testament to resilience, remembrance, and the importance of preserving firsthand accounts for future generations.
Both events are open to the public and free of charge. The Museum is open Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (closed on weekends and holidays) at 401 S. Johnstone Avenue, 5th Floor. If you have questions, you may reach Bartlesville Area History Museum staff at (918) 338-4290 or history@cityofbartlesville.org.