Oklahoma celebrates Centennial with land run

The Flying-W Guest Ranch will be home to a giant 3-day birthday celebration in honor of Oklahoma’s Centennial. It all happens May 10, 11, and 12th, 2007 when visitors will be taken back in time to where Oklahoma began with the land run of 1889. Thousands of people came for a chance to own 160 acres of land and the Flying-W Ranch will recreate this famous event.

Three hundred people will have an opportunity to make the run; instead of land, they will run for prizes. The “Homesteaders” must wear clothing of the period and provide their own horse, wagons, or run on foot just as it was in 1889. The 10th Cavalry will also be present in period dress to start the Land Run on Saturday, May 12th, at high noon.

Other attractions will include:
- Wagon and stage coach rides.
- Live concerts with Joe Diffee, Michael Martin Murphy, and the legendary Roy Clark.
- Medicine shows.
- Live buffalo, longhorn cattle, horses, and a petting zoo.
- Wild West shows.
- Bull riding and much more.

Chuck Wagon cooks will be making mouth-watering meals, and vendors of all types will offer souvenirs, food and drinks.

BRIEF HISTORY OF OKLAHOMA RUNS

The first land run began at high noon on April 22nd, 1889. After staking a successful claim settlers had to file paperwork at the land office and pay a $14 filing fee for 160 acres. The run was called “Harrison’s Hoss Race,” and the land was available on a first-come, first-served basis. Officials at the time estimated 50,000 to 75,000 homesteaders made the first run.

By nightfall in Guthrie, the population swelled to up to 15,000 people, living in tents and crude shacks. It was a crazy day but there was little crime or violence. There would eventually be five land runs, from 1889 to 1895 and after the final land run, Oklahoma was officially “born” as the 46th state in the nation.

For more information visit: Flyingwonline.com