CopyWrite Mark House (2017) and Bob Rives (1958)

The old saying "for every picture, there's a thousand words" might actually be true and it was most interesting to run across a classic Oklahoma Historical Society iMage of ole G.A. Byrom who lived in the Binger, Oklahoma, area quite some time ago. The iMage was captioned with "G.A. Byrom, Binger, looks at the site where he and his helpers are staging a modern day treasure hunt."

Now that has to be enticing enough to see if I can "dig" up the details from this storyline dated in 1958. Out the front door goes the "modern day" part but this was new and exciting news back in '58.

I first sent the iMage to my Facebook friend Edna "Byrom" Myers as fact checking the last name and Binger led me to believe she would know something about this historical treasure hunter. Sure enough, Edna messaged me back with some enthusiasm. "Is this him? Wow! George Albert is my dad's father. He passed away in June around 1960 I believe. He was always out walking. Would walk to Binger from about five or six miles away."

Well, my enthusiasm level of diggin' up historical photofacts has increased while now knowing it is relative to someone I know. A quick search of archived information led me right to the storyline that goes with this newly discovered old iMage from 1958. The Oklahoma Publishing  Company iMage was captured by an unidentified photographer near "Indian City" (Anadarko, Oklahoma). The storyline was written by a Bob Rives who was recognized as a "Correspondent" in the February 02, 1958, edition of the Sunday Oklahoman.

Ole Bob wrote a treasure chest full of text about George A. Byrom's great treasure hunt of 1958:

"A search for buried treasure that has all the ingredients of a Saturday matinee was being carried on here this week by five Caddo county farmers.

The men are seeking what they believe is $71,000 in silver and gold coins in a cave at Indian City, U.S.A. The treasure, if it's there, was hidden nearly 100 year ago by an area badman called Red Buck.

According to a story told by one of the hunters, G.A. Byrom, Binger, Buck stashed his hoard in the presence of a 12-year old Indian lad.

This Indian boy, as a man of 94, told Byrom the story some 14 years ago.

According to the tale, the money was stolen by Buck's band and hidden while he took advantage of a healthier climate in Texas.

But, that climate went wrong and Buck died there before he could reclaim the money.

Byrom, sworn to secrecy by the aged Indian, started his hunt years ago. He found the cave, he believed, but the farmer who owned the land wasn't interested and the search never got off the ground.

Now, it's believed a second entrance to the cave can be found.

This is the reason for all the diggin–a job that's being helped by the use of a $10-an-hour bulldozer.

Plans call for going down about 12 feet with the machine, then begin the tedious job of opening the cave with picks and shovels, That is, if it's there.

Indian City, the group which leases the land where hunters are searching, signed a contract with them calling for any artifacts that are found to be turned over to its museum.

All the romance involved doesn't come from the money. The old west atmosphere grows when you notice the herd of buffalo grazing within 50 yards of the workers.

They're there for the viewers at Indian City. A sign, painted in red, cautions "Danger, Wild Buffalo." There's been no trouble thus far.

One of the beasts walked to the bulldozer, sniffed then sauntered away. Other than that, there has been no man and animal contact.

Even if the treasure legend is not true, the hills have a story to tell.

The red bluff, at the base of which the prospectors are digging, overlooks the site of the Tonkawa tribe massacre.

This tribe, unpopular because other tribes thought it cannibalistic, was wiped out nearly to a man in a battle fought here years ago.

Descendants of the few who survived still live in this area.

Sandstone cliffs here are honeycombed with caves, many of them used for shelter by early day Indian tribes. Not 10 feet from the site of the diggins is a cave entrance.

Another 40 feet away is a large one, half-way up the steep bluff.

It's someplace in the vast network of caves Byrom and his helpers hope to locate the money. If not, 'well it's fun looking,' the grizzled old-timer says."

reSearch & copyWrite By Mark House

With a challenging goal of carrying on a long-lasting family tradition of the highest quality and complete auto body repair service, Todd Stehr and Derek Jordan have joined in partnership at Stehr's Body Shop in Clinton, Oklahoma, to do just that. Both aspire to maintain such high standards of a "Master Workmen" tradition originated by their ancestors in an earlier part of the previous century.

This family owned and operated business, located at 104 East Gary Boulevard, has provided Clinton and western Oklahoma with the highest quality of auto body service for nearly nine decades. "We've learned from the finest and we're looking forward to providing the same when it comes to our family craft," says Todd Stehr. "We take pride in being from Clinton and our family being able to serve the needs of western Oklahoma for such a long time now."

This higher standard of service quality has become an expectation of area vehicle owners since William "Bill" Stehr, at the age of twenty-five (25), originally opened one of Clinton's first full service body shops back in 1930. This with the foresight to meet the demand of any and all repairs related to vehicle body damage. From body and fender repair to complete glass installation, Bill and his crew pioneered these types of early day services in the Clinton area. Not as amateurs but with recognition from within the industry and community as "Master Workmen." The elder Stehr's venture into the business thrived as automobile sales aggressively moved forward despite the economical hard times of this so called "depression" era.

In these earlier days of automobiles, William "Bill" Stehr recognized the necessity to offer consumers an alternative to buying new fenders and other damaged and dented car parts that could be repaired to like new condition at a fraction of the cost. Utilizing special methods, his crew of "Master Workmen" were trained to repair any size fender and/or body dents and to completely rebuild any model auto body back into its new condition if needed. Although this process has become more commonplace today, it was quite an accomplishment in the 1930's and quite welcomed by depression era auto owners who certainly benefitted from saving their hard earned dollars.

William "Bill" Stehr (far left) founded the Stehr family business that has served Clinton and western Oklahoma with the highest quality of auto body repair service since 1930. William's brother Otto (second from left) was a member of this pioneering crew that earned recognition as "Master Workmen" from within the industry and community.

According to historically published Clinton newspaper details, Bill and his "prompt and reliable" crew provided many of the same services offered by Stehr's Body Shop today. From fender repair, radiator repair, complete auto body rebuilding, auto painting, rebuilt auto tops, auto glass repair and welding of all kinds, these standard services have remained most similar since 1930. Even free estimates, which are still provided today, were offered to auto owners from the body shop's very beginning.    

Bill's younger brother, Emanuel Stehr, eventually took over the body shop as owner and operator while providing, perfecting and advancing the company's elite services. Emanuel helped transition from the simpler early day fender and auto body repair needs to include more modern classic car restorations and modifications demanded by automobile and hot rod enthusiasts in the 1950's and 1960's.

From there, and more recently known within the community, Calvin Stehr purchased the business in the late 1960's. Ironically within the family tree of transition, Calvin was the same age (25) as his uncle Bill when the business was originally started in 1930.

Learning the trade with a self-motivation towards quality craftsmanship while working for his father, Calvin took over the reigns of this tradition-rich family business in 1967. Having to emulate the 1930's accommodation of growing demand, Calvin himself had to expand his full-time staff and move to larger location in 1978. As auto repair techniques evolved over the years, Calvin's dedication to quality workmanship and excellent service remained a priority.

With an equivalent level of commitment from Bill and Emanuel Stehr before him, Calvin's contribution to such high levels of quality service established a distinguished standard in western Oklahoma. Stehr's passion for his work and personal restoration of classic cars is undoubtedly well remembered around the Clinton area.

Calvin's enthusiasm and historic "Master Craftsmen" standards are now carried forward by his descendants Todd Stehr and Derek Jordan. As business partners at Stehr's Body Shop, Todd and Derek are teaming up to move the family business forward in this early part of the twenty-first century as the demand for auto body repair has done nothing but grow from the early days to present. "The need for car owners to save money by repairing damaged parts instead of buying new is as relevant today as it was back in the depression era of the 1930's," said Stehr.

As an apprentice learning under the mentorship of his father Calvin, Todd acquired the skills of the trade through hands on hard work and with a dedication to becoming the best in mind. Todd assumed control of the business in 1996 while continuing to improve upon the quality of service and workmanship that became an expectation in western Oklahoma since the doors were opened back in 1930.

Derek also learned the craft of body repair and painting under the tutelage of Calvin Stehr. Both bring a tremendous amount of experience into the partnership. Possessing motivation most similar to their ancestors, to serve as "Master Workmen," Todd and Derek look forward to meeting the projected and continued growth in demand for complete auto body repair service in western Oklahoma. "We've had to expand our crew with the intent of serving our customers in the best way possible," shared Derek Jordan. "We figured it up to be over one hundred and thirty-eight (138) years of professional experience within our current workforce," said Jordan. "That makes me proud to be a part of this business."

Derek Jordan (far left) and Todd Stehr (far right) have joined in partnership at Stehr's Body Shop in Clinton, Oklahoma. With "Gold Class" certification included, the current workforce at Stehr's Body Shop serves western Oklahoma with a combined one hundred thirty-eight (138) years of professional experience.

From within the professional work crew at Stehr's Body Shop is found a "Gold Class" certification from the nationally recognized I-Car organization which provides advanced education, knowledge and solutions for the collision repair industry. According to I-Car, "Gold Class recognition is the highest role-relevant training achievement recognized by the collision repair industry." I-Car estimates that only ten percent of repair shops nationwide meet this rigorous Gold Class standard. Stehr's Body Shop is recognized as being a part of this exclusive top ten percent nationwide.

From 1930 to present day, the company and its employees have proudly provided complete auto body repair and restoration services including the more modern and all important frame repair. "It all has to start with a straight frame," shares Todd Stehr. "We offer our customers one of the best frame straightening machines in the world from Chief Automotive Technologies. We just call it the 'Chief.' It allows us to diagnose and identify collision damage and we can then repair the damage through pulling the frame, replacing parts and/or welding. This valuable process allows customer vehicles to be recognized as returned to original manufacturer specifications which is very important in regard to resale value," concluded Stehr.

Probably the most unique service offered by Stehr's Body Shop, both in the past and present, is appliance painting. "This service has been provided since the beginning so we continue to offer it now," stated Derek Jordan. "If someone needs their washer or dryer or any other appliance repainted, we enjoy honoring this gesture of the past. Same as in the old days, we also provide all types of Acetylene Welding for those in need," said Jordan.    

Possessing one of the top businesses recognized nationally with a "Gold Class" standard, residents of Clinton and western Oklahoma can rest assured their auto body repair demands can and will be met by the best. With such an outstanding history of workmanship accompanied by an astonishing A-Plus rating from Oklahoma's Better Business Bureau, vehicle owners in need of auto body repair services appreciate the confidence of knowing they have access to one of the nation's elite body shops located at 104 East Gary Boulevard in Clinton.

reSearch and copyWrite upDate 02/13/18 By Mark House

Based upon documented information researched with confidence of accuracy, and, on behalf of the family of Leroy "Ace" Gutowsky; Kingfisher, Oklahoma High School; Oklahoma City University; the Portsmouth Spartans; the Detroit Lions; the great state of Oklahoma; and myself, Mark House, I respectfully nominate and request sincere consideration of Leroy "Ace" Gutowsky for a posthumous "Senior" induction into the National Football League's Pro Football Hall Of Fame in Canton, Ohio.

From within a collage of antiquated football photos discovered at an estate sale in Oklahoma, a Pro Football Hall Of Fame nomination has been born. Sounds like one of those old "Strange But True Football Stories." One composed by the infamous author Zander Hollander back in the late 1960's. Noted as "stories of odd, humorous and incredible moments in football history," this particular one about Detroit Lion Leroy "Ace" Gutowsky would seem to fit right in.

Certainly with no thought of any Hall Of Fame potential existing at the time, Leroy "Ace" Gutowsky rambled his way to the top of the National Football League's (NFL) ground gainer list by 1939. As a Portsmouth Spartan (632 yds.) and Detroit Lion (2,445 yds.) workhorse, Gutowsky owned his team's rushing record for the better part of three decades leading into the 1960's. NFL.com lists him as the leading rusher for the leatherhead decade of the 1930's. As well, NFL.com recognizes Gutowsky as the ring leader of a 1934 defense that gave up an "astonishingly low" total of only 59 points over an entire 13 game slate.

Despite numerous undocumented, uncalculated and totally fictional accounts of Ace Gutowsky being born in Komolty, Russia, this former Oklahoma City University Goldbug "All-American" was born a true American in 1909 near what is now a southwestwestern Oklahoma ghost town. A ghost town historically named in remembrance of a true Native American and popular Kiowa Indian Chief known as Ko Mah Ty.

The official birth certificate of Ace Gutowsky's son, Jerry Gutowsky, provides documented proof of his 1909 birthplace being listed as Komalty, Oklahoma. The historically misunderstood fact is, it was Ace's father (Assuph Gutowsky) that was an original Russian immigrant arriving in the United States as a parentless child. Oklahoma's Kingfisher County official census information from 1920 documents Assuph Gutowsky's year of "immigration" as being in 1892 which is seventeen years previous to the birth of his son Ace.

The former Oklahoma City "All-American" Ace Gutowsky is officially recognized with 3,279 league leading rushing yards in his eight NFL seasons. Many would consider this a miraculous accomplishment considering the various Hall Of Fame gridiron stars Ace competed with and against on his way to becoming King Of The NFL Mountain in the 1930's.

Earl "Dutch" Clark was a teammate of Ace with the Portsmouth Spartans and Detroit Lions from 1932-1938. Alphonse "Tuffy" Leemans was an opponent with the New York Giants from 1936-1939. Bronko Nagurski played for the rival Chicago Bears against Ace from 1932-1937. And, along with Nagurski, another most famous Bear by the name of Red Grange shared some of the same leatherhead gridiron turf and time as that of Leroy "Ace" Gutowsky.

Gutowsky's Hall Of Fame teammate Dutch Clark, along with other greats such as Alphonse Leemans and Bronko Nagurski were voted as part of the National Football League 1930's All-Decade Team. Yet, this mighty gridiron warrior arising from the tribal lands of southwest Oklahoma out gained these and other Hall Of Fame caliber leatherheads on his way to being recognized as the NFL's career rushing leader before retiring in 1939.

Could the massive media machines of the larger Chicago and New York markets inadvertently assisted with the oversight of one Leroy  "Ace" Gutowsky? How is it that Gutwosky rushed past the NFL's all-time greats without notice and/or recognition?  Is this man named Gutowsky the "true" Galloping Ghost of pro football's past?

This documented 1930's rushing champion, Leroy "Ace" Gutowsky, literally "broke" into the NFL in 1931 as he was contracted by Dr. Harry A. March to play for the New York Giants National Football League Company. Discovered within the original contract offer, Dr. March seemed more than thrilled to sign this 1930 All-American from Oklahoma City University at $75.00 per game for his first four with an offer of $100.00 per games to follow. Unfortunately after accepting Dr. March's contract offer with the Giants, Ace broke his leg during their preseason training camp. He then had to sit out and heal up for a full year before eventually getting another chance with the Portsmouth Spartans in 1932.

Amazingly, and as a rookie for the historical Spartans, Gutowsky became the second leading rusher (behind Hall Of Famer Dutch Clark) in the year of 1932. He also tied Clark for the team lead in rushing touchdowns with three and produced a team high yards per carry average of 3.9. It didn't take long for Ace to work his way onto the gridiron as a Spartan regular playing in eight games and starting in four. This at a time when old school leatherhead rules of the game did not allow for general substitutions but only for serious injury to a player on the field.

As well, rookie Ace Gutowsky and the Portsmouth Spartans participated in the first "recognized" NFL playoff game against George Halas' Chicago Bears in 1932. This Chicago team included the Hall Of Fame talents of both Bronko Nagurski and Red Grange. Due to extreme inclement weather, this December 18, 1932, championship game was held indoors at Chicago Stadium.

Rookie QB/LB Ace Gutowsky (#5) fills a gap for the Portsmouth Spartans in the first NFL playoff game against the Chicago Bears.

As future Hall Of Famer Earl "Dutch" Clark was unable to participate and call out his standard "Ace And Go On Two," it was ole rookie Ace Gutowsky himself who moved from fullback to quarterback in this first NFL playoff game against the Bears. While Clark was obligated to coaching duties back in Colorado, it was Gutowsky who courageously stepped in and guided the Spartan offense in this landmark first indoor and first championship gridiron contest against the history laden Bears.

Along with participating in this first NFL playoff game, Gutowsky also was a noted offensive and defensive star in the Lions' first ever 1934 NFL Thanksgiving Day game vs. the vaunted Bears. "Despite two Ace Gutowsky touchdowns, the Lions lost 19-16." But, the NFL's Thanksgiving Day historical broadcast tradition was launched in fine fashion with Ko Mah Ty's warrior carrying more than his share of the load for his team that had just recently moved to Detroit.

Ace Gutowsky (#5)  hard line plunges forward against the Chicago Bears in the 1934 Thanksgiving Day contest. Gutowsky scored two touchdowns for his Detroit Lions in this first nationally broadcast (radio) NFL game.

Ace Gutowsky's pinnacle NFL season materialized in 1936 with the Detroit Lions. Following a 1935 Championship season with the Lions, Ace rushed for a team high 827 yards in 1936. Although out rushing Hall Of Fame teammate Dutch Clark by 199 yards and Hall Of Fame rival Bronko Nagurski by 298 yards, Gutowsky did fall 3 yards short of Hall Of Famer Alphonse "Tuffy" Leemans for this annual rushing title. Despite this three yard discrepancy, official records indicate Gutowsky was the NFL's All-Purpose yard man in this year of 1936.

While taking nothing away from the "Great Nagurski," Red Grange, Tuffy Leemans and others with similar elite profiles, could Ace Gutowsky be the most overlooked and underrated football star in NFL history? Can his decade of leading NFL rushing stats, amassed while competing head to head with such great players be misleading? Does the body of work of one Leroy "Ace"Gutowsky deserve sincere consideration for NFL Hall Of Fame induction? "Most definitely" should be an obvious answer to these historical reflections with confidence that one of the greatest NFL players should no longer remain outside the realm of a most deserved Hall Of Fame recognition.

Author's Note: Information contained within this Hall Of Fame nomination has been researched and composed with confidence of accuracy. iMages have been collected and utilized with no intent of profit but with enthusiasm for rediscovery of a much overlooked yet predominant piece of National Football League history.

copyWrite By Mark House

On behalf of the city of Clinton, Oklahoma, please accept this application request for a cost-share grant made available by the National Parks Service Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program. Understanding the cost share requirements of a 1:1 cost share match, the city of Clinton, Oklahoma, requests, from the Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program, the amount of thirty thousand dollars ($30,000.00).

The city of Clinton, Oklahoma, commits to match this $30,000.00 grant opportunity with effort to establish a $60,000.00 joint venture project to resurface five blocks of an original 10th Street segment of the historic Route 66 Highway. This to include visual identification markers recognizing the historical Route 66 Highway providing new and improved promotion and direction for Route 66 enthusiasts, tourists and visitors traveling to and through our city.

Historic Route 66 runs right through the heart of Clinton, Oklahoma. Previously known as Oklahoma State Highway No. 3, this vital avenue of business, tourist and visitor transportation was officially designated and approved as part of the U.S. Federal Route 66 Highway system in 1926.

This particular joint-venture opportunity would allow the city of Clinton to resurface an original section (10th Street Segment) of Route 66 while including its historical identity and improving its usefulness. The resurfacing and identity improvements will be implemented with a goal of support towards preservation and promotion of this historic highway. As well, the project would support and enhance Clinton's annual Route 66 events and also help magnify the long term existence of Clinton's famous Route 66 Museum and Annual Route 66 Festival.

Clinton's Route 66 Museum is well known for its preservation of Mother Road history.

Referencing Clinton's world renowned preservation of Route 66 history, the Oklahoma Historical Society shares: "For the ultimate Route 66 experience, visit the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton, OK. The museum's galleries have recently been redesigned to offer visitors a personal journey through the history of the nation's most revered highway. Encounter the iconic ideas, images, and myths of the Mother Road. Learn about the dreams and the labor needed to make the road a reality. Experience the dust bowl as thousands streamed along the road, away from drought and despair and towards the 'land of promise.' Listen to the sounds of the Big Band Era, when the roar of the big trucks and the welcome home cries to returning soldiers dominated the road. Sit at the counter or a booth in the 1950s diner and feel the open road as America's families vacationed along the length of Route 66. You just might overhear the family's chatter as they eat their lunch. The museum also offers changing special exhibits, focusing on the Route 66 experience."

Clinton's trend setting Route 66 Museum has attracted visitors from all over the world.

The Road Wanderer travel blog references Clinton's Route 66 Museum as "another must stop place for the avid Mother Road fan. The community here has a great respect for its Mother Road. The Route 66 Museum is the first state sponsored Route 66 Museum in the nation. It is one fantastic place to absorb the history of this celebrated highway."

As a trend setter, Clinton was a first to recognize the great value, both economic and civic, that materializes with historic preservation. Within the past few decades, other Mother Road communities have also come to recognize such great value and and such great benefits that come with preserving and rehabilitating our historic Route 66. Clinton desires, with grant assistance available from the Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program, to continue this trend.

As well as the all important historic preservation, the city of Clinton, Oklahoma, has been most progressive in promoting the Mother Road through the Annual Route 66 Festival hosted free each year for the enjoyment of thousands of enthusiastic citizens and visitors. Developed out of consideration for social responsibility, this free public event evolves around Route 66's historical heritage and stimulates local economic development as well as citizen and visitor morale.

Oklahoma's Tourism and Recreation Department describes the Clinton Route 66 Festival as a major calendar event each year. The Department of Tourism and Recreation shares their description of the upcoming 2016 event: "Get your kicks on Route 66 with festivities that include a car and bike show, poker run, free concert, vendors, Wiener National dog races, free hot dogs and more. The annual Clinton Route 66 Festival invites visitors to compete or simply browse through contestant entries in the Route 66 Car, Truck and Bike Show. Car categories include original and modified vehicles from 1900 to present. Antique motorcycles, custom bikes, vintage trucks and more will all be on display."

Highlighting each annual Route 66 Festival is an evening concert hosted free at Clinton's historic McClain Rogers Park. This concert attracts very large crowds and creates an enjoyable evening of music within a fun family event atmosphere. A climactic ending to a massive and thrilling annual Route 66 event hosted each year by the city of Clinton.

Clinton Route 66 Festival visitors travel down an original part of Old Route 66 (10th Street Segment) to enjoy the annual concert finale held at McClain Rogers Park.

According to National Park Service (NPS) historical records, McClain Rogers Park was completed between 1934 and 1937 as it originally "welcomed visitors, who could enter directly off Route 66 (aka 10th Street Segment), through an impressive Art Deco style gate with brick piers on either side of Bess Rogers Drive. McLain Rogers Park is important to the recreational and economic development of Clinton. This design is still evident today."

As well, entry to McClain Rogers Park remains in tact and directly off Route 66 as it did when the park was opened for public service back in 1937. The NPS indicates that "traffic on Route 66 increased the work of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and the last Depression era building constructed in the park is the 1941 Highway Patrol Building near the main entrance gate."

Route 66 enthusiasts are treated to an annual and free Festival Concert at McClain Rogers Park.

The National Park Service also states "the 12-acre park has changed very little over the years, still featuring the kinds of recreational attractions that appealed to local residents and cross-country travelers during the 1930s and 40s. Devotees of the Mother Road go to Clinton to use the park but also to see this Works Progress Administration (WPA) masterpiece, the Art Deco east gate of the park, situated directly on old Route 66 and still shining with it's original neon at night."

Matching the requested $30,000.00 grant from the ROUTE 66 CORRIDOR PRESERVATION PROGRAM, the CITY OF CLINTON, OKLAHOMA, desires to invest the required and additional $30,000.00 with joint effort to improve, preserve and promote a vital part of Mother Road history. A history that has been cherished and represented in a most proper way by the city of Clinton for many years. A same history that will be cherished and represented in a most proper way for many years to come.

On behalf of the city of Clinton, Oklahoma, respectful request of consideration is presented for available matching grant funds from the Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program.

Much less considering your home state and home county, somebody said somewhere somehow that if you're an entertainer, it's hardest to be most popular in your hometown. An oddity but seems truthful when it comes to singers, songwriters, musicians and Jesus. I have no answer for such phenomenon. Being a novice songwriter and not much of a performer, I've never had to worry about such.

As a fan though, my reactions are usually opposite of the norm. So, back in the late 1960's when I heard ole Verlon Thompson play at the Lookeba-Sickles (Oklahoma) high school gymnasium, I thought Elvis or Johnny Cash had come to our small town. It was that exciting to me. I confess referral to the late 60's as I can't remember if it was 1968 or 1969? Despite the memory loss of exact dates, as a young six or seven year old kid hearing a live performance for the first time, it made quite an impact. One that evidently floats around in the back of a much older mind with a recall of it being truly a sensational experience. If I had to guess, I'd say it was 1969.

From that moment, It would be about 1979 until my ears would hear the music of Verlon Thompson once again. Between then and then, the only tie to his existence would be that my mom fixed his mom's hair near once a week or so. I just remember that (Darwettia) was Verlon Thompson's mom.

Before I left Lookeba (Oklahoma) and Caddo County, I also learned that Darwettia was Rex Thompson's mom as well. Ole Rex could throw a baseball near what seemed a 100 m.p.h. So, you can only imagine what that meant to a younger pup wanna be baseball player. Humorously, as a naive and youthful right-hander, I remember trying to throw lefty like Rex thinking that is where the speed is. It's funny to think back at how things were thought out as a kid. The non-scientific and experimental switch to lefty sure didn't seem to help any at all with speed or accuracy while trying to hit that "broad side of an old barn." Back in the good ole days of 1976, Rex struck out 39 of 51 batters while pitching all 17 innings of two back to back extra inning tournament victories for the Panthers of Lookeba-Sickles (Oklahoma). Now that's some glory days of legendary stuff worth remembering for sure.

Although Verlon Thompson has composed and performs a captivating number entitled "Caddo County," many from his home town area, county and state are unaware they own braggin' rights to one of America's greatest songsmiths.

In my opinion, the vocal, writing and guitar pickin' abilities of Verlon Thompson are much overlooked and somewhat under appreciated. This not being the fault or intention of anyone. Just circumstances of that old hometown phenomenon. "Cain't be nobody that good from round here?" We probably should also consider a few generations have come and gone since Verlon moved to Nashville to hone his trade. From there, he has journeyed a great many places to share his authentically fashioned compositions.

Maybe, through this blogUmentary, a chosen few from our younger generations will learn of who he is, where he's from and what he's done. If it influences any talented individuals towards the thought process of a career in the music industry, then that would make the effort worthwhile for sure.

Working as an on-air personality in the late 1970's at a radio station in western Oklahoma, somehow, what I think would be one of Thompson's first recorded efforts showed up in our album bin. I have to admit, that one impacting performance from my younger years influenced me to a point of spinning that album a bit more than others. "Don't Follow A Plow Boy" was one of my favorites and honestly the only cut I can recall. Coming from a family with farming roots, I could easily relate to and enjoy the words he shared with western Oklahoma's traditional country music radio listeners. This at a time when Alabama, Kenny Rogers and many others were preparing to throw country music tradition right out the window as our "elbow hung out and we were rollin' free."

From that moment of spinning that first album in the late 1970's, it would be the early 1990's before I picked up on the trail of Thompson's music again. While moving closer to the big city and enjoying the fruits of cable TV, I just happened to catch a video on the picture tube entitled "She's The One." I can distinctly remember thinking, hey, that's Verlon Thompson!

An early Capitol Records career performance of Verlon Thompson's original song titled "She's The One."

Between then and now, I've tapped in to the enjoyment of surfing the world wide web and discovering a multitude of songs written and performed by Thompson that can be found floating around in cyberspace. These discovered mostly at a cyberspace station called YouTube. Most have heard of it and it is easy to search and find numerous Thompson performances that, to me, are most pleasurable to listen to and visually enjoy. One of my favorites to date is an original tune Thompson performs with Shawn Camp on the Porch Stage at the 2010 Suwannee Springfest in Live Oak, Florida, entitled "He Left The Road."

Shawn Camp assists Verlon Thompson at the Annual Suwannee Springfest with a Thompson original titled "He Left The Road."

For those who've taken the time to view the video performances included with this blogUmentary, I'm confident most will have developed an appreciation for the true talents of Oklahoma's own Verlon Thompson. Doesn't matter if you like the music style or not, no one can deny the depth of pure and natural talent that exists.

Except for a brief commercialized attempt in the early 90's, there's been no synthetic sound effects, no extravagant light systems, no major awards and no major press coverage. Just a solitary man with a creative songwriting mind and six strings that seem to captivate live audiences everywhere he goes. Very similar to the unaccompanied young man I remember performing on that small high school auditorium stage back in 1969. Or, was it 1968?

Before concluding what has been one of the more interesting and fun pieces to research and write, I share one last song discovered to be representative of one of Oklahoma's greatest songsmith talents. "The Ballad Of Stringbean And Estelle" is a most enchanting piece of music written by Thompson, Sam Bush and Guy Clark. It's lyrics capture the story of the murder of well known Nashville, Grand Ole Opry and Hee Haw banjo playing star David "Stringbean" Aekman. Aekman and his wife Estelle were murdered by John Brown and his cousin Marvin Brown during a home invasion robbery on November 10, 1973.

If Paul Harvey were still around, he'd certainly have to share the "rest of this story" as John Brown more recently was released on parole despite his involvement in the horrific double murder of Stringbean and his wife Estelle. John's cousin and cohort in this crime, Marvin Brown, died while serving his time in prison.

Four plus decades following this "atrocious" crime, many are deservedly disturbed that Brown has been set free from his "life without parole" prison sentence. Of course, now we can only wonder if there may be one last challenging verse to be composed for inclusion in "The Ballad Of Stringbean And Estelle?"

copyWrite by Mark House (2016) and Ty Cobb (1910)

It is not often a novice such as I discovers an opportunity to write a genuine old school baseball article with whom many consider the greatest player to ever live on the face of this sphere we call earth. By random chance of researching a 1910 issue of my hometown newspaper (Lookeba Index) for anything or any name that might be familiar, I just happened upon an original article written by the ole "Georgia Peach" himself Tyrus Raymond "Ty" Cobb.

Cobb was born in the southern state of Georgia on the 18th day of December back in 1886. His rookie season came about at the age of eighteen in 1905 with the Detroit Tigers. By his personal account of writing in 1910, evidence suggests Cobb had already earned consideration of being the "greatest player" within the game of baseball.

It was quite random to find Cobb's iMage and personal description of the beginning of his baseball career in its original published form. Undoubtedly, my hometown newspaper "proprieter" from this early twentieth century window of time, Mr. George Goodin, must have been a baseball fan himself. I am thrilled we share this commonality and even more thrilled to discover such writings of Ty Cobb that Mr. Goodin chose to share with the readers of his October 6, 1910, edition.

Research indicates some historians believe Cobb's chronicled account of his start in baseball could have been ghostwritten by a professional writer. Either way and anyway, in regard to today, it can be enthusiastically considered quite ghostly and quite interesting information from baseball's historical past.

Mr. Goodin headlined this story with "COBB TELLS OF HIS START." He also included a sub headline that read "One Of Greatest Players Game Has Ever Known Had Hard Time Getting Into Fast Company." From there, the process of typesetting, printing and local distribution of the words recorded by one Tyrus Raymond Cobb was underway.

Utilizing more current and standard net surfing procedures, I have included a few facts (in parenthesis) that I believe will enhance interest and depth as Ty Cobb shares his somewhat brief story of baseball genesis. This while, oddly enough, referencing himself in third person.  

"It took me a long time to convince anyone that I was a good ball player. I think the first one who ever thought I was a great player was Cobb himself, and because others refused to believe it he felt bad.

I was born down in Georgia (Narrows) and began playing the game while at school (Franklin County High School of Royston, GA). As I recall it, I always played the same way, took all the chances there were, and ran all the time. Lots of people now think that is good baseball, but the fellows with whom I played refused for a long time to think so. In fact at the finish of the game, our team usually was divided into two factions, with Cobb on one side and all the others on the other. I had ideas regarding how to play the game but none of us ever had seen much baseball, and we had to think it out for ourselves.

One of the big wonders to me is that I was a boy, made plays the same way, and for the same reasons that the star ball players of the big leagues were making, and I never had heard of them. After I got older I commenced to watch the professional team (possibly Atlanta Firemen) in the Southern league play, and although there were a lot of reasons why I shouldn't have left home, I longed to become a professional player. It was not for the money or anything like that, but because I loved the game and loved to be in the midst of it every time there was a game.

Now, it is my advice to all young fellows not to go into baseball or into anything else unless your heart really is in the work and you love it, and then quit it just as soon as your love of it and your enthusiasm for it begin to die out. I left home to show up the league (South Atlantic League), and a few weeks later Jack Grim bought me. The club I was with (Augusta Tourists) sold me to Grim I think for $8.50, the price of the car fare home and my hotel bill. I had been doing the same thing again, and my overzealousness cost me the position. I was slated to go way down into the bushes (minor leagues) and perhaps I would have stayed there and never come out but for the fact that Detroit had some sort of a string to me and Grim could not get me. So I went to Detroit," concluded Cobb.

Author's Note: The iMage of Ty Cobb was included with article published in the October 6, 1910, edition of the Lookeba Index.

copyWrite By Mark House
copyWrite upDate 10.14.16

Historically and statistically, Mike Moore is one of the greatest MLB pitchers ever to be born and raised in our great state of Oklahoma. Many will testify that he is personally one of the greatest people to be born and raised in our great state of Oklahoma. For such reasons and on behalf of his family; the Eakly Eagles; the Oral Roberts University Golden Eagles; the Seattle Mariners; the Oakland Athletics; the Detroit Tigers and fans of Oklahoma baseball, I, Mark House, respectfully nominate Mike Moore for 2017 induction into Oklahoma's prestigious Sports Hall Of Fame.

What a great baseball story originating from the dusty ole peanut fields of Oklahoma's Caddo County and ending up on a red dirt mound in sunny California with sweet victory in World Championship Series play for the Oakland A's. From a proudly worn little league uniform with an iron-on E for Eakly to the MLB with a more glorified and perfectly stitched A's cap for Oakland. It only happens for a chosen few. A chosen few with such a high level of natural talent and the highest level of work ethic to match.

Mike Moore

One of Oklahoma's all time greats, Mike Moore, earned two of his 161 career Major League Baseball victories in the 1989 World Series for the Oakland A's.

Mike Moore, over his 14 year professional career, has earned the right to be considered one of Oklahoma's greatest red dirt, red blood, born and raised, Major League Baseball pitchers of all time. Solid statistical evidence stands behind this claim of such greatness. The most significant statistics relative to career Major League Baseball victories, strikeouts and average strikeouts per season place Mike at the top of Oklahoma's list with fellow Oklahoma standout Allie Reynolds and Major League Baseball hall of famers Warren Spahn and Carl Hubbell.

Only one Oklahoman, Mike Moore, has ever been drafted #1 since the inception of the Major League Baseball draft in 1965. From over fifty years of MLB player drafts, only Mike Moore from Eakly, Oklahoma, has represented the Sooner State as a #1 selection back in 1981. Amazement continued in 1981 as Oklahoma's Joe Carter was selected #2 overall in this same MLB draft.

Only six Oklahoma born players have broken the 1,000 career strikeout plateau. Mike Moore's top-of-the-list 1,667 averaged per season calculates to 119. Allie Reynolds' 1,423 averaged per season adds up to 108.5. On average, no one else comes close to these two great pitchers born and raised in our great state. Moore's 119 per season is higher than that of Carl Hubbell (104.8) and even rivals that of the great Warren Spahn at 123. Although not actually born in Oklahoma, both MLB hall of fame pitchers Hubbell and Spahn are deservedly considered two of Oklahoma's greatest.

With 1,667, Mike Moore tops the MLB career strikeout list for pitchers born and raised in Oklahoma. His career season average of 119 is better than MLB hall of famer Carl Hubbell and falls just four shy of the great Warren Spahn's season whiff average of 123.

So, where does Mike Moore fit into the realm of Oklahoma's Greatest Pitchers? No doubt, he's one of the best when it comes to the list of Oklahoma's actual born and raised category. No doubt, we can find comparable stats to any pitcher considered to be great and from Oklahoma. But, to date, only Big Bang Theory hard core pop bottle glasses wearing statisticians would consider the many years, as a #1 draft pick, Moore had to pitch for one of the worst teams in Major League Baseball and acknowledge with tribute that he is Oklahoma's greatest red dirt, red blood, born and raised pitcher. 

Mike Moore was a standout student athlete for Eakly High School. With a 24-2 senior season record and an unbelievable .05 earned run average (E.R.A.), Moore earned his final high school victory while being selected MVP in Oklahoma's 29th Annual All-State Baseball Classic in 1978.

Despite being drafted in the third round out of Eakly High School in 1978 by the St. Louis Cardinals, Moore chose to attend college and pitch for Oral Roberts University. Also bypassing a basketball scholarship offer from the University of Oklahoma, he earned First Team Sporting News All-American baseball status in 1981 while at ORU. Moore then became the FIRST right handed pitcher ever to be drafted into the Major Leagues #1 OVERALL by the Seattle Mariners in 1981. This being the same year fellow Oklahoman Joe Carter was selected #2 overall by the Chicago Cubs.

Former Oklahoma high school umpire Jim Ruff claims Moore "at the high school level, was too good for everybody else. Most everybody was scared to death of him because of his speed."

Daily Oklahoman columnist, the late Bob Hersom, recognized Moore as an "Eakly High School and Oral Roberts University (ORU) pitching ace."

1981 ORU Pitching Coach Jim Brewer said "I've seen a lot of pitchers in the last 25 years and I think Mike Moore is probably one of the strongest."

During the 1989 World Series, former Oakland A's Pitching Coach Dave Duncan shared that "Mike hasn't just been sitting back and trying to let his God-given ability take over, he's worked hard to improve in all the different areas to become a great pitcher."

Daily Oklahoman columnist, baseball historian and sports talk radio personality Berry Tramel shares "Moore's 161 MLB wins should be a 'SLAM DUNK' in regard to Oklahoma Sports Hall Of Fame induction."

Eakly, Oklahoma's Mike Moore gives up only one run on three hits in seven innings as the Oakland A's defeat San Francisco 5-1 in game two of the 1989 MLB World Series.

Baseball Almanac documents Mike Moore as being twenty-two (22) years old when he broke into the majors with the Seattle Mariners on April 11, 1982. Pinnacle highlights of Moore's 161 WIN – 1,667 STRIKEOUT fourteen year MLB career include 1989 MLB All-Star status and pitching in two World Series Championships for the Oakland A's in both 1989 and 1990.

Author's Note: Information for this official blogUmentary nomination has been researched and composed with confidence of accuracy.

copyWrite Mark House

On April 20, 2016, exactly one hundred and five years of God given time will have passed since Oklahoma State Prison Convict #2219 shared "The Convicts Dream" with readers of the Lookeba Index. While working as part of an Oklahoma State Prison road crew, Convict #2219 recorded, in poetic form, his recollection of a previous night's dream.

This particular dream was evidently deemed by publisher George Goodin as interesting enough to share with the town's newspaper readership in his April 20, 1911, edition of the Lookeba Index.

At this particular time, prisoners from the state penitentiary were in town to help construct about ten miles of road through Lookeba and towards the Sickles area. Convict #2219 was one of one hundred prisoners who arrived by train in 1911 for this particular road construction project.

Convict #2219 lines up with ninety-nine other Oklahoma State Penitentiary road construction crew members as they unload from the train in Lookeba in 1911.

Written from within the confines of a dreary and dusty ole prison camp located just west of Lookeba, Convict #2219 shares The Convicts Dream as typeset and printed by publisher George Goodin …

"Last night as I slumbered I had a strange dream
Which carried me back to the west
I saw my old home and the faces of friends
Who always will love me the best.
I sat by the fire, the dear ones around
Their voices I plainly could hear
And faces I saw in the fire's bright glow
Of the friends to my heart ever dear
I saw the old homestead and church in the wood
Where my father and mother would go
And the preacher who spoke to them of God's word
In a voice that was gentle and low
I saw the old school house that stood on the hill
With its maps all tattered and worn,
And school books were there all scattered about
With their leaves all soiled and torn
I saw the old mill that stood by the stream
And the miller all wrinkled and gray,
I saw the old wheel as it slowly turned 'round
By the waters that soon passed away.
I saw the green fields and the cattle around
And the sheep with their tinkling bells,
And the horses that drank at the big water trough
That stood by the deep rock wells
I saw the old arm chair–my mother in it
Where for hours she often would sew,
And the path-way that came up from the old gate
Through the place where the violets grow.
I saw my old father as often he'd sit
With the bible each evening he read
By the candles dim light that burned in the room
As he sat on the side of the bed
My sisters and brothers all gathered around,
To hear what the father did say.
And when he had finished he'd close the good Book,
And we knelt, while my father would pray.
And I thought of the life that future held out,
And how happy my life was to be
But I 'woke with a start from my dreaming last night
And found I no longer was free,
I rose from my bed with low bowed head
I called on the Father above,
And asked him to guide me and carry me through,
And back to the ones that I love."

As a prisoner of life and of mankind, Convict #2219 called upon his memories of the Bible his father had read and, from within his dire circumstances with a low bowed head, was able to call upon his Father above.

If and when I make it to Heaven,
It is my hope to see
Ole Ben Wilson
Convict #2219

copyWrite by Mark House
upDated 08.05.16

The year of 2017 will mark the 65th anniversary of Reverend William "Bill" Greason's breaking of Oklahoma's professional sports color barrier. As a fan and friend of this human treasure, I have respectfully requested celebratory consideration for his nomination and induction into Oklahoma's Sports Hall Of Fame for this upcoming anniversary year of 2017.

Recent expressions of support and reqeust for "favorable consideration of Bill Greason's candidacy for induction" has come directly from the top of the Pacific Coast Baseball League (PCL) and its president Mr. Branch Rickey, III. Mr Rickey has penned a personal letter of endorsement for Reverend Greason's induction into Oklahoma's Sports Hall Of Fame.

Within this personal letter, Mr. Rickey discerningly writes:

Oklahoma City YMCA Sports and Banquet Coordinator, Mrs. Breaux, looks on as barrier breaking Oklahoma City pitcher Bill Greason presents a trophy and words of encouragement to a young Bill Jones. Jones was a member of the YMCA Jr. Wrens baseball team in 1952.

Those unfamiliar with baseball history or have yet to see Harrison Ford masterly play the role of the original Branch Rickey in the movie "42" will more than likely not know Branch Rickey, III is "the" grandson of that original version. It was the historical and notorious Branch Rickey who culminated his strategic plan for Major League Baseball (MLB) integration when the legendary Jackie Robinson entered the field of play for the Brooklyn Dodgers on April 15, 1947.

Although certainly not on the same level and fields of baseball play, echoes of Reverend Greason's comparability to the civil rights impact of the great Jackie Robinson have resonated within local, state and national medias. The Daily Oklahoman's Berry Tramel, Oklahoma City publisher and civic leader Russell Perry and Turner Network Television's Ernie Johnson have referenced Bill Greason as being "the Jackie Robinson of Oklahoma." 

More recently, Mr. Larry Freedman, CEO and Owner of the Oklahoma City Dodgers baseball club shared, "It is my honor and pleasure, on behalf of the Oklahoma City Dodgers, to support the nomination of Reverend William "Bill" Greason to the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame. Our organization is proud to have previously honored the Reverend's breaking of the color barrier in Oklahoma as a member of the Oklahoma City Indians.

We strongly believe that it is fitting that over 60 years after this momentous event, the Reverend be recognized both for it and for the exemplary life he has led serving our country in World War II and serving within his community as a pastor. The Reverend has been a trailblazing athlete and his time in Oklahoma City would be appropriately recognized by the honor of admission to the Sports Hall of Fame."

Six years previous to Clara Luper's famous downtown Oklahoma City sit in and four years before the highly talented Prentice Gautt became the first black player to join the vaunted Oklahoma Sooners football squad, Reverend Greason, with his friendly smile and gracious manner, stepped on the mound for Oklahoma City and became Oklahoma's original civil rights and barrier breaking sports pioneer.

Officially signed on July, 28, 1952, by Oklahoma City's Texas League baseball club, William "Bill" Greason became the first black athlete to integrate and compete at the professional level for an Oklahoma sports team. Three days later, on July 31, 1952, Greason was victorious in his exciting debut appearance on the mound against the Shreveport Sports. Starting in ten late season games for the Oklahoma City, Greason compiled a 9-1 record with a team leading 2.14 earned run average (E.R.A.) and a team leading .900 won-loss percentage.

Former Daily Oklahoman columnist of the time, the late John Cronley, wrote "With speedy Bill Greason making an auspicious debut as the first Negro ever to wear an Oklahoma City uniform, the Warriors posted their second victory in a row over Shreveport here Thursday night."

Distinguished Los Angeles publicist Stan Rosenfield, a young witnessing fan of the time, proclaims "Bill Greason ignited our city and the crowds were huge every time he pitched!"

Prominent Oklahoma City attorney Kent Meyers, a 1952 batboy for the Indians, shared "He handled the situation with dignity, grace and class."

Veteran Daily Oklahoman columnist Jenni Carlson writes "Greason was a brave pioneer in the largely uncharted territory of integration."

Renowned Oklahoma City publisher and civic leader Russell Perry, a young fan of the time, shared "Jubilation as it was like Jackie Robinson was here!"

Acclaimed Daily Oklahoman columnist and baseball historian Berry Tramel recognizes Greason as "Oklahoma City's Jackie Robinson."

Former Birmingham Black Baron teammate, long time friend and MLB Hall Of Famer Willie Mays says, "If you are trying to decide if Bill Greason is the kind of man who should be honored, you don't need to think very hard. He was a groundbreaker in Oklahoma City, a World War II veteran honored for his service, a man of God, and a good friend to many. I recommend him for election to your Hall Of Fame. There is every reason to recognize his accomplishments, his character, and his service. I don't know why you wouldn't choose to honor him. I don't know a better choice or better man."

Greason not only ignited fan excitement and drove attendance levels to new heights, but he delivered big with those nine wins in 1952 for Oklahoma City's baseball club. Greason delivered another sixteen victories the following season before being acquired by St. Louis of the National League and becoming the first African-American pitcher for the Cardinals in 1954.

Born in Altanta, Georgia in 1924, William "Bill" Greason began his professional baseball career with the Nashville Black Vols of the Negro American League in 1947. He joined the Birmingham Black Barons the following year and, as a pitcher, won the only game for the 1948 Black Barons against the mighty Homestead Grays in what would become the last Negro League World Series.

Previous to his professional baseball career, Private First Class William "Bill" Greason, with the 4th Division's 34th Supply Depot, served our country as a United States Marine. A Marine that saluted the American flag from a blood stained beach on the island of Iwo Jima as it was raised in victory atop Mount Suribachi in 1945. Private Greason also served during the Korean conflict and has been awarded a United States Congressional Gold Medal of Honor for his barrier breaking military service with the Montford Point Marines.

At the age of 92, Reverend William "Bill" Greason continues a long term of ministry service (since 1969) as a pastor of Bethel Baptist Church and just recently retired as a professor at Birmingham Easonian Baptist Bible College in Birmingham, Alabama.

On behalf of what I consider a human treasure, a much overlooked and mostly forgotten constituent of Oklahoma's original civil rights and sports history, I, Mark House, respectfully nominate Reverend William "Bill" Greason for Oklahoma Sports Hall Of Fame induction consideration in the upcoming year of 2017.

Author Notes:

Information for this blogUmentary was researched and composed with confidence of accuracy. It is the hope of this author that the historical magnitude of Reverend William "Bill" Greason's pioneering civil rights impact integrated with his victorious contribution on Oklahoma's professional field of play would merit a well deserved, honorable and commemorative placement in the Oklahoma Sports Hall Of Fame.

Special thanks to Mr. Branch Rickey, III, President, Pacific Coast Baseball League, for his personal Hall Of Fame endorsement of Reverend Greason relative to a nomination and induction into Oklahoma's Sports Hall Of Fame.

Special thanks to Mr. Larry Freedman, CEO/Owner, Oklahoma City Dodgers, for his personal Hall Of Fame endorsement and offer of sponsor support relative to the nomination and induction of Reverend Greason.

Special thanks to the "Say Hey Kid," Willie Mays, for his personal Hall Of Fame endorsement of Reverend Greason, his lifetime friend and former Birmingham Black Baron teammate.

Special thanks to Mr. Ernie Johnson, Sportscaster and TV Host, Turner Network Television, for his personal interest and televised endorsement encouraging the consideration of Reverend Greason for induction into Oklahoma's Sports Hall Of Fame.

Special thanks to my friend Mr. Stan Rosenfield, Stan Rosenfield & Associates, Los Angeles, for taking extraordinary interest in this Hall Of Fame nomination and induction effort and for networking some most valuable access to some amazing people who make exceptional things happen.

Special thanks to Mr. Peter Guber, Chairman/CEO, Mandalay Entertainment Group, for his personal interest in the Hall Of Fame nomination and induction effort of Reverend William "Bill" Greason.

copyWrite By Mark House

Seems like it was about three years ago I was digging around in one of my standard old junk holes searching for the all illusive but mostly unanticipated treasure. Basically being prepared to find nothing and to be surprised to find something. Enjoying a good hunt and good conversation but both conducted with reserved optimism.

The old saying "one man's junk is another's treasure" can sometimes be true. In this case, I believe it is. Sometimes the hunt for the junk can be a treasure within itself. Sometimes it has to be. But, not this time!

After looking down and all around with no results, a random glance up and a wow factor hit me right in the face. Hanging high upon the wall, I discovered one of those old "yard longs" produced by photographic companies way back in the early 1900's. Classic old black and white photos, approximately three feet long, printed and framed to capture the historical essence a very cool window of  time.

Although worn, tattered and somewhat faded, this early 1900's iMage of an Oklahoma high school band has become a favorite piece within my personal collection.

The first thing to catch my eye was an old bass drum center photo with the beat of OHS on the front. Studying Oklahoma City history and mentally remembering the way OHS had been inscribed same as, I knew right away this iMage was relative to an early 20th Century Oklahoma City High School.

As with any old iMages such as this one, if you look at it long enough and close enough, curiosity will overtake your sensibilities as you begin to wonder who these people are and what it would be like to stand right there next to them in their window of time. You'll begin to wonder what their names are and who might actually be the leader of this magnificent band.

With such an aged photo, unless somebody took the time to write down personal identities on the back like a normal person should, we'll never know who these mystical musicians are. Treasure hunting frustration now sits in as no one was normal enough to take the time. How could they not know I would find this iMage near one eighty-six years later with a passionate desire to get acquainted with its inhabitants. Why could they have not just made my curious existence a bit easier by jotting down some names so I could relate to these pre-historic band members from the past? Did they not know me and about three other people would care to know?

After acquiring official ownership of this fabulous piece of Oklahoma City High School history, I hung it on the wall along with a daily reminder of the very small next to zero percentage chance that I would ever get to know these young gentlemen of refined music. I have been innovative enough at times and lucky enough at times to discover some personal identity with photos from this era. But, sad notes of hopelessness reign with the ancient beat of that old bass drum.

That is until about a two and a half years later! Another day and another dig in another junk hole and holy cheese! This has to be luck as I would not be smart enough to be on the lookout for old Oklahoma High School yearbooks. Or, would I?

Where else would there be a minimal chance to identify this unidentifiable and totally forgotten Oklahoma High School Band from such an antiquated era? It would be the only avenue with even the slightest possibility of success. I admit it was a slow, drawn out process but one that turned out to be well worth the effort.

After guessing and looking for yearbooks in the early 1920's for quite some time, I was glad to discover I was fooled a bit as darned if the leader of the band and these fine young gentlemen of music were destined to be found in a vintage 1929 high school yearbook. Such yearbook being an original possession of one Nathan Sherman, III. Couldn't find him within the yearbook but his name was stamped in gold right on the front cover.

After looking for early 1920's and for Oklahoma High School for so long, I was intrigued to conquer my quest in a 1929 Central High School yearbook. Historically, OHS was how the school had been recognized in a 1920 yearbook I had found while looking down the wrong alley of time. After the matter of facts, a quick glance at documented records indicate the school has been been recognized as Central High School since the architects drew it up on paper in 1909.

Interesting enough, I think the forward was specifically written for me and the chosen few others who discover this discovery to be interesting. I share as exactly written. "May this 1929 Annual serve to bridge the gap between the present and the dimming memory of future years, to recall eventful days and old friendships, and to renew within the Spirit and Ideals of old O.H.S." Not for sure how a "dimming memory of future years" works as it sound a bit twisted the wrong way. But, I think they were trying to tell me to revive their spirit at some future point in time. That time is now.

So much for the exciting discovery scenario of how we got here, let's meet these guys who cranked out some sounds back in 1929 for the Central High Cardinals. Being the photo was a yard long, it's understandable the yearbook staff had to break this iMage up into four pieces on two different pages of eighty-four and eighty-five. I'm guessing they knew it would make it simpler for me to share with you in this new modern day bloguMentary form if it was sectioned out properly.

First row, left to right: Clifford Vestal, Orvill Gausman, Farris Mock, Leo Gist, LeRoy Helsel, Harold Harrison, Edward Butler, Paul Williams. Second row: Earl Simpson, Clancy Thomas, George Katzung.

If curiosity can kill a cat, it can also kill a lot of time. But, the satisfaction of discovery seems to ease such cost most would consider a complete waste of time. Defeating the next to impossible challenge of historical discovery can be exciting. Doesn't matter if it is highly important subject matter such as United States politics, or, maybe just some simple fun stuff like this old iMage of a band from Oklahoma's past.

Every time I hear Fogelberg's "Leader Of The Band," I will have to think of one Paul Williams who was identified as drum major for the Central High School Band in 1929. What a pleasure it would have been to get to know Paul and see him lead this band in march and song. It certainly would have been a pleasurable experience to get to know all these guys in the band and to see them march and hear them play. It would be a priceless experience that brings one to consider appreciating the talents of our modern day bands to a much greater extent instead of taking such talents for granted.

Now, where there's a band, there's got to be game. I couldn't resist checking out the "athletics" section of this 1929 Central H.S. Cardinal yearbook while thumbing through it's vintage one-hundred-thirty-eight pages. Pages that capture some great moments in time and history relative to Oklahoma City and it's people. 

Looks like Central High's sports teams, moving towards the depression era, were in good shape and most competitive. Ruth Replogle was recognized as a "National" Golf Champion. Bill Johnson was named to the basketball "All-American" team. Making the All-State roster in basketball was John Soergel and Leon Bruner. Making the All-State roster in football was John Soergel and Charles Wilson.   

The men's basketball program won twenty-one and lost only four with their final defeat coming in the last game of the season against eventual 1929 national champions from Athens, Texas.

The 1928 Cardinals of the gridiron were recognized as a highly successful team in the '29 yearbook. They dominated several teams and concluded a victorious season with a record of 8-2-2. One of those losses came at the hands of the Oklahoma City University Goldbugs who, at the time, were becoming a national powerhouse on the collegiate level. Coach Virgil Jones considered it to be their "most successful season to date since his arrival at Central High School."