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The Oklahoma Semi-Centennial in Images

Tuesday, June 03, 2025

Oklahoma’s 50th anniversary in 1957 was a major, statewide celebration that spanned from April 22 to November 16, commemorating the starting dates of the first land run and Oklahoma statehood. Two years prior, Governor Raymond Gary formed a special commission to coordinate events across multiple regions. Counties hosted local gatherings like parades, traditional First Nations dances, and rodeos—all aimed at boosting tourism. Slogans like "Visit Oklahoma First" captured the celebration's spirit.

Joel McCrea sits on horseback at the Oklahoma Semi-Centennial.
Yvonne Chouteau poses in a promotional image provided by C.E. Chouteau, 1956.

Joel McCrea sits on horseback at the Oklahoma Semi-Centennial. Yvonne Chouteau poses in a promotional image provided by C.E. Chouteau, 1956.

Festivities kicked off in April with a parade through Guthrie. 1957 also saw the debut of The Oklahoman, a film starring Joel McCrea, who not only joined the parade but also the dedication ceremony for a 200-foot tower on state fairgrounds. Another notable guest and performer was Yvonne Chouteau, one of several Indigenous prima ballerinas known internationally as the "Five Moons." Celebrities like Lucille Ball and Mickey Rooney also made appearances.

Promotional items included a special Oklahoma tourism booklet
commemorative Semi-Centennial license plates

Promotional items included a special Oklahoma tourism booklet and commemorative Semi-Centennial license plates.

The main attraction was the Semi-Centennial Exposition in Oklahoma City, which ran continuously for nearly a month. Features included a full-scale replica of an oil-boom town, international exhibits, and science displays. State officials sealed a time capsule on July 7, 1957, containing artifacts and letters to be opened during the 2007 centennial.

Children pose next to a flyer for the exposition.
The commemorative tower lit up after its dedication (image courtesy of the Oklahoma Historical Society).

Children pose next to a flyer for the exposition. The commemorative tower lit up after its dedication (image courtesy of the Oklahoma Historical Society).

Thanks to the State Archives, a look back at this historic event is possible. With National Oklahoma Day coming up on June 7 plus, what better time could there be to celebrate our great state? And with the centennial anniversary of Route 66 in 2026 and the America250 celebration just around the corner, there's even more reason to reflect on Oklahoma's unique place in the story of our nation.

A black and white photo shows a vintage convertible car on a street, likely participating in a parade. The car has "Oklahoma's 50th Anniversary" painted on its side, along with "CAR" on the front fender and "1957" on the rear. Several men are visible in the car, possibly dignitaries, as a sign on the passenger side lists names: "Gov. Raymond Gary," "U.S. Sen. Robert S. Kerr," "U.S. Sen. Mike Monroney," and "Harry D. McParland." The car appears to be a Chevrolet, possibly from the mid-1950s, with prominent whitewall tires. In the background are houses and trees, suggesting a residential street.

Discover more images from this exciting moment in Oklahoma history in our digital collections. You'll find a state map, the Semi-Centennial Exposition program, and snapshots of celebrity guests like Patti Page and Buster Keaton!

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Last Modified on Jun 03, 2025