There Are 3 Must-See Historic Landmarks In The Charming Town Of Ponca City, Oklahoma
By Will Suphan|Published October 18, 2022
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Will Suphan
Author
Will has been living in Arizona off and on for 30+ years in the Phoenix Metro and Tucson areas. He has traveled all over the state as well as having lived all over the Southwest. He's been writing for OnlyInYourState for one year and has previously written for Digital Journal. Will has a passion for travel and writing and combining the two is what he loves most. He loves solo international travel and has been to Thailand, France, Japan, and Cambodia.
Sometimes it’s the smaller, hidden away places that pack a surprising amount of history. Ponca City, Oklahoma, is one such town. From pioneers to oil magnates to Native American leaders, this little town’s historic landmarks show history from multiple angles.
Ponca City was named after the Ponca Nation whose chief was Standing Bear, the first Native American civil rights leader who lived in this area. In 1879 he spoke before the U.S. District Court and won the right of habeas corpus for all Native Americans, stating that they are "persons within the meaning of the law".
A committee was formed here in 1993 for Native American historical and cultural education and was represented by six local tribes; Kaw, Osage, Otoe-Missouria, Pawnee, Ponca, and Tonkawa.
Chief Standing Bear is honored here. His speech to the court included these words: “My hand is not the color of yours, but if I pierce my hand, I shall feel pain and if you pierce yours, you too shall feel pain and the blood that flows from mine will be the same color as yours. I am a man. The same God made us both.”
The Pioneer Woman Statue and Museum celebrates the strong spirit of women from the pioneer days until today. The actual name of the statue is "Confident." The plaque reads "In appreciation of the heroic character of the women who braved the dangers and endured the hardships incident to the daily life of the pioneer and homesteader in this country.”
The museum was opened in 1958 and celebrates Oklahoma women who pioneered several different fields. The phrase "I See No Boundaries" is a common theme. On display are many artifacts used during the pioneer days.
This exhibit shows how a pioneer kitchen would have looked. Cast iron pans and stove with hewn wood furniture. The pioneers would bring what they could on the wagons but would have to handcraft whatever they couldn't bring. If they were fortunate, they might have a general store a day or two away.
E.W. Marland built an oil empire in Ponca City after moving there in 1908. He then became a U.S. Congressman. It is 16,500 sq ft and includes the first indoor swimming pool in Oklahoma.
There are far too many rooms to mention, however, this ornate dining room is just one of many such dining rooms in this mansion. Every one of them is sheer elegance. One wonders what conversations may have been held here.
This marble arched hallway with painted frescoes is reminiscent of ancient Rome. This mansion was one of the first to have an automatic dishwasher and a central vacuuming system. There was nothing that Mr. Marland couldn't afford.
The Standing Bear Museum has a vast array of exhibits showing Native American arts and culture and is truly a sight to behold. The Pioneer Woman Statue and Museum is a must for anyone passionate about the history of American women and their contributions to this country. Marland’s Grand Home is a mind-boggling display of sheer wealth.
Historical landmarks aren’t the only things in Ponca City. Be sure to drive around to see many breathtaking sights, as there is much natural beauty to bask in. Then, eat one of the best steaks you’ve ever had at the Rusty Barrel Supper Club. If you’ve been to Ponca City, let us know your thoughts and experiences!
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