After nearly 30 years at its current downtown location, the Oklahoma Sports Heritage Museum will be merging with the Oklahoma Historical Center and shutting down operations in Guthrie.
The museum’s Board met last Thursday and voted to complete the merger, which will take place over the next one to two years, while logistical details are worked out and executed. While the Board members expressed their disappointment, all acknowledged that this was the correct move, a significant step towards ensuring the longevity and wider reach of Guthrie’s cherished sports memorabilia.
In discussing the merger, Board members shared their observations from a recent visit to the Oklahoma History Center, highlighting the center’s state-of-the-art preservation techniques and impressive archival capabilities. The Oklahoma Historical Center’s affiliation with the Smithsonian Institution and the National Archives cements its status as one of the nation’s premier historical
institutions.
Board members praised the center’s advanced systems for recording and storing artifacts, emphasizing the benefits for Guthrie’s collection. The facilities include cutting-edge equipment for digitizing and preserving historical items, ensuring their longevity and accessibility.
The merger promises numerous advantages for the Guthrie Sports Museum. The Oklahoma Historical Center has offered to create a dedicated gallery for Guthrie’s sports memorabilia, ensuring the collection remains intact and prominently displayed. Additionally, the merger will allow for the rotation of exhibits, preserving delicate items by limiting their exposure to light and environmental factors.
The board noted the potential for greater visibility and accessibility. The Oklahoma Historical Center’s extensive network of affiliated museums across the state means
Guthrie’s collection could reach a wider audience, enhancing its educational and cultural impact.
While the board unanimously supported the merger, they stressed the importance of maintaining community involvement and support during the transition. The museum will continue to operate in Guthrie until the merger is finalized, a process expected to take one to two years. During this period, the board will focus on fundraising efforts to sustain the museum’s operations.
Logistical aspects of the merger, including insurance coverage for the collection during the transition, were also discussed. The board emphasized the need to ensure the museum’s assets are adequately protected throughout the process.
In an emotional moment, several board members expressed their deep connection to the museum and its significance to the Guthrie community. They believe the merger is a crucial step to secure the museum’s future and honor the legacy of local sports heroes.