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PRESENTS

Smithsonian Institution's

"Crossroads: Change in Rural America."  Exhibit in 2022

PAWNEE SELECTED TO HOST SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION TRAVELING EXHIBIT ABOUT RURAL AMERICA
The City of Pawnee will host national exhibit in 2022

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PAWNEE, OK. January 18. 2021- Oklahoma Humanities in cooperation with The Smithsonian Institution has chosen Pawnee, Okla. as home for a new exhibit “Crossroads: Change in Rural America”. “Crossroads” will tour the state from September 2021 through June 2022.  Along with Pawnee, there will be five other stops in Oklahoma including Tishomingo, Ft. Gibson, Nowata, Woodward and Boley.

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According to Pawnee Chamber of Commerce manager Joyce Freeman, Pawnee will share its unique history and culture featuring themes of rural identity, community, land, perseverance and managing change.  Complementary programs and events will be held in town coinciding with the Smithsonian exhibit. Many of our community organizations have expressed a willingness to be involved in every aspect.

Mrs. Freeman was quoted as saying “We are going to rely on volunteers to make this one of the biggest events ever held in Pawnee’s rich 127-year history.  We are looking forward to working with various community groups and individuals during this once in a life time opportunity.”  If you would like to volunteer to help with the exhibit, please contact the Chamber office at 918-762-2108.

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“Crossroads” will tour Oklahoma from September 2021 through June 2022 and will be in Pawnee April and May of 2022.  Pawnee Bill Ranch and Museum has graciously volunteered to host this exhibit.

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Ronnie Brown, Manager of the Pawnee Bill Ranch and Museum, said “We are thrilled to be one of only 6 sites hosting this wonderful event as it tours our great state.  Pawnee and its surrounding communities are in for a very special treat.  Hats off to the Pawnee Chamber of Commerce and other co-sponsors, along with the support from team leaders Joyce Freeman and Pam Ferguson, for helping Pawnee and the Ranch Site’s being selected.  I can’t wait for this Smithsonian quality exhibit to arrive and fill Pawnee Bill’s historic big barn with its unique wonderful displays.”

“Crossroads: Change in Rural America” has been made possible in Pawnee by Oklahoma Humanities.  It is part of Museum on Main Street, a collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution and State Humanities councils nationwide.  Support for Museum on Main Street has been provided by the United States Congress.