Museum of Pioneer History, Lincolnuseum - Chandler, Oklahoma

Here's an enhanced overview of the Lincoln County Museum of Pioneer History (also called the Museum of Pioneer History or Lincoln County Historical Society) in Chandler, Oklahoma:

Overview & Location

• Address: 717–719 Manvel Ave, Chandler, OK 74834.

• Setting: Housed in the historic Mascho‑Murphy Building, constructed in 1897–98—a highly intact Romanesque commercial structure listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

• The museum occupies three adjoining century-old buildings, including the Olson‑Crain annex (converted in 2004), offering extensive exhibition space.

What’s Inside

• Local Heritage
  Explores county-wide photographs and artifacts dating back to before the 1891 Land Run.
• Art and Murals
  Features original murals by Frederick A. Olds that depict key moments in Lincoln County history, along with rotating exhibitions by local artists.
• Native American History & Artifacts
  Showcases items and photographs from the Sac and Fox Nation and other tribes associated with Lincoln County.
• Bill Tilghman Exhibit
  Highlights memorabilia from Marshal William “Bill” Tilghman, including memorabilia related to his film Passing of the Oklahoma Outlaw.
• Printing and Publishing Collection
  Displays historic newspapers, a Linotype machine, antique printing press, and early photographic equipment.
• Cyclone of March 31, 1897
  Presents storyboards and photographs chronicling the devastating tornado and the town’s recovery.
• Children’s Resource Center
  Offers marionette shows led by a professional puppeteer, complemented by guided tours in period costume.
• Lena Sawner Schoolroom Exhibit
  Replicates a circa-1902 schoolroom, honoring educator Lena Sawner and providing a nostalgic lesson space.
• Military and Genealogy
  The Hall of Heroes honors local veterans, while genealogy resources include microfilm and archival records.
• Apartment Exhibit
  Recreates a typical early-20th-century urban apartment, illustrating everyday life with vintage furnishings and appliances.
• Medical/Dental Office Exhibit
  Reveals the state of early-1900s healthcare through authentic office recreations .
• Quilt Room
  Displays handmade quilts from pioneer-era residents—intricate, functional art works.
• Roads & Highways History
  Dedicated space for Route 66 and the Turner Turnpike, highlighting their impact on county development.
• Agriculture Exhibit
  Features farming tools and displays representing cotton, wheat, pecans, dairy, and timber industries.
• Gift Shop
  Sells historical books, local crafts, Route 66 memorabilia, candles, maps, T‑shirts, and more.
• Rotating Exhibit Room
  Hosts themed rotating displays—past topics include Coca‑Cola, depression glass, vintage tools, and holiday decor.
• Discovery Garden
  A peaceful outdoor space dedicated in 2006, ideal for relaxation and family visits.
• Historic Outhouse
  Chandler’s sole remaining brick outhouse from around 1910, preserved behind the museum.

The Lincoln County Museum of Pioneer History is a captivating heritage hub that encapsulates the story of Chandler, Lincoln County, and Oklahoma pioneers. Whether you're a history buff, genealogy researcher, family traveler, or a Route 66 road-tripper, this museum provides a thoughtful, engaging, and deeply local narrative experience—not to be missed during your visit to Chandler!