Located in Ponca City, Oklahoma, the Pioneer Woman Museum and Statue stands as a powerful tribute to the indomitable spirit of women who played a crucial role in the development of Oklahoma and the American West. This landmark honors women of all backgrounds, races, and nationalities, celebrating their enduring contributions and unwavering determination.
The Pioneer Woman Museum, dedicated on September 15, 1958, offers visitors a rich exploration into the lives and legacies of these pioneering women. Through engaging exhibits, craft demonstrations, and special collections, the museum brings to life the stories of women who shaped Oklahoma’s history. An interactive timeline and the Pioneer Woman Walk of Fame are among the key attractions, providing a comprehensive and inspiring experience for all ages. The museum proudly proclaims its dedication to the spirit of women – past, present, and future – who consistently overcome boundaries and achieve the extraordinary. For those seeking to delve deeper, the official website pioneerwomanmuseum.com provides additional resources and information.
Adjacent to the museum, the iconic Pioneer Woman statue commands attention. This breathtaking bronze sculpture depicts a young pioneer mother, clad in a sunbonnet, confidently leading her son forward. Her gaze is fixed on the southwestern horizon, embodying courage, resolve, and humility. A bible held firmly in her hand symbolizes her faith and moral strength. The sheer scale of the statue is impressive – standing seventeen feet tall and weighing twelve thousand pounds. Erected in 1930 at a cost of $300,000, it remains a powerful symbol of pioneer fortitude.
The creation of the Pioneer Woman monument was the vision of Ernest Whitworth Marland, a prominent oilman, philanthropist, and former Governor of Oklahoma. In 1926, Marland initiated a nationwide competition, inviting sculptors to submit designs. The submitted models were displayed across the country, capturing the public’s imagination and garnering over 750,000 votes. Bryant Baker, a London-born sculptor and Royal Academy of Arts graduate, emerged as the popular choice.
The unveiling ceremony on April 22, 1930, coincided with the anniversary of Oklahoma’s first land run and drew a crowd of 40,000 attendees. The event was further amplified by a radio address from then-President Herbert Hoover and a speech by Colonel Patrick J. Hurley, Secretary of War. Adding to the Oklahoma flavor, the beloved Will Rogers also delivered a memorable address.
Plan Your Visit to the Pioneer Woman Museum:
Address: 701 Monument Road, Ponca City, OK 74604
Contact: 580-765-6108 | [email protected]
Director: Jennifer Lynch
Museum Hours:
Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
(Please note closures for July 4–5, 2025, November 11, 2025, November 27–29, 2025, and December 24–25, 2025)
Admission:
| Category | Price |
|———————-|——-|
| Adults | $7 |
| Seniors (62+) | $5 |
| Students (6–18) | $4 |
| Family (up to 6) | $18 |
| Group Rate (10+) | $5/person |
| OHS Members, Children under 6, Veterans & Active Military (with ID) | Free |
Discover the inspiring stories and enduring legacy of the women who helped shape Oklahoma at the Pioneer Woman Museum and Statue – a truly enriching and memorable destination.
