The Pioneer Woman Site in Ponca City, Oklahoma, stands as a powerful tribute to the enduring legacy of women who shaped the American West. Comprising both the Pioneer Woman Museum and the iconic Pioneer Woman Statue, this historical landmark offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the stories of resilience, courage, and determination embodied by pioneer women of all backgrounds. Located at 701 Monument Road, the pioneer woman site is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to understand the vital role women played in the development of Oklahoma and beyond.
Exploring the Pioneer Woman Museum: A Legacy Preserved
Dedicated on September 15, 1958, the Pioneer Woman Museum serves as a central repository for the history of women in Oklahoma. This crucial part of the pioneer woman site meticulously preserves and showcases the contributions of women from diverse races, creeds, and nationalities to the state’s rich tapestry of development. Within the museum, visitors can engage with a variety of exhibits designed to educate and inspire. The education center enriches the experience with captivating craft demonstrations and rotating special exhibits that delve into specific aspects of women’s history. An interactive timeline provides a dynamic journey through the past, while the Pioneer Woman Walk of Fame honors the remarkable achievements of individual women. The museum’s core mission emphasizes the timeless spirit of women—past, present, and future—who have consistently defied limitations and broadened horizons. For more in-depth exploration, the official Pioneer Woman Museum website offers further resources and information.
The Majestic Pioneer Woman Statue: An Icon of Determination
The heart of the pioneer woman site is undoubtedly the Pioneer Woman statue itself. This awe-inspiring bronze sculpture depicts a young pioneer mother, shielded by a sunbonnet, confidently guiding her son forward. Her stance is resolute, head held high, eyes fixed on the southwestern horizon, embodying strength, beauty, and unwavering dignity. Courage and humility are etched in her features, with a bible held firmly in her hand, symbolizing faith and resilience. Towering at seventeen feet and weighing 12,000 pounds, this bronze cast was erected in 1930 at a significant cost of $300,000, a testament to its importance.
The creation of this monument was the vision of Ernest Whitworth Marland, an influential oilman, philanthropist, and former Governor of Oklahoma. In 1926, Marland initiated a competition inviting sculptors to submit designs. The models were then displayed nationally, engaging public opinion with an impressive 750,000 votes cast. Bryant Baker, a London-born sculptor who served in the US Army, won the popular vote with his compelling design.
The unveiling ceremony on April 22, 1930, marking the anniversary of Oklahoma’s first land run, drew a crowd of 40,000 people. Adding to the grandeur of the event, President Herbert Hoover delivered a radio address from Washington, DC, alongside Colonel Patrick J. Hurley, and Oklahoma’s beloved Will Rogers, further cementing the statue’s place in history and the significance of the pioneer woman site.
Plan Your Visit to the Pioneer Woman Site
To experience this remarkable pioneer woman site firsthand, plan your visit to:
Pioneer Woman Museum and Statue
701 Monument Road
Ponca City, OK 74604
580-765-6108
[email protected]
Director: Jennifer Lynch
Museum Hours:
Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
(Please note site closings for July 4–5, 2025, November 11, 2025, November 27–29, 2025, December 24–25, 2025)
Admission:
| Admission Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | $7 |
| Seniors (62+) | $5 |
| Students (6–18) | $4 |
| Family (up to 6 people) | $18 |
| Group Rate (10+ people) | $5/person |
| OHS Members, Children (under 6), Veterans and Active Military (with ID) | Free |
Please be aware that the use of drones over the Oklahoma Historical Society property, including the pioneer woman site, requires written approval from the facility director.
The Pioneer Woman Museum and Statue together form an essential pioneer woman site, offering a profound and educational experience. It serves as a lasting monument to the pioneering spirit of women and their indelible contribution to Oklahoma and the nation.
