Piedmont History Museum(75)

PIEDMONT

Not too far from my home in Oklahoma City is the great little town of Piedmont. From the story I got from the awesome volunteer, Bob Link, the town was originally going to be called Mildred, probably after someone's female relative. But just before the town was officially recognized, someone had marked out Mildred and penciled in Piedmont. Apparently that didn't raise any eyebrows and the name change stuck. It's that kind of weird story that draws me to these historical museums that dot the Sooner state. You can read as many Oklahoma history books as you want, but some of the best stuff lies in the local lore. And Bob supplied plenty of Piedmont history for me. Sometimes it's great to have a chat with another history nerd like me.

The Piedmont History Museum is located in the town's former Bank, notice the mosaic tiles by the front door. They were able to get a historical marker to share the story of the building. It was the second brick building in town with the first being across the street where an antique store now calls home. The former bank lived a few different lives before it became the history museum. After the bank vacated, it was home to the Masonic Lodge and even The Anti-Horse Thief Association. That was a first for me to hear of an actual association to prevent and prosecute horse thieves. The two story building is pack full of great history from the area. Upstairs is a display of Piedmont in miniature form along with memorabilia from the school and various homes that residents donated. I loved it all.

If you happen to be traveling northwest of OKC, be sure to stop by Piedmont and thier great history museum. Bob may even lock your kids in the jail while you look around. HA! Don't worry, he keeps the key in his pocket. He also has some great stories that he'd love to share. There's only a short window of opportunity to see it so plan your Saturday around swinging by Piedmont. They also have an annual fundraising garage sale, so put that in your calander too!

401 NW 1st St, Piedmont, OK

405-830-1263

Entry Fee: Free

Hours: Saturday 10:00 - 2:00 https://piedmonthistoricalsociety.weebly.com