Oklahoma Historical Society Budget Request Highlights Preservation Needs
- mike33692
- 2 minutes ago
- 1 min read
Oklahoma Historical Society Budget Request Goes Before Lawmakers
The Oklahoma Historical Society budget request is drawing attention at the State Capitol as lawmakers review funding priorities for the upcoming fiscal year.
During recent budget hearings, Oklahoma Historical Society Executive Director Trait Thompson outlined the growing financial demands of preserving the state’s history. The agency oversees 24 museums and historic sites, along with extensive archives documenting Oklahoma’s past.
Thompson told legislators that rising costs are putting pressure on the agency’s ability to properly care for its collections.
Funding Needed to Preserve Oklahoma’s Historical Collections
A major portion of the Oklahoma Historical Society budget request focuses on the preservation and storage of nearly 2,000 works of art, historical documents, and artifacts.
According to the agency, current storage facilities are nearing capacity, and additional climate-controlled space is needed to ensure long-term preservation. Improper storage can lead to irreversible damage, particularly for paintings, photographs, textiles, and fragile documents.
The agency is seeking nearly $500,000 in additional funding to address these preservation challenges.
Oklahoma Museums and Archives Face Rising Costs
Beyond artwork storage, the Oklahoma Historical Society budget request reflects broader operational pressures.
The agency manages museums, research centers, historic homes, and an expanding online history portal used by educators, students, and researchers statewide. Officials say inflation, maintenance costs, and increased demand for digital access have significantly increased expenses.
Thompson emphasized that preserving Oklahoma’s history is not just about maintaining buildings, but ensuring future generations have access to accurate records and cultural resources.
Comments