The final day in Oklahoma planning the October events for the Will Rogers Medallion Award program has been filled with inspiration, laughter, and gratitude. One of the greatest joys of this journey is meeting so many kind and warm people including authors, publishers, museum professionals, historians, and storytellers who are dedicated to preserving and celebrating the stories of the American West. Their passion for the written word and Western heritage is truly remarkable.
The guest list for the WRMA events in October continues to grow, and each new addition brings even more excitement for what promises to be a memorable celebration of Western literature, history, and storytelling. There’s something very special about seeing so many creative minds come together to honor the enduring spirit of the West and the legacy of Will Rogers.
It was also a treat to see my book displayed alongside titles written by and about Will Rogers at the gift shop at the Will Rogers Memorial Museum. Moments like that never lose their magic.
Tomorrow, it’s off to Deadwood to spend time with Rose Spiers, Jim Williams, and the other wonderful historians in the famous Western town. I’ll be giving presentations about the accomplishments of the brave women who helped settle the West and shape frontier history. More to come soon from the Black Hills.
