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Veterinary Display at the Oklahoma History Center
he Oklahoma Museum of History is housed at the Oklahoma History Center which opened across from the State Capitol in November 2005. The Oklahoma History Center is a 215,000 square foot, $59 million facility and is a division of the Oklahoma Historical Society. In addition to participating in and fully supporting the overall mission of the OHS to preserve and perpetuate the history of Oklahoma and its people by collecting, interpreting and disseminating knowledge of Oklahoma and the Southwest, the museum collects, preserves and interprets the complete history of Oklahoma for everyone. The museum fulfills its mission through the application of the highest standards of collections care, the presentation of diverse in-house and traveling exhibits, and multi-disciplinary educational programs. The Oklahoma Museum of History is also an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institute.
An agreement has been proposed between the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association and the Oklahoma Historical Society to create a veterinary display in the Oklahoma History Center. The display will be located within the farm and ranch exhibit and will consist of a graphic panel with text and photographs, a freestanding interactive kiosk, and a three-dimensional display case that will allow visitors to explore the history of veterinary medicine at their own pace
The Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Foundation has also agreed this project is worthwhile and will be an exciting opportunity to educate the public about the history, practice, and quality of veterinary medicine in Oklahoma. Many of the accomplishments of veterinary medicine have gone unnoticed or are being forgotten. It is important to demonstrate to the general public how the advances of veterinary medicine have affected their own lives. Dr. Richard Blake, Life member of OVMA, had a dream to make this display come true and he was working on the project when he died. Dr. Calvin White of Ada, has volunteered to Chair this project and is asking for support from the membership.
Why do we need a veterinary historical display?
It has been the concern of many that the rich veterinary history of Oklahoma has not been recorded for posterity. It is felt that veterinary-related memorabilia has been lost and there is little effort being made to collect and preserve this irreplaceable material. We have a wonderful opportunity to educate and promote veterinary medicine to the people of the state of Oklahoma. This is a once in a lifetime dream to preserve and tell the history and happenings of our profession from before statehood to the present.
What type of historical materials are being collected?
The OVMF is seeking veterinary artifacts such as photos, text books, record books, instruments, dental equipment (large and small animal), specula (large & small animal), old medical bags, glass syringes & metal hypodermic needles, old drug bottles (empty), etc. and literature. Such a collection will help to develop an appreciation of the progress that has been made in the animal health care delivery system during the past century. Veterinarians and/or Veterinary Technicians can also send stories about their experiences in their practice. At a later date, a traveling exhibit will be assembled which will be available to take around the State of Oklahoma to different communities, towns, and cities that can be used at fairs, libraries, convention centers, local veterinary meetings, etc.
To accomplish this fantastic opportunity, financial contributions and veterinary artifacts will be needed for this outstanding project. Total cost for the Kiosk, display case and traveling exhibit will be approximately $25,000.
Are contributions or donations tax deductible?
Yes, indeed they are. The Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Foundation was organized in 1992 as a non-profit corporation and any donation or contribution should be considered tax deductible.
Any donation amount will be accepted. Click here to download a pledge form, pledge online. As a thank you, for an minium $500 donation, donors will receive an invitation to a private reception and behind the scenes guided tour at the Oklahoma Aquarium (in Tulsa) and tickets to the OVMA Awards Dinner, January 26, 2008. Please take the time to make a donation to preserve our history. For convenience, a pledged amount can be extended over a period of months.
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