Press Release
March 22, 2023
Contact: Chantry Banks
Preservation Oklahoma, Inc.
Office: 405-525-5325
director@preservationok.org
www.preservationok.org
Overholser Mansion to Host Presentation on Oklahoma’s Tiniest Jails
OKLAHOMA CITY — On Friday, March 24, from 6-8 p.m., Preservation Oklahoma, Inc. will continue its “History and Hops” series with a presentation on Oklahoma’s tiniest jails called calabooses.
The word calaboose takes its origins from the Spanish word for dungeons. In areas around the state, these small one-room holding cells were constructed to temporarily hold prisoners awaiting transport to county jails or larger cities.
Matt Pearce and Mike Mayes with the State Historic Preservation Office will explore the history of jails and law enforcement during the territorial period and early statehood. They will discuss their ongoing survey work of tiny jails found across the state, the National Register of Historic Places and how others can get involved in documenting and preserving these buildings.
The program is free for Preservation Oklahoma members. It is $5 for nonmembers. Members and nonmembers can register online. The event will take place in the Carriage House of the Henry and Anna Overholser Mansion located at 405 NW 15th St. in the historic Heritage Hills neighborhood of Oklahoma City.
The “History and Hops” series is a way to learn about the historic buildings and architecture of Oklahoma while enjoying a local brew. Beer, water and light snacks will be available.
The event is presented by Preservation Oklahoma, Inc. It is the state’s only private, nonprofit membership organization that is dedicated to promoting, supporting and coordinating historic preservation activities throughout the state. To learn more about Preservation Oklahoma, please visit www.preservationok.org.
The Henry and Anna Overholser Mansion is an affiliate of the Oklahoma Historical Society. The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people. Founded in 1893 by members of the Territorial Press Association, the OHS maintains museums, historic sites and affiliates across the state. Through its research archives, exhibits, educational programs and publications the OHS chronicles the rich history of Oklahoma. For more information about the OHS, please visit www.okhistory.org.
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Editor’s Note: Photos of the Henry and Anna Overholser Mansion are available upon request.
