Press Release
June 19, 2024
Contact: Jessica Brogdon
Oklahoma Historical Society
Office: 405-522-0780
jessica.brogdon@history.ok.gov
www.okhistory.org
Film on Oklahoma State Capitol to Make Television Debut on June 27
OKLAHOMA CITY — A film on the Oklahoma State Capitol will make its television debut on OETA, Oklahoma’s statewide PBS station, on Thursday, June 27, at 7:30 p.m. The premiere will take place almost 107 years after the building’s construction was finished. “The People’s House: The Story of the Oklahoma State Capitol” was directed by Oklahoma native Bryan Beasley and produced with support from the Inasmuch Foundation and the Oklahoma Historical Society.
“The People’s House” gives viewers a glimpse into the House and Senate chambers, the Supreme Court, the Blue Room and more. The film shares the Capitol’s history, the building’s importance, the years-long restoration process and its resilience over the decades.
Interviewees include Trait Thompson, executive director of the OHS, former project manager for the Oklahoma Capitol Restoration project and author of “The Oklahoma State Capitol”; Dr. Bob Blackburn, former executive director of the OHS; former governors including George Nigh and Frank Keating; and Marilyn Luper Hildreth, daughter of civil rights leader Clara Luper. It is narrated by John Erling, a former Tulsa radio host inducted into the Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters’ Hall of Fame.
“I’m really proud of this film, and I believe all Oklahomans will have a new appreciation for our wonderful capitol after viewing it,” said Trait Thompson. “The story of the capitol and its recent restoration is told in a creative and compelling manner that will capture the attention of young and old alike.”
A four-minute trailer for “The People’s House” is available on YouTube. The trailer shows the entirety of the iconic drone footage of the Capitol that was captured for the film. The film will eventually be shown in the Oklahoma State Capitol Museum, located on the ground floor of the Capitol.
The Oklahoma State Capitol was constructed from 1914 to 1917 at a cost of $1.5 million. The building was designed by the architecture firm of Layton and Smith and constructed by James Stewart and Company. Although designed for a dome, it would not be added until 2002. The capitol underwent a major restoration from 2014-2022.
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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