“Judge Parker’s Court” presentation by Dr. Aaron Mason

The Sod House Museum near Aline is excited to host a presentation titled “Judge Parker’s Court” on Saturday, August 17, at 10 a.m. It will be presented by Dr. Aaron Mason, professor of political science at Northwestern Oklahoma State University (NWOSU) in Alva.

Isaac C. Parker was appointed as judge of the US District Court at Fort Smith, Arkansas, in 1875. The court had jurisdiction over 11 western Arkansas counties and Indian Territory. Most people recognize Judge Parker as the enforcer of law for Indian Territory, but his court played an additional role in Oklahoma history. Mason will explain the background, importance, and long-term significance of the US District Court at Fort Smith. Judge Parker’s court was created by Congress and operated during the last half of the nineteenth century. His court presided over Indian Territory and was instrumental in the events leading to the creation of the state of Oklahoma.

Dr. Aaron Mason currently serves as professor of political science at NWOSU in Alva. He received his doctorate from Northern Arizona University in 2006. He has published articles on American Indian tribal governments and their interaction with state governments, as well as issues dealing with the founding fathers and the U.S. Constitution. He serves as the co-executive director of the NWOSU Institute for Citizenship Studies. Mason has also taught and conducted research at universities in Texas and Arizona.

The Sod House Museum is located southeast of Aline on State Highway 8. For more information please contact Director Renee Trindle at 580-463-2441.