Families in Kingfisher and surrounding communities will soon be able to search for loved ones honored on the Centennial Wall, thanks to the collaboration of the Chamber of Commerce, the County Commissioner’s office and a group of students at Chisholm Trail Technology Center.
It all began when a pair of sisters wanted to find their parents names’ on the wall. After searching on their own for some time, they requested help from the city. When no database could be found, Shauna Rupp from the Chamber of Commerce had an idea.
“I wonder if CTTC could help us with this project!” said Rupp.
Rupp reached out to Commissioner Sparks’ office and setup a videocall about the project with CTTC Multimedia and Business Instructor, Sarah Edsall.
Eager to help, Mrs. Edsall, assembled a team of students, including team lead Brooke Barton (Kingfisher High School graduate) and Miranda Borelli (Dover junior and resident of Kingfisher) who specialize in advanced spreadsheets, and graphic designer Serenity Lasiter (Watonga High School senior).
While working through the data, one student unexpectedly said aloud to the class, “Wait- I think that is my dad!” She was right, Borelli located not only her father’s name, but several family members who were honored on the wall. In an instant, the project and its importance came to life.
“I was surprised to see so many family members,” said Borelli. “It’s neat to think this will help other families know who is on the wall too.”
Students carefully entered nearly 2,000 names of individuals and businesses into the new database, organized by their position on the wall, and sorted the list alphabetically by last, then first name. Then, Lasiter created a map key that is accurately labeled and easy to use.
“It’s my goal to train students to be successful in life and work,” said Mrs. Edsall. “That means translating their technical skills not only into paychecks, but also purpose-driven work in their communities.”
Rupp shared her thankfulness for the students’ work, saying, “Working with the CTTC Multimedia and Business program has been a tremendous asset to this project’s success.”
The plaque at the center of the wall reads “Dedicated the 22nd day of April, 1989, To The Pioneers who made the Run and settled this Area And to everyone who has lived here or been associated with Kingfisher County during the ensuing 100 years. Kingfisher Chamber of Commerce. Contractor: Michael Phillips.”
The database will be available online for public use this Spring. You can find printed directories at the County Clerk’s office and at the Kingfisher Chamber of Commerce.
Photos provided.
