On Monday, January 13th, I went to The Chisholm Museum to gather information on a story I wanted to write about “The Governor Seay’s Mansion.” That same day I also met Christopher Mendez. Chris, as he goes by, is a collections specialist for the museum. This particular day he was my tour guide in the mansion. As we wandered from room to room discussing the different changes Chris answered all my questions. I’m sure I was drilling him for I have always been intrigued by the mansion and its history. Chris interned at the museum while attending UCO. After graduating with his bachelor’s in history and museum studies, he started working there. He is continuing his education to earn his master’s. Chris explained his parents came to the United States from Mexico becoming citizens during the Ronald Reagan era. Chris said they learned English by listening to classic country. Chris is one of four siblings. He said his parents stressed the importance of education. He talked about always having a deep love for history. He shared with me the sacrifices his parents made for him and his siblings. Chris mentioned visiting the construction sights where his dad worked. I found my own memories coming to mind of going to the laundry mat with my mom. She would buy two bottles of Coke out of the pop machine. One for me and giving a nickel to get the peanuts I’d slide into my coke. I’m sure she knew it would keep me busy! The other coke would be poured into the washing machine with my daddy’s greasers. I can still smell the oilfield and hear the sound of the pumping units backfiring while checking wells with my dad. Even though there are years between our journeys and of course different paths I realized Chris and I had one thing in common. Someone made sacrifices and overcame many challenges to get us to the moment we found ourselves sitting in a conference room surrounded by beautiful photos of the state we live in. As I left the museum that day I teased Chris about going back to his treasure hunting, I was a bit jealous! I also thanked him for the work he does to preserve our history so future generations will have it. The Chisholm will be hosting “ The Chuck Wagon Gathering” on March 29th, 10 am-2 pm. The activities are free. Enjoy the live music, cooking demos, food samples, gunfight shows, and more. Take a step back into history at 605 Zellers Avenue, Kingfisher Oklahoma. If you have questions go to thechisholm.org or call 405-375-5176. If you run into a young man named Chris talk some history with him and tell him I sent you!
Story and photos by Bonny Flesher.
