Driving along historic Route 66, one will find a small gem in the quaint community of Chandler. The Museum of Pioneer History is filled with Native American history and artifacts, works of local artists, and photo galleries filled with stories of early pioneers. It’s mission is quite simple:  preserve local history and educate future generations in shared heritage.

Founded in 1954, the museum moved into its permanent home at 719 Manvel in Chandler in 1966. The Lincoln County Historical Society, which oversees the Museum of Pioneer History, is currently fundraising for capital improvements for the Mascho Building including a new roof. A recent $1,500 grant from the Central Community Foundation will help the society reach its $75,000 goal. 

The Museum of Pioneer History is open Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. The museum displays artifacts from Lincoln County’s pioneer heritage when the county was opened by land run in 1891. Exhibits on Route 66 and the Turner Turnpike tell the rich history transportation has played in the county.  

Visit the museum’s website for more information at okpioneermuseum.org.

Grants from the Central Community Foundation are made possible by Central Rural Electric Cooperative members who round up their monthly electric bills to the nearest dollar. These funds are put into the foundation, which distributes them to individuals and organizations in need throughout Central’s seven-county service area.  The foundation has five fields of interest: healthcare, education, disaster relief, personal need and community purpose.