Blackwell Museum Welcomes ‘Spirit’ the Buffalo as Renovations Continue

The Blackwell Museum has a new four-legged addition—and he’s already making quite the impression.

Meet Spirit, the museum’s newest exhibit and its very first buffalo. The name “Spirit” was chosen from numerous suggestions submitted by members of the community, reflecting the strong local connection to the project.

While Spirit waits for his permanent indoor placement, he remains protected from the elements and sunlight. To further preserve Spirit and other exhibits, museum staff are replacing and tinting several windows to guard against UV damage.

Spirit’s new custom-built enclosure is already in place, thanks to the volunteer craftsmanship of Larry McChristian. In addition to Spirit’s enclosure, McChristian designed and built the elegant curved wall that now serves as the backdrop for a new mural installation.

The mural itself—along with a whimsical “monkey” wallpaper adorning the museum’s Clubroom—was installed by volunteer Wendy Evans, whose attention to detail has helped breathe new life into several museum displays.

Renovation work continues in the Grand Room, where the camera exhibit is nearing completion. Plans are also underway for two new displays: one showcasing the Oklahoma Land Run and another recreating a turn-of-the-century home. According to museum staff, only about 15 display sections remain before the room’s transformation is complete.

Leading the charge on these improvements is Museum Director Melissa Hudson, who—alongside her husband JWayne—is instrumental in not just managing the museum, but also in hands-on construction, painting, and overall design.

Visitors are encouraged to stop by and see the progress firsthand—and give Spirit a warm Blackwell welcome.