The Friends of the Ferguson Home celebrated Thompson Benton (T.B.) Ferguson’s 169th Birthday on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at the Watonga City Hall.  Ferguson was born on Saint Patrick’s Day, so we often use an Irish theme, as we did this year.

Volunteers and Donations for birthday

Kerry Compton crafted the cake and Teresa Bryan, Connie Burcham and Janine Espy provided  and served the customary green punch along with coffee and tea.

Presentations in honor of Ferguson

Connie Burcham, President of the Friends of the Ferguson gave a brief history of the Fergusons arriving in Watonga. They established the Watonga Republican and served as governor/first Lady of the vast Oklahoma Territory from 1901-1906 https://fergusonhomemuseum.org/wp-admin/post.php?post=654&action=edit. Edna Ferber wrote “Cimarron” as a novel. RKO studios made and award winning movie movie of 1931 about the Fergusons https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edna_Ferber.

Plains Collective presentation at birthday celebration

Roy Espy informed about the collaboration with the Cheyenne-Arapaho Plains Collective and demonstrations of native American art and literature. https://www.facebook.com/fergusonhomemuseum

Painting of the Ferguson mansion

Todd Lafferty discussed the progress on painting in 2025/26 and the need for rebuilding the windows on the first floor of the south side. The foundation also needs evaluation.  There have been no leaks in the roof since the major storm of June of 2023.  As a City of Watonga property, the Friends hope the City will plan for maintenance and improvements for the 125-year-old building.

Activities of the Friends 2026

Joe Bryan prepared a 22 image presentation of activities of the Friends from Jan. 2025-Feb. 2026.  The images provided a backdrop for discussions of the educational/cultural activities of the Friends.

City Council Proclaims T. B. Ferguson Day

The four sitting City Council personnel Ryan Bruner, Roy Hampton, Howard Hursh, and Neal Riley and City Manager Leroy Alsup joined in a photo with Friends board members Joe Bryan, Connie Burcham and Todd Lafferty in showcasing the Proclamation of T. B. Ferguson Day.  Mayor Bruner read the Proclamation during the City Council meeting that followed.

City Council and Friends board celebrate proclamation