On Saturday, June 13, 2026, the Friends of the Ferguson Home Museum held their annual Ferguson Tea in Watonga.  The theme this year was “Let’s Go to the Movies”.  /https://facebook.com/fergusonhomemuseum

Introductions, appreciations, and Ferguson entre into Movies

Following music by Vernon Brickman, Joe Bryan opened with prayer. He recognized Connie Burcham and Mary Larson for serving as President and Treasurer, respectively, for over 3 years and  Esther Arnold for serving as Vice President for 2 years.  Michelle Mendenhall, current President, introduced recently appointed officers Roy Espy as Vice President and Crystal Perez as Treasurer and new Site Director/Docent Kristen Lockart. 

Cimarron: The Novel, the 1931 and 1960 movies

Roy Espy gave a brief history of the Ferguson related movies, Cimarron, which were developed from Edna Ferber’s novel “Cimarron” based on the Fergusons.  The 1931 version won three academy awards, the first western to be so honored. https://fergusonhomemuseum.org/edna-ferber-cimarron-rko-studios-mgm-studios-academy-award-for-best-picture/

Culinary delicacies, Trivia and Costumes

There were various culinary delicacies aplenty along with tea and coffee. 

Children excelled at the movie  trivia contest and many  women paraded  movie-related costumes. 

Main speaker: Romona Tallbear

Romona Tallbear, the main speaker, told about Plains Collective native-American activities at the Ferguson and at the Cheese Festival.  She showed an excerpt from the 1970 movie “Little Big Man” to illustrate some aspects of Cheyenne-Arapaho culture. Chief Larry Roman Nose spoke about the blue and red blankets, remnants of cavalry uniform. 

Special Thanks to the organizing committee and benefactors

The Friends thank Michelle Mendenhall, Teresa Bryan, Connie Burcham and Espy for their planning and work.  And thank you to all who purchased $12 tickets, and especially those who became members of the Friends.