Licking History Club trip to Boot Hill Museum and OKC Memorial
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From left, Taylor Hicks, Calyn Huff, Kara Williams, Paige Kilby, Noah Coffey (front), Dawson Havens, Zoe Mesger and December Maxey at the Survivor Tree at the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum.
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From left, Mr. Justin Coffey, Taylor Hicks, Dawson Havens, December Maxey, Calyn Huff, Kara Williams, Noah Coffey (front), Paige Kilby and Zoe Mesger at the 9:01 Monument where the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building had stood.
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From left, Taylor Hicks, Dawson Havens, Zoe Mesger, December Maxey, Kara Williams, Noah Coffey (front), Paige Kilby and Calyn Huff are dwarfed by a steam locomotive.
By Justin Coffey
LHS History Club students embarked on a profound journey through American history as they visited the Boot Hill Museum and Sante Fe Trail Tracks in Dodge City, Kansas, followed by the Trail West and Oklahoma History Museum as well as the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum. The trip offered a unique perspective on pivotal moments in the nation’s past.
Students were able to dive into the storied past of the American West at the Boot Hill Museum. From authentic artifacts to lively reenactments, including a motorized floor to simulate standing in a buffalo stampede and a recreation of main street in an old western town, they gained a firsthand understanding of frontier life and justice.
At the Trail West Museum, students were immersed in the stories of settlers, explorers, and Native Americans who shaped the landscape and culture of the American West. They explored interactive exhibits showcasing the tools, clothing, and daily life of frontier inhabitants, gaining a deeper appreciation for the resilience and ingenuity of those who braved the unknown.
The visit to the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum provided a solemn reminder of the tragedy of the ’95 bombing. As the students stood before the memorial, they were moved by the stories of those who lost their lives and the resilience of the community. From the poignant tribute of the Field of Empty Chairs to the remnants of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, the memorial served as a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. As the students returned home, they carried with them a deeper appreciation for the complexities of American history and the importance of preserving our heritage for future generations.
These trips are invaluable in helping students connect with history on a personal level. It’s about more than just dates and facts; it’s about understanding the human experience. A trip like this is not possible without the efforts and support of so many, so a big thanks needs to go out to parents for letting your students take part in an experience they will never forget. Our parent volunteers/chaperones, Jamie Maxey and Tiffany Mesger, thank you for volunteering your time and giving students rides to and from all of our many stops. Also a big thank you to the Licking School District, Hammond Feed, Greg Green, Phoenix Pawn, Friend Lumber, Fast and Friendly, Progressive Bank, Country Cross Roads Custom Cabinetry, Hawn Law Office, Green’s Realty, Paul Hood, Sherry Underwood Bookkeeping and David Hicks. These trips are vital for kids to truly grasp our history. It’s more than just reading; it’s about experiencing and letting it shape us.
