Pigeon Perfect Plan your visit to one of OKC’s most unique, free museums ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY ERIN PAGE Did you know OKC is home to The American Pigeon Museum? Now, you might ask what’s so exciting about the pigeon that there’s an entire museum dedicated to this bird? The short answer: plenty! I have heard about this unique museum for several years, and my crew left our first visit entirely delighted with our new knowledge about this feathered friend and even dreaming of what it might be like to raise and race our own flock. Read on to find out why!
LAUREN GÁNDARA (TOP LEFT) AND HER FAMILY OPERATE THE MUSEUM, ENSURING EACH VISITOR RECEIVES A PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCE.
The history The American Pigeon Museum & Library was originally formed in 1973, and throughout the years, the museum has collected historically significant items from pigeon fanciers and hobbyists. In 2014, the museum opened its current facility at 2300 NE 63rd Street to offer more space and security for the exhibits and collections. What to see The museum features several permanent exhibits, including a collection of live birds. Visitors can meet, pet and learn about 12 breeds of pigeons. (Don’t miss our favorite: Lady Gaga!) We also enjoyed learning about the differences between homing and fancy pigeons. Guests will also gain perspective about the important role pigeons have played in warfare. During the First and Second World Wars, pigeons were used to transport messages, and 32 pigeons received the Dickin Medal of Honor, which is the highest award any animal can receive while serving in military conflict. Plus, the museum features an entire room dedicated to the history of pigeon racing. QR codes are posted throughout the exhibits so visitors can pull up videos to enhance their experience (also a great way to keep techie kids engaged).
VIEW MEMORABILIA AND CAPSULES USED TO TRANSPORT MESSAGES DURING WARFARE.
38 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / SEPT-OCT 2023
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