The information shared here is to provide our readers with the facts regarding the proposed renaming of the Pioneer Woman Museum. It is an email written by PWM Director Jennifer Lynch for distribution to recipients across Oklahoma.
This email was forwarded to Staff Writer Carey Head by its original recipient. This recipient asked to remain anonymous to stay out of the renaming fray. We have redacted the references to this recipient to honor their wish.
Of special interest is the date of the email and the stated decision makers, namely the Oklahoma Historical Society, as well as the proposed timeline of the changes.
Whether this is merely a public relations snafu or a rather large chip into the PWM supporters’ trust, we leave it to you to draw a conclusion.
— Carey Head
STORY UPDATE (3/5/2024)
In regards to the July 8, 2023 email, Ponca City Monthly reached out to both the Oklahoma Historical Society and Jennifer Lynch, Pioneer Woman Museum Director for comment. The OHS responded to our request with the following:
"As originally stated, the Oklahoma Historical Society has not made any official decisions regarding the possible change to the mission and branding of the Pioneer Woman Museum in Ponca City. All discussions are still in the preliminary stage. Any decision would be made during a public meeting of the OHS Board of Directors."
— Oklahoma Historical Society
Jennifer Lynch was unavailable for comment as OHS directed all questions to the Communications office.
