Our History
In 1899, the Territorial Legislature of the future state of Oklahoma mandated the founding of a natural history museum on the campus of the University of the Territory of Oklahoma in Norman, now The University of Oklahoma. Since that time, the museum has had a long and distinguished history, including being designated as the Oklahoma Museum of Natural History in 1987 by the Oklahoma Legislature and receiving the state’s first National Medal in 2014 awarded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
Curators and staff of the museum conduct scientific investigations to preserve and develop a greater understanding and appreciation of natural resources and human cultural heritage. They develop exhibitions and conduct educational programs for all ages that illustrate, interpret and explain the natural history of the state and region to bring a greater understanding of our world to the people of Oklahoma and others.
On May 1, 2000, the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History opened its doors to a new 198,000 square foot facility housing 12 collections, labs, libraries, offices and exhibit space. Today, the treasure chest design of the building’s architecture houses more than 10 million objects that belong to the people of the state of Oklahoma. Over 4 billion years of Oklahoma’s natural history are featured in thousands of artifacts from the collections on display in 50,000 feet of public galleries. Visitors can immerse themselves in the fascinating natural and cultural history of Oklahoma.
Our Mission
The Sam Noble Museum at The University of Oklahoma inspires minds to understand the world through collection-based research, interpretation and education.
Our Vision
As one of the finest museums, we are at the heart of our community, collectively working to inspire understanding, appreciation and stewardship of the earth and its peoples.
Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma:
The University of Oklahoma, fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere.
Board of Visitors
|
Active Board Members: |
||
| Reggie Whitten (Chair) | Edmond, Oklahoma | |
| Brenda Jones Barwick | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma | |
| Ryan Deligans | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma | |
| Becky Franklin | Norman, Oklahoma | |
| J. Ross Kirtley | Mustang, Oklahoma | |
| Brad Mallett | Durant, Oklahoma | |
| Tim Munson | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma | |
| David Nimmo | Norman, Oklahoma | |
| Lars Noble | Tulsa, Oklahoma | |
| Becky Samples | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma | |
| Joseph Siano, Ph.D. | Norman, Oklahoma | |
| Carolyn Taylor, Ph.D. | Claremore, Oklahoma | |
| Zane Z. Woods | Yukon, Oklahoma | |
| Ex-Officio: | ||
| Daniel C. Swan, PhD | Norman, Oklahoma |
Land Acknowledgement Statement
Long before the University of Oklahoma was established, the land on which the University now resides was the traditional home of the “Hasinais” Caddo Nation and “Kirikirʔi:s” Wichita & Affiliated Tribes.
We acknowledge this territory once also served as a hunting ground, trade exchange point, and migration route for the Apache, Comanche, Kiowa and Osage nations.
Today, 39 tribal nations dwell in the state of Oklahoma as a result of settler and colonial policies that were designed to assimilate Native people.
The University of Oklahoma recognizes the historical connection our university has with its Indigenous community. We acknowledge, honor and respect the diverse Indigenous peoples connected to this land. We fully recognize, support and advocate for the sovereign rights of all of Oklahoma’s 39 tribal nations. This acknowledgement is aligned with our university’s core value of creating a diverse and inclusive community. It is an institutional responsibility to recognize and acknowledge the people, culture and history that make up our entire OU Community.
Support the Sam Noble Museum
Are you interested in supporting the museum? By donating to the museum, you will help us continue to inspire minds to understand the world through collection-based research, interpretation, and education. Any dollar amount can help your museum continue to serve the people of Oklahoma.
Review the following areas to see where your donation can make a difference:
- Donate to the Museum’s General Operations Fund: This fund supports the day-to-day operations, programs, and special projects at the museum.
- Donate to the Museum’s Excellence Endowment: This endowed fund is used to support museum operations and special opportunities that will assure the continued excellence of the museum.
