The Great Plains Country
My first experience with Oklahoma was going out of my way to visit friends in Oklahoma City during Thanksgiving break. Ever since, I admire the mix of Native American, Southern, and Western cultures, and the landscape that's defining in a state often remembered for endless, flat land.
Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge
The View from Mount Scott
Mount Scott is the highest point of the Wichita Mountains, and drivable the entire way up. The summit offers sprawling vistas, and views of towns such as Altus, eighty miles away from this defining mountain of Oklahoma.
Christ at Holy City of the Wichitas
This location was built as the stage for the longest running Easter pageant in the United States. While it's best known for the passion play, it's open to the public year round.
The Parallel Forest
This patch of trees in Oklahoma was part of a U.S. government experiment to combat erosion during the devastating Dust Bowl of the 1930s. Since it has served its purpose, legends about the forest being haunted have arisen.
Kiowa Black Leggings Ceremony
An Introduction
The Kiowa Black Leggings Warrior Society, also known as the Ton-Gon-Kah, are a generational warrior organization to honor veterans. Their ranks comprise of veterans who served in conflicts ranging from the War on Terror to World War II.
I was invited to this ceremony by Kenny Harragarra, who I met during the 150th anniversary of the Red River War in Palo Duro Canyon State Park.
The Regalia
Black Leggings warriors wear a red cape to honor a Kiowa chief who killed a Mexican solider and wore his cape many generations ago. Often seen on their cape is the military insignia and medals from when they served, a unique blend of American and Native military traditions.
Women in Ceremonies
While only men are allowed in the warrior societies that are prevalent amongst Native American organizations across the country, women play a significant role in the ceremonies that honor them. From dancing, organizing, to playing music, they are essential for the mystique and awe that surround the ornate ceremonies.
