Pioneer Woman Museum looking for volunteers

The Pioneer Woman Museum’s director, Robbin Davis, recently put out a call for volunteers and student interns in an effort to broaden the museum’s reach.

The museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving and sharing the history of the pioneering women of Oklahoma.

The museum, under the direction of the Oklahoma Historical Society, recently underwent an extensive interior renovation. The 10,000-square-foot facility now houses two main galleries, a large area to store the inventory of more than 5,000 artifacts, an education classroom and an impressive gift shop that offers an abundance of items from tourist souvenirs to one-of-a-kind artwork.

“Since our reopening in the summer of 2013, we have been growing by leaps and bounds," Davis said. "We have come to a place that in order for us to continue our growth, we need help. We need volunteers and interns to help us with education programs, marketing and promotions and special events."

She said she needs extra hands in the collection area to catalog the items.

"We need a librarian to assist with our library and help us with research requests," Davis said. "We have people who contact the museum on a daily basis requesting specific bits of information about Oklahoma, about Ponca City or the general area. We are constantly fielding requests for research information.

"These are all great problems to have and we are delighted that the public is responding so positively to our renovation," she said. "The museum is busier than it’s ever been and we anticipate even more growth as we continue to increase the number of programs, events and exhibits that we bring to the museum."

The Pioneer Woman Statue is a huge draw and she has a global fan base, Davis said

"It’s a constant source of encouragement to know that travelers make the journey to see her in person. She is turning 85 on April 22 and she’s never looked better!”

Anyone interested in volunteering at the museum should contact Davis at [email protected] or call 580-765-6108. Volunteers should be at least 16 years old, friendly, enjoy working with others and have an interest in history. Previous volunteering experience is not required.