Thank you to all who attended the Flag Day /Week ceremony on Saturday, June 17 at the Ferguson Home Museum. Veteran Doug Parker (U.S. Navy), Adjutant of the American Legion Post 125 of Watonga, Army veteran Roy Espy and Navy veteran Joe Bryan formed the honor guard. We presented the United States Emblem and the Oklahoma flag. Janine Espy sang a beautiful acapella version of the National Anthem. Doug Parker then led the attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Speaking of the flags, I noted in a previous posting that the American flag that flew during the time of the Fergusons would have had 46 stars in 1907 until the 47th and 48th states (New Mexico and Arizona) were added in 1912. The Oklahoma Flag of 1911 was a red flag with the number 46 until replaced with the present flag.
Connie Burcham, President of the Friends of the Ferguson Home read portions of the President’s Proclamation of Flag Day (June 14) and flag week (June 1017). She reminded us of the pledge to the Oklahoma Flag 'I salute the flag of the State of Oklahoma. Its symbols of peace unite all people.” This pledge was adopted by the Oklahoma Legislature in 1982.
Following light refreshments provided by several members, visitors toured the 1901 TB Ferguson Home, and learned about the 1883 jail and 1880s cavalry station.
Eighteen people attended including representatives from the Watonga Fire and Police departments, visitors from Alaska and a number of Watonga residents.
We look forward to Independence Day, July 4, when another ceremony is planned to celebrate our country’s Independence and 247 years of Freedom.
And thanks to all who helped remove the venerable old tree that was a casualty of the June 17 storm. Perhaps a new tree will be a sign of renewal at the Ferguson.