If you are in Tulsa, Oklahoma, one of the haunted places you should check out is the Gilcrease Museum. Founded in 1949 by oil tycoon Thomas Gilcrease as the “Smithsonian Institution of the American Southwest”, the museum boasts the nation’s largest collection of art showcasing the American West. In 1925, Tom traveled to Europe, and the trip ignited a passion for collecting fine art. Because he was a member of the Creek Nation, Tom decided to focus on art and objects that highlighted the rich history and culture of Native Americans. Eventually, his collection grew to over 250,000 artifacts, 100,000 rare documents and books, and 10,000 works of art. Tom was so obsessed with art that he neglected his other obligations. At one point, the City of Tulsa paid his $2.25 million debts to prevent him from ever needing to sell his collection. Later, Gilcrease donated his museum, land, and entire collection to the community. When he died in 1962, Gilcrease was interred in a mausoleum on museum grounds, close to his beloved art.
In keeping with his Native American heritage, great care was taken to ease Tom’s passage to the next world. Cornmeal was scattered to give his spirit food for the journey, and arrows were shot into the air to protect him from evil. But people now believe that Thomas Gilcrease could not bear to leave his life’s passion behind, even after death. According to local lore, his ghost has been seen in both the museum’s gardens and his former home, which is next to the museum grounds. Most often, his spirit is seen roaming exhibit hallways, perhaps looking upon his collection for all eternity? The frequent unexplained sights and sounds have reportedly even led to greater turnover among the museum’s security guards. Have you visited the Gilchrist Museum in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and witnessed or experienced any paranormal activity firsthand?
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