While attaining statehood in 1907 as our 46th state, the earliest appearances of Sousa and His Band took place in the Oklahoma territory in 1904 with concerts in Chickasha, El Reno, Enid, Guthrie, Muskogee, Oklahoma City, Perry, Reno City, and South McAlester. From 1911 through 1928, additional concerts took place in Ardmore, Bartlesville, Durant, McAlester, Okmulgee, Ponca City, Shawnee, and Tulsa. The state capital of Oklahoma City hosted the most Sousa Band concerts [13] from 1904-1928 performing at Overholster Opera House, The Coliseum, Oklahoma City HS, and The Shrine Auditorium.
Here’s a few artifacts related to Mr. Sousa’s time in the “Native American” or “Sooner State” on this, Oklahoma Day!
While in Tulsa, Mr. Sousa was given use of a band new 1929 Studebaker “President 8” which not only gave Mr. Sousa additional free press but also benefited the local car dealership for the loaner.
The U.S. portion of the 1910-1911 World Tour included concerts in Bartlesville, Muskogee, Oklahoma City, and Tulsa. Besides saving the program, this concert-goer also retained their ticket stubs as souvenirs
This band member’s route sheet from the 1919 season includes their swing through Oklahoma.
Prior to their appearances, these 4pp. mailing pamphlets advertising upcoming concerts were distributed to help get the word out that Sousa & His Band were coming to town. This dates from 1925 with matinee and evening concerts in Enid.
To help celebrate Mr. Sousa’s 50th anniversary as a conductor, these elaborate souvenir tour program booklets were available for purchase at every concert. This was from there appearance in Oklahoma City on October 15th, 1928.
The actual program presented in 1928 along with a newspaper clipping advertising the concert taking place at the Shrine Auditorium.
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