Thursday, August 21, 2008

Cement Museum and Jesse James Visitor Center



Many treasure hunters have passed through the town of Cement Oklahoma over the years. Frank James made his appearance a century ago in his quest to recover many of the caches of loot that he and Jesse buried decades before.

Frank recovered at least $6000 just east of town at a place the locals call Buzzard's Roost. It was here that Joe Hunter found the tea kettle that contained the watch, gold bar, coins, copper map, etc. If you haven't bought a copy of Steve Wilson's, Oklahoma Treasures and Treasure Tales I recommend it. It has a few stories about the area and goes into more depth than I will here on the blog.

The Cement area has attracted outlaws, Spaniards, native tribes, and traveling pioneers due to the natural landmarks, available water, and forage. Just north of town there was even a wagon train massacre which adds to the treasure lore.

In September of 2000 the Cement museum and Jesse James Visitor Center opened. While this might not be the Smithsonian, it is an interesting place to visit while you are in the area. There are many items and photographs donated by the townpeople. I try to donate a few things here and there when I come across something I feel would be fitting for display.

The museum is located towards the north end of main street across from the fire department. You will need to contact Monte Snider at the Central Drug Store located at 307 North Main. Monte is very knowledgeable about the local history and a great guy to visit with.

Since my in-laws are from Cement you might even catch me over there from time to time. Feel free to contact me anytime and if you have any questions about the Cement area e-mail and I'll try and answer the best I can.

2 comments:

Unknown said...

I just recently moved to "out in the middle of nowhere" and I can see Buzzards Roost from my drive. My grandsons are facinatec with Frank and Jesse stories (that's what my husband calls them BTW) and they play in the canyonon our 80 acres pretending to be the James boys. Just love to hear the stories about the treasures and local lore :)

Anonymous said...

The Central Drug Store is closed, and Monte Snyder lives north of Cyril. I do not know who you would contact to tour the museum. My suggestion would be to contact City Hall.