Civil War books given to RSU Library
Historic
materials Alan Lawless (left), Rogers State University Stratton Taylor Library director, prepares to move books on the Civil War era from Will Rogers Memorial Museum Library to the college. Steve Gragert, chief archivist at the Museum in Claremore hands over the first volumes. In the Museum library for many years, Museums Director Michelle Lefebvre-Carter and Gragert said they will “have stronger use at the college where they will be readily available.” |
CLAREMORE — Will Rogers Museums has turned volumes of historical materials on the Civil War to the Rogers State University Stratton Taylor library. Movement of the 69 books devoted to “War of the Rebellion: Official Records of the Union and Confederate Army “ were moved to the college library.
“Having them readily available for research and study will allow stronger use of the books which have been part of the Will Rogers Museums Library since the days of administration of Paula Love, grand-niece of Will Rogers, and her husband, Robert, a Civil War history buff,” said Michelle Lefebvre-Carter, museums director.
Will Rogers’ father, Clement Vann Rogers fought with the Confederacy as a calvary captain and scout under Gen. Stan Watie. While little is known of Rogers’ war record, Watie led the last Confederate unit to surrender in June 1865.
Clem and Mary America Schrimsher Rogers were pioneer settlers in the Cooweescoowee District of Indian Territory, where moved after their marriage in 1858. Three years later their lives were interrupted by the Civil War.
A war refugee while her husband fought, Mary Rogers fled horseback with a babe in arms, eventually to Bonham, Texas. Elizabeth, the firstborn died in 1861 near the present site of Westville, at her grandmother’s home. Sallie, who was 16 years older than Will, was born Dec. 16, 1863 in Bonham, where he mother sought refuge.