Movie industry group makes gift to Will Rogers Memorial

 

Funding from an organization, which has its roots to soon after the death of Will Rogers, will make it possible for work to continue on projects to digitize “The Writings of Will Rogers” and to transform exhibits at the Will Rogers Memorial Museums.

A $30,000 gift from the Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Foundation will assist in the “Writings” project, which started about two years ago.

The Foundation’s gift is a continuation of the important support of the Museums’ goal and mission to “collect, edit, and preserve the life, wisdom, and humor of Will Rogers for all generations,” said Steve Gragert, Will Rogers Museums executive director.

“We greatly treasure our partnership with the Foundation in perpetuating the life and legacy of Will Rogers.”

He said the gift would also “further the opportunity to collaborate with the Will Rogers Ranch Foundation in California to build awareness of our favorite American.”

The Foundation has helped the Claremore museum in many ways including publication of writings, equipment and education, adding items to the collection, and acquiring some of Will Rogers’ Fox films, now available on DVD.

“It is our pleasure to partner with the Will Rogers Memorial Museums and help perpetuate the memory of one of the greatest Americans to ever live. The project to collect, edit, and preserve the life, wisdom and humor of Will Rogers for all generations is a must, regardless of economic condition,” said Todd Vradenburg, WRMPP Foundation executive director.

Vradenburg has made several visits to Claremore, the latest during 2008 Will Rogers Days when he participated in the launching of the Charles Banks Wilson art exhibit and celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Will Rogers Memorial.

He accompanied Will Rogers’ grandson, Kem; Kem’s daughter, Jennifer; and Wyatt McCrea, grandson of Joel McCrea, to a showing of “Lightnin'” at the Circle Cinema in Tulsa. He helped make arrangements for showing the film in which Wyatt’s grandfather had a role.

Pioneers host an annual recognition dinner and fund-raiser that draws well-known motion picture names who raise millions to support the Foundation programs. Funds are also raised through various benefactors and through moviegoers’ purchase of special combo packs at concession stands after seeing the Will Rogers Institute movie trailer at local movie theaters.

WRMPPF merged in 2002 with the Will Rogers Memorial Fund, established in 1936 to honor the humanitarian and entertainer.