Reel 6 – Claremore’s Movie Theater Magic – Claremore’s Lyrical Lyric (1909) and Electrifying Electric (1910) Theatres, Part 3

REEL 6 – Claremore’s Movie Theater Magic – Claremore’s Lyrical Lyric (1909) and Electrifying Electric (1910) Theatres, Part 3

To start at the beginning to rewind and read “Claremore’s Movie Theater Magic” – Reel 1, Reel 2, Reel 3, Reel 4, or Reel 5 – please click the appropriate reel.

An Electric Theatre and Claremore highlight electrified the city in the spring of 1913, when local banker and eligible bachelor Earle Bayless had the honor of escorting Princess Stefania Kaunitz of Austria and her maid to the Electric Theatre for entertainment. Princess Stefania had come all the way from her homeland to improve her health by using Claremore’s renown and medicinal Radium Waters. “The princess proved to be a person of much interest, and during the show was the cynosure of nearly all the eyes of the people present, at some time or other. While the pictures were being shown, the princess raised her veil to get a better view, upon the raising of which those who saw her were surprised to note her face was, so far as one could see, not broken out with eczema, but of course the light was rather poor and we might have been mistaken… Those who witnessed the [February 25, 1913, Thanhouser released] two-reel feature, Sherlock Holmes Solves the Sign of Four, [starring Harry Benham and Charles Gunn] at the Electric Theatre Friday night, were unanimous in their expression that it was a masterpiece. Many of the people in the audience had read the story, which made it doubly interesting. Mr. Webber is to be complimented upon securing such a meritorious picture for his patrons.”[lxx]

Over at the Lyric, “A treat was enjoyed” in March 1913, “by the presentation of the [17-minute-long, D.W. Griffith] Biograph drama, The One She Loved, [starring Henry B. Walthall, Mary Pickford and Lionel Barrymore] which was good, as the pictures of this company always are. On account of the bad weather, not a very large crowd was in attendance, but those who were fortunate enough to see this picture were delighted.”[lxxi]

“Harry Martin, the genial manager of the Lyric Theatre, presented for the approval of his patrons,” in April 1913, “an excellent picture namely, The Twilight of Her Life, which was played by an all-star cast. The picture was in one reel, but those who saw the one reel wished that more was to follow. This picture was accompanied by two others of merit, and on the whole, the show was a dandy.”[lxxii]

“In acknowledgement of his appreciation of the liberal patronage which his picture show has been accorded by the people of Claremore, Harry Martin, manager of the Lyric Theatre, gave a carnation to each lady who passed into his theatre… This was rather a unique idea of Mr. Martin’s, and to say that it proved to be a winner would be putting it mildly. The program presented was especially good. Nowhere in Oklahoma, or any other state for that matter, can there be found any more up-to-date picture shows than right here in our home town.”[lxxiii]

One, two, or even three reel movies were becoming more common, but movie lengths were still considered “short” by today’s market; most were not more than half an hour.

Then Satan came to the Electric. “The great five-reel feature, Satan, which was shown at the Electric Theatre Saturday afternoon and night and Sunday afternoon and night, was absolutely the greatest picture of its kind that has ever been projected upon a screen in this town containing a moral throughout every foot of the picture. Not only was the acting of all the players who helped produce this masterpiece good, especially that of the man who played the part of the devil, but the scenic effect throughout the entire picture was superb.

“The opening scene showed Satan being thrown from heaven and his fall to earth. The first reel dealt with Satan doing evil on the earth in the days of Adam and Eve. The lesson of what happened to those who yield to the temptation of the devil was laid bare and brought home to the minds of all who witnessed the first reel as it was throughout the entire five, coming down step by step unto the present day, showing the devil always wielding an influence over men and women and finally bringing them to ruin, after which he would enjoy a hearty laugh.

“Such pictures are of unlimited value educationally and morally, for much was shown of the crucifixion of Christ. No one who saw this picture went away without giving some concentrated thought. It made one think.”[lxxiv] “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I [Jesus] am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10 KJV”

“A beautiful duet by the ever popular singers, Miss Lois Wiggins and brother, Lawrence, was the next number on the program,” in May 1913, “and to say that their number was pleasing would be putting it mildly. It scored a hit. These two young people are gifted with wonderful voices and the harmony which they draw from a song is especially pleasing to the ear. When it is announced that they will sing at the Lyric Theatre a good crowd is generally the result.”[lxxv]

Community fundraising events continued to be offered at the Lyric. One in May 1913, “was a benefit for the members of the Junior class of the E.U.P.S. [Eastern University Preparatory School at Claremore, now Rogers State University]. The Claremore Progress gave details. “Harry Martin, manager of the Lyric Theatre, gave a benefit show to the Junior class of the state school Friday night which was well attended and reflected credit upon Mr. Martin for his generosity. The juniors share of the proceeds from the benefit show given at the Lyric Theatre Friday night was $22.70. The money goes into the class treasury. The members of the class wish to publically thank Mr. Martin for his kindness.”[lxxvi]

“The two-reel feature, The Kings of the Forests,” shown at the Lyric Theatre, “was an excellent picture in every respect, and was well attended. Several line parties were in evidence… Misses Maude Littlefield, class mother of the Senior class of the E.U.P.S., and Miss Brooks, mother of the Junior, entertained the Junior class, some thirty in number, at Hall & Gilkerson’s Drug Store, Thursday evening, first having enjoyed a line party at the Lyric Theatre.”[lxxvii]

The Lyric Theatre also “gave a benefit show for the Episcopal church… which was well attended. The programme shown was interesting and held the attention of the audience from beginning to end.”[lxxviii]

“Mrs. Wiggins, the efficient piano player at the Lyric Theatre,” was “placed in charge of the same during the absentee of H.M. Martin” that July.[lxxix] This was also the month the Lyric Theater was robbed! “Have you seen anyone spending a whole lot of nickels? If you have just let us know for we will then have the criminal. On Thursday night, Harry Martin left money in the money drawer at the Lyric Theatre to the amount of $1.55 all in nickels, little thinking that a thief would commit a theft for so small an amount, but upon his return to the theatre Friday morning, he found that such had been the case, the nickels were all gone. The thief had cut the screen through which the admission fee is passed and from the vantage point of having his arm inside had relieved the till of the change. As yet, no trace has been found as to who is the guilty party. It is hoped that the thief is found and punished as a lesson not to do childish things again. Whoever did this is a dangerous criminal. Why he may even rob a baby’s bank the next time.”[lxxx]

Line parties continued to be a rage in the summer of 1913. “Miss Winnifred Jennings entertained a few of her girlfriends with a line party to the Lyric Wednesday evening followed by a bunking party at the home of her parents. It is needless to say that the girls had a grand time… And Mrs. A.L. Kates entertained a few young folk at her residence on Second street, Tuesday evening, with a seven o’clock dinner, after which a line party to the Electric Theatre was enjoyed, followed by liquid refreshments at the Hall-Gilkeson Drug Co. The guests of honor were Misses Dorothy Davenport, of Vinita, Alleene McClure, of Springfield, Mo., and Lois Chandler, of Cassville, Mo. A good time in general was had.”[lxxxi]

And a number of “Little Tots Have Bunking Party. Little Eloise Bishop, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Bishop, gave a slumber party to a few of her little friends last week at the home of her parents. Mrs. Bishop, assisted by Byna Murphy and Mrs. J.C. Lipe, served the guests with a picnic luncheon on the lawn, after which a line party was indulged in at the Electric Theatre. Those to accept Little Miss Bishop’s hospitality were Lillian Adams, Margaret Adams, Ruth Flippin, Rebecca Flippin, Charlotte Payne, Fleta Davis, Muriel Lipe and Miss Thelma Bishop. All report a good time.”[lxxxii]

In August 1913, Charlie Church officiated “in the capacity of operator at the Lyric Theatre, during the absence of Roy Wilson, the regular operator, who” spent “his vacation in Missouri visiting homefolk.”[lxxxiii]

Also that August a plea was made to support the Boy Scouts through a “Scouts Benefit. Billy Webber, owner of the Electric Theatre, gave the Boy Scouts a benefit Friday night and the boys cleared $7 after all of the expenses had been paid. Come business men and get in line and help the Scouts as Mr. Webber and Mr. O’Neil have started the ball rolling, so come on and help the Scouts out as they have reorganized under a new scoutmaster and promise to do some good work with the help of the business men.”[lxxxiv]

August 1913, “perhaps for the first time in the history of the city a boy scout baseball team matched a similar visiting team on the local diamond. It was a return game and the Wagoner boys came up on the morning train, twenty-seven strong… After the game, a large number of the boys went to the swimming pool for a plunge, and this was followed by a benefit picture show at the Lyric Theatre… Harry Martin gave a benefit show for the boy scouts at the Lyric… The money derived from the show was used to help defray the expenses of the Wagoner baseball team’s trip to this city.” A card of appreciation on behalf of the Claremore boy scouts, was published in The Claremore Progress. “I wish to publically thank the owners and managers of the Electric Theatre, the Lyric Theatre, and the Swimming Pool for the benefits given the Boy Scouts, John Barrett for the use of his car Friday, and the business men and the different homes for the courtesies shown our visitors from Wagoner. D. Ferrara, Scoutmaster.”[lxxxv]

The Claremore Progress affirmed, ”To a crowded house throughout the entire evening Saturday, the Electric Theatre showed that great photo-play, Tannhauser, by the famous Thanhouser Company, in three parts, which was by far the most superbly staged and well-acted motion picture feature ever shown in Claremore. Not only was the scenery most elaborate but the ‘Violets’ and ‘My Cabaret,’ sung by Miss Link, pleased the large audience. Costumes were par-excellence. Mr. Webber, the manager of this popular show house, is endeavoring to secure the finest programs obtainable, and it is due to the showing of such features as Tannhauser that he owes the liberal patronage his theatre is enjoying.”[lxxxvi] By September, “Lee Pitts, former operator at the Olympic Theatre of Oklahoma City [had] accepted a position as operator at the Electric Theatre.”[lxxxvii]

Excellent motion picture programs continued to be shown at the Lyric Theatre. “A well-acted Biograph drama, The Hero of Little Italy, was especially interesting, as was also The School Principle [or Principal?], by the Lubin Co., When Dreams Come True and One Can’t Always Tell, completing the evening program, were well received. The Lyric Trio, singing ‘Baby Rose, My Moonlight Pal,’ was enjoyed by all, the selection being rendered in their usually pleasing manner. Mr. Martin, the manager, enjoyed a most liberal patronage during the evening, the verdict of all being an excellent and interesting program.”[lxxxviii]

Claremore’s movie houses continued with benefit events. The benefit at the Lyric “for the Odd Fellows Orphanage was one of the most liberally patronized ever given in the city. The theatre was crowded from beginning to end of the program.”[lxxxix] “The Electric Theatre put on a benefit for the Junior class of the Prep school, and by hard work the students had sold tickets to about everyone in town, which with the Lyric and the Opera House also running, gave amusement for all.”[xc] The Electric Theatre will give a benefit tonight for the Royal Neighbors lodge.[xci]

The movie theatre business was booming; it was time for expansion in December 1913.  Harry Martin, manager of the Lyric Theatre, told the editor of The Claremore Progress, “that while in Collinsville he purchased the Royal Theatre at that place. He says that he has remodeled the place and made it look like new. He has changed the name of the place of amusement to the Lyric. He says that he kept the doors open only three days last week and that he enjoyed a nice business at the hands of the Collinsville people and that the prospects are very bright for a successful business at that place. [Harry Martin’s son] Victor Martin will take charge of the new show at Collinsville, and as Victor is a bright energetic fellow, who is willing to work, he may well be expected to make a success of his new undertaking”.[xcii] Victor Martin moved to “Collinsville to take charge of the Lyric Theatre.”[xciii]

To close 1913, the two-reel Vitagraph feature, The Test, starring Clara Kimball Young and Herbert Barry played at the Lyric Theatre in Claremore, and “was one of the best pictures… seen for some time. It was a society drama, part of the second scene being laid in Australia.”[xciv]

With fierce commercial competition continuing between the Electric and Lyric, the movie paying public would “test” which theatre provided the best movie theatre magic. But, could the Claremore community continue to provide enough patronage for the two competing movie houses to survive?

By Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

Coming Attractions Coming Soon: Reel 7- Claremore’s Movie Theater Magic.

Sources:

Oklahoma newspapers sourced through  The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

[lxx] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 11, Ed. 1 Friday, April 11, 1913.

The Inola Register. (Inola, Okla.), Vol. 7, No. 29, Ed. 1 Thursday, February 27, 1913.

https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/787307-sherlock-holmes-solves-the-sign-of-the-four?language=en-US

[lxxi] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 9, Ed. 1 Friday, March 28, 1913.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_One_She_Loved

[lxxii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 11, Ed. 1 Friday, April 11, 1913.

[lxxiii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 12, Ed. 1 Friday, April 18, 1913.

[lxxiv] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 14, Ed. 1 Friday, May 2, 1913.

[lxxv] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 16, Ed. 1 Friday, May 16, 1913.

[lxxvi] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 17, Ed. 1 Friday, May 23, 1913.

[lxxvii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 18, Ed. 1 Friday, May 30, 1913.

[lxxviii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 23, Ed. 1 Friday, July 4, 1913.

[lxxix] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 24, Ed. 1 Friday, July 11, 1913.

[lxxx] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 25, Ed. 1 Friday, July 18, 1913.

[lxxxi] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 26, Ed. 1 Friday, July 25, 1913.

[lxxxii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 27, Ed. 1 Friday, August 1, 1913.

[lxxxiii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 27, Ed. 1 Friday, August 1, 1913.

[lxxxiv] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 29, Ed. 1 Friday, August 15, 1913.

[lxxxv] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 30, Ed. 1 Friday, August 22, 1913.

[lxxxvi] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 30, Ed. 1 Friday, August 22, 1913.

[lxxxvii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 34, Ed. 1 Friday, September 19, 1913.

[lxxxviii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 30, Ed. 1 Friday, August 22, 1913.

[lxxxix] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 39, Ed. 1 Friday, August 29, 1913.

[xc] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 45, Ed. 1 Friday, October 10, 1913.

[xci] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 52, Ed. 1 Friday, November 28, 1913.

[xcii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 44, Ed. 1 Friday, December 5, 1913.

[xciii] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 19, No. 2, Ed. 1 Friday, December 12, 1913.

[xciv] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 46, Ed. 1 Friday, December 19, 1913.

Reel 5 – Claremore’s Movie Theatre Magic – Claremore’s Lyrical Lyric (1909) and Electrifying Electric (1910) Theatres – Part 2

REEL 5 – Claremore’s Movie Theater Magic – Claremore’s Lyrical Lyric (1909) and Electrifying Electric (1910) Theatres – Part 2

To start at the beginning to rewind and read “Claremore’s Movie Theater Magic” – Reel 1, Reel 2, Reel 3, or Reel 4, please click the appropriate reel.

Lyric Theatre would have been located in the Boling building, 4th building from the right. Claremore Main Street looking southeast. Photo courtesy Randy Leach Collection.

Surprisingly, even with the Lyric Theatre’s buy out in November 1911 by R.B. Collins, the Lyric did not disappear from Claremore’s movie theatre stage. And as “the show must go on,” Mrs. Geo. H. Henderson, a former employee of the Lyric Theatre, “accepted her old position as pianist at this popular place of amusement.”[xxxv]

Under the new management of the Lyric Theater, a new electric sign,[xxxvi] a new customer loyalty promotion, and a theatre supported civic event were advertised. “A souvenir of a rose was given the lady attendants,”[xxxvii] and a benefit show was given to support the Claremore band.[xxxviii] The new management of the Lyric  understood the “benefit” of  ingratiating itself to the community where it resided.

But three short months later, March 1912, the Lyric, once again, changed hands. The Claremore Messenger informed the movie going public, “H.H. Kaho and H.M. [Harry] Martin[xxxix] have bought the Lyric Theatre of this city, and took charge of the same Monday. Mr. Collins, who has been the owner for about three months, will leave the city. The Lyric is an old established picture show, is strictly up to date, and bears a good reputation, with a good business.”[xl] The Claremore Progress added, “The Lyric Theatre has changed hands. This time the owners are H.M. Martin and H.H. Kaho; they having taken charge of the business Monday and assure the public that the same class of pictures will be shown in the future as has been shown in the past. Geo. Constant (who had apparently returned from his Texas adventures) will operate the machine as formerly and everyone knows George is a good one. Mr. Collins, the former owner will leave the city for other fields at an early date, having made many friends during his stay in the city.”[xli]

The Rogers County Leader shared the news this way. “The Lyric Theatre changed hands Monday. The new men at the helm are H.M. Martin[xlii] and H.H. Kaho.[xliii] The photoplay patrons are assured that the new management will continue the good service that has characterized the popular place.”[xliv] A month later, H.M. Martin “purchased the interest of his partner, Dr. Kaho, in the Lyric Theatre, and” went on to “conduct the business.”[xlv] Victor Martin,[xlvi] Harry’s son, was manager.[xlvii]

Right away, “The Lyric Theatre management… greatly improved this popular place of amusement by changing the front of the theatre, also increasing the seating capacity and ventilating the building. The pictures are now shown in the front of the building instead of the rear.”[xlviii]  With nearly explosive astonishment to all, “While repairing the Lyric Theatre in the Boling block, workmen tore out a gas pipe which was completely eaten up with rust and which in a short time would have given out, probably causing an explosion that would have wrecked the building. It would be wise to do some more inspecting of pipes.”[xlix]

May 1912, both the Electric and Lyric theaters showed their Claremore spirit. “On Tuesday evening at the Electric theatre, Mr. Webber demonstrated that he is a friend to Claremore’s band by putting on a band benefit program to which the people of the city turned out well. The band boys were seated in front of the theatre and dispensed their very best music, which within itself was a good drawing card. When one stops to consider what an expense accompanies the upkeep of musical organizations of this kind, he should feel only too glad to donate a small sum toward helping the boys alone. ‘For sweet charity’s sake’ there was a special program rendered at the Lyric Wednesday evening to a house crowded to overflowing. In addition to three reels of good pictures there was special music, the ladies’ quartet and Messers. Hughes and Boren rendering vocal selections, which merited applause. The kindness of the management in this assisting such a good cause is commendable indeed.”[l]

June 1912, moving pictures were shown Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday nights of each week at the Electric Theater. “Nothing but the very best will be shown. New pictures each night. B.F. Tanner, Mgr.”[li] Robin Hood was billed as one of the theater’s special attractions.[lii]

And just for kicks, in August 1912, “Little Juanita Hale sang ‘Gotta Quit Kickin’ My Dawg Around’” at the Lyric.[liii]

Always looking for ways to improve their productions to draw a crowd, in September 1912, both the Electric and Lyric Theatres added “new features to their shows in the form of high-class singing. The Electric has engaged the Knowland Sisters for a five months’ run and they are exceedingly good singers. Mrs. Wiggins and her daughter and son are at the Lyric and are doing some very clever work in the line of high class singing.”[liv]

Not only conscientious about production improvement, by the fall of 1912 the Electric Theatre received a facelift. “Wm. Webber contemplates making extensive improvements on the Electric Theatre in the near future. The walls will be decorated, new carpets will be placed on the floor and other extensive improvements will be made in the lobby. When Mr. Webber completes his improvements he will have one of the most up-to-now picture shows in the state and as he only shows pictures that are the best, his house will be second to none in every detail.”[lv]

The two extensively publicized movie houses in Claremore in 1912 were the Lyric and the Electric. “Claremore has without a single doubt as good picture shows as any in the United States. No picture show in the world could furnish any more or any higher class pictures for the price of admission than we get here at home for the small price of ten cents. The singing alone, such as we get at both shows, is worth the price of admission and the shows which the Lyric and the Electric put up Tuesday night, each with a two-reel feature, made one feel that the management of these houses appreciate the patronage of the citizens and were endeavoring to furnish them with the largest and best pictures available. The two-reel feature, Human Hearts at the Electric Tuesday night was magnificent both in the scenic effect and the acting. King Baggot playing the lead as the village blacksmith, portrayed that character in a manner that won the heart of every person present. The song ‘Good Night Beloved, Good Night,’[lvi] by the Knowland sisters was beautiful and duly appreciated as was shown by the hearty applause they received. The two-reel feature, A Temporary Truce, at the Lyric Tuesday night was acted by the Biograph Company and was the most realistic portrayal of Western life that has ever been shown in the city. The singing of the Lyric Trio was excellent and were forced to respond three times before the audience would be satisfied. We have two good shows in one good town… The [Edison] picture, Revenge is Sweet, at the Lyric Monday night was a dandy and convulsed the audience with merriment. Those who missed it missed a treat.”[lvii]

The Lyric received a significant endorsement that October in the Talala Gazette. “Moving Picture Shows. The Gazette is not in the habit of recommending shows of any kind to its readers, but this week we are going to make an exception and tell you which one to attend when you are in Claremore waiting for the train. If you go to the Lyric you will not be disappointed, since Harry Martin, the manager, never puts on anything but what is strictly down-to-the-minute in the movie picture line. In fact, a fellow told the Gazette man that Martin’s machine was so sensitive that it would not run out ‘a bum picture to an audience.’ We rather suspect this is true, as we had no trouble in finding men willing to corroborate the above statement. Satisfy yourself about this matter when you go to Claremore, and if you are ‘stung,’ come to the Gazette office and get your dime back.”[lviii]

That October the Lyric “arranged to handle motion pictures of the state fair. Among other things the Claremore band will be shown in action.”[lix]

The 1912 Biograph motion picture A Dash Through the Clouds was shown at the Lyric Theatre in November. The movie “was the most realistic picture of an areoplane [sic] in flight that [had] ever been shown in the city. A pretty little love story was interwoven in between the flights which made the picture interesting otherwise than the prospective.”[lx]

Lady of the Lake was said to be a “Good Show. The [Vitagraph] motion picture, The Lady of the Lake, which appeared at the Lyric Theatre Wednesday night was a three-reel feature which portrayed Sir Walter Scott’s poem of that name in a very pretty manner. The scenes of this poem and picture lay in the highlands of Scotland and dealt with the nobility of Scotland. Large and appreciative audiences viewed this masterpiece and were unanimous in their praise of the same.”[lxi]

As an added attraction, “The Claremore band gave an excellent concert in front of the Lyric Theatre,” one evening in early November “for which the management wishes to publically thank them. The weather was very cold but in spite of that fact, the boys put up some classy music.” [lxii]

“The picture, Ghosts, at the Lyric,” in December “was exceptionally good and replete with beautiful scenes laid around an old southern mansion. The old southern gentleman becomes encumbered with debts and is forced to give up the mansion to satisfy his creditors. The picture was composed of many beautiful thoughts, showing how the heart lingers about home… Such pictures as these are a delight to the eye,” declared the Claremore Progress.[lxiii]

Competition between major early film production studios, such as inventor Thomas Edison’s Edison Studio, Thanhouser Company founded by Edwin and Gertrude Thanhouser and brother-in-law Lloyd Lonergan, the French company Pathé Frères, Biograph Studios with the renowned director D.W. Griffith, and Vitagraph which eventually became Warner Bros. in 1925, increased as 1912 faded into the past.

Claremore’s movie theatre magic opened the year of 1913 with the good news, that Mrs. Wiggins, singer at the Lyric, who had been absent due to illness, was “so far recovered, as to be able to fill her position” once again.[lxiv] Since silent movies needed musical accompaniment to enhance and interpret the action, a strong and engaging musician and vocalist were a necessity. The quality of local pianists and singers could make or break the popularity of a production. Mrs. Wiggins was considered quite gifted as both.

“The picture program shown at the Lyric Theatre,” on a Tuesday night in January, “was of the best. Each reel was fine, The Indelible Stain, a story of the old mission days in California, being exceptionally interesting. It is this class of program that merits the large patronage this popular theatre enjoys.”[lxv]

The following week,  Vitagraph’s The Irony of Fate, “was excellent, featuring Florence Turner and Miss Clara Kimball.”[lxvi] The Night Before Christmas and The Box Car Baby were “two very interesting reels shown… and were greatly appreciated by the large crowd in attendance.”[lxvii] These features were reeling at the Lyric, as great films were looping at the Electric during the winter season.

Released on Christmas Eve, December 24, 1912, and reaching Claremore after the new year, Edwin Tanhouser’s film, The Star of Bethlehem shown at the Electric Theatre “was the most gorgeous and expensive moving picture film ever shown in this city.”[lxviii] The Holmes and Shope show came and went. “Their performance consisted of vaudeville and moving pictures. They had Mr. Tanner’s Electric Theater leased and had a crowded house every night.[lxix]

As the joys of the winter holiday season melted away thoughts turned to spring as a secret circulated through Claremore’s social circles declaring that a real live celebrity, a princess was coming to town. What part would she play in Claremore’s Movie Theatre Magic?

By Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

Coming attractions: REEL 6 – Claremore’s Movie Theater Magic – Claremore’s Lyrical Lyric (1909) and Electrifying Electric Theatres (1910), Part 3, click here.

by Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

Sources: Unless otherwise noted, Oklahoma newspapers are sourced through The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

Sources:

[xxxv] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 19, No. 40, Ed. 1 Friday, November 3, 1911.

[xxxvi] 1911 Dec 29 – The Electric Theater has a new electric sign and the Pastime has gone out of business.

Knight, H. Tom. Rogers County Leader. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 1, No. 95, Ed. 1 Friday, December 29, 1911.

[xxxvii] Knight, H. Tom. Rogers County Leader. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 1, No. 88, Ed. 1 Friday, November 10, 1911.

[xxxviii] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 19, No. 42, Ed. 1 Friday, November 17, 1911.

[xxxix] https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33349697/harry-m-martin  Harry M. Martin. Birth 1862. Death 1937 (aged 74-75). Burial Woodlawn Cemetery. Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot CP2-25-L3.-6W. Spouse Myrtle C. 1870 – 1940. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33350776/myrtle-catherine-martin

Victor Martin. Birth 1891. Death 1956 (aged 64-65). Burial Woodlawn Cemetery. Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33351006/victor-martin

[xl] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 16, Ed. 1 Friday, March 22, 1912.

[xli] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 8, Ed. 1 Friday, March 22, 1912.

[xlii] Harry M. Martin. Birth 1862. Death 1937 (aged 74-75. Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot CP2-25-L3.-6W. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33349697/harry-m-martin

[xliii] Harry H. Kaho. Birth 18 Nov 1873. Death 12 Jul 1949 (aged 75). Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Plot CP2-8.-L3.-4E. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33998971/harry-kaho

[xliv] Hester, Ben. Rogers County Leader And Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 4, No. 3, Ed. 1 Friday, March 22, 1912.

[xlv] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 11, Ed. 1 Friday, April 12, 1912.

[xlvi] Victor Martin. Birth 1891. Death 1956 (aged 64-65). Burial Woodlawn Cemetery, Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma.  Location: CP2-25-L3.-6E. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33351006/victor-martin  http://www.interment.net/data/us/ok/rogers/woodlawn-cemetery-records-ma-mc.htm

[xlvii] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 36, Ed. 1 Friday, October 4, 1912.

[xlviii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 13, Ed. 1 Friday, April 26, 1912.

[xlix] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 13, Ed. 1 Friday, April 26, 1912.

[l] Hester, Ben. Rogers County Leader And Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 4, No. 11, Ed. 1 Friday, May 17, 1912.

[li] The Inola Register. (Inola, Okla.), Vol. 6, No. 44, Ed. 1 Thursday, June 13, 1912.

[lii] Hester, Ben. Rogers County Leader And Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 4, No. 26, Ed. 1 Friday, August 30, 1912.

[liii]  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZRiJwK4f_0 or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJ3rXbFn8qE

Hester, Ben. Rogers County Leader And Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 4, No. 22, Ed. 1 Friday, August 2, 1912.

[liv] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 33, Ed. 1 Friday, September 13, 1912.

[lv] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 35, Ed. 1 Friday, September 27, 1912.

[lvi] “Human Hearts” https://nypl.getarchive.net/media/good-night-beloved-good-night-4f5e02 sheet music.

https://archive.org/details/HumanHeartsForYT

“Good Night Beloved, Good Night” https://archive.org/details/78_good-night-beloved-good-night_harry-macdonough-oliver-fay_gbia0009496b/Good+Night%2C+Beloved%2C+Good+Night+-+Harry+Macdonough.flac

[lvii] ‘Revenge is Sweet’  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVRcfcbqRWI

Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 37, Ed. 1 Friday, October 11, 1912.

[lviii] Hester, Ben. Rogers County Leader And Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 4, No. 31, Ed. 1 Friday, October 4, 1912.

[lix] Hester, Ben. Rogers County Leader And Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 4, No. 32, Ed. 1 Friday, October 11, 1912.

[lx] A Dash Through the Clouds https://archive.org/details/ADashThroughTheClouds1912

Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 41, Ed. 1 Friday, November 8, 1912.

[lxi] Lady of the Lake https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGvvTVIxHiA

Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 41, Ed. 1 Friday, November 8, 1912.

[lxii] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 41, Ed. 1 Friday, November 8, 1912.

[lxiii] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 48, Ed. 1 Friday, December 27, 1912.

[lxiv] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 49, Ed. 1 Friday, January 3, 1913.

[lxv] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 50, Ed. 1 Friday, January 10, 1913.

[lxvi] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 20, No. 51, Ed. 1 Friday, January 17, 1913.

[lxvii] Claremore Progress And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 21, No. 5, Ed. 1 Friday, February 28, 1913.

[lxviii] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 10, Ed. 1 Friday, February 7, 1913.

[lxix] The Inola Register. (Inola, Okla.), Vol. 7, No. 29, Ed. 1 Thursday, February 27, 1913.

Reel 4 – Claremore’s Movie Theatre Magic – Claremore’s Lyrical Lyric (1909) and Electrifying Electric (1910) Theatres

Claremore’s Movie Theater Magic – Claremore’s Lyrical Lyric (1909) and Electrifying Electric (1910) Theatres – Reel 4

To rewind and read “Claremore’s Movie Theater Magic” – Reel 1, Reel 2, or Reel 3, please click the appropriate reel.

Experienced movie theater managers made it their business to understand their neighborhood communities and know what consumers wanted. The first mention of Claremore’s Lyric Theatre came in July 1909 with the Rev. Charlie Tillman preaching there one morning. The Claremore Messenger reported, “This place is now as popular as it could be… crowds growing every night.”[i] Local newspapers gave the Lyric glowing reports. “The Lyric gives its patrons the same high grade shows which the Tulsa and Oklahoma City people enjoy.”[ii]

Success in the movie theater business depended on pleasing the crowd and drawing paying customers. Several theatres played their final scene and faded out of existence. O.A. Neis’s Mystic, A.B. Fortner’s Palace, Mr. Jacob’s Pastime, and French and Johnson’s Mystic #2 had already appeared then vanished from Claremore’s entertainment treasury. Yet, the Lyric lingered.

As the curtain rose opening the new decade of 1910, Mr. Guy O. Vail was manager and Miss A.E. Crowe was owner of the Lyric Theatre located on the south side of the 500 block at 517 West Third Street (Will Rogers Boulevard, about where RCB Bank stands today).[iii] This theater replaced A.B. Fortner’s Palace Theatre formerly situated in the same space at the Boling building.

“Davis, Boling Building, Claremore, Okla.” South Side 3rd Street (Will Rogers Blvd.), between Lynn Riggs & Missouri Ave. Postcard. Boling’s Pharmacy, Importer & Publisher, Claremore, Okla. Wheelock. No postmark. Lyric movie theater was located in the right side building.

A refreshment of the room was completed when the new movie theatre moved in. Artist-designer “Mr. Fred H. Herbst, late of Los Angeles,” put his talents to work. [iv] “Nothing but the best” was made available “at the ever popular Lyric.”[v]

Loyalty incentives enticed patrons to attend the new Lyric Theatre with advertising directly targeting women. “Every lady visiting the Lyric this afternoon will receive a beautiful souvenir.”[vi]

The Lyric Theatre entered the new season with bravado.[vii] “Visit the Lyric Theatre for high-class motion pictures and illustrated songs,” advertised The Claremore Progress, with an “entire change of program daily.”[viii]

On Friday, February 4, 1910, movie house manager Guy Vail became a local hero with The Claremore Progress’s unexpected publicity inspired by the following story. “The six-year-old daughter of Mrs. F.L. Courier, of Webb City, Missouri, met with what came near being a serious accident at the Sequoyah hotel. She and two other little girls were playing. The little girl ran too near the fire and her clothes ignited. She ran into the hall where she was met by Guy O. Vail, manager of the Lyric Theatre and a Mr. Felix, of Parsons, who immediately rescued the little miss and subdued the flames. The burns on her body and arms were painful but at this writing she is getting well and, it is thought will heal without a scar.”[ix]

That July, not only heroics but change was in the air for Guy Vail, who opened a moving picture show north and east of Claremore, at Afton. The Rogers County News affirmed, “Mr. Vail is a square young business man and the people of Afton will do well to receive him into their midst.”[x]  

This was also the summer that George Constant, “the efficient operator at the Lyric” and “one of the best in the state,” got married.[xi]

A talented multitasking movie operator (projectionist) was a necessity for a successful, well-run movie operation. “In many cases, the owner of a nickelodeon had started out as a one-man show, running the projection machine himself as well as collecting the nickels and delivering narrations for the films and singing between reels. But competition demanded something more of the performance. The operator had to crank the machine by hand all day long, keeping an eye on the varying speed, the focus, and the amount of light, and nurse the worn and torn perforations [of the film] through the [projection machine’s] sprockets. He had to trim his carbon lights, make repairs and cuts to the film, and display slides for the singer or the lecturer, or announcement slides, which he sometimes made himself. To be good at his profession, he needed to have an understanding of electricity and the laws of optics, and he needed to be a mechanic, in order to repair the projection machine when it broke down. Often he was expected to go and pick up the reels for each day’s show, either at the film exchange or at the railway station, returning the old ones already used, and he had to see that the day’s show was in good enough repair to go through the machine twenty or more times.”[xii]

Miss A.E. Crowe, continued as owner of the Lyric,[xiii] and Mr. Earl Holmes entertained as singer there.

The Rogers County News announce that the Lyric theater would offer the proceeds of one night to the Episcopal church as a benefit.[xiv] Supporting community events was good business practice. The wise theater owner gladly made such civic contributions that engender the good will of customers.

By 1911, Mr. Charles Roaten became operator at the Lyric[xv] as the News explained, Mr. and Mrs. George Constant left for Denton, Texas. “George has been, for some time, operator at the Lyric, but has resigned to open a Lyric for himself at Denton.”[xvi] Then, that February, “Mr. Port, an able electrician of St. Louis, Missouri,… accepted a position as operator at the Lyric Theatre.”[xvii]

A change occurred at the Lyric in April 1911 when Dick Kern became singer.[xviii] The announcement was made, Welch Blackburn “bought the moving picture machine of the Lyric Theatre.”[xix] What did this mean for the Lyric’s future? Only that later that year, the Lyric acquired some new movie theatre competition.

Owned by A.T. Holsburg and opened sometime in late 1910, the existence of a new movie establishment was advertised by the News in February 1911. “Electric Theatre Tonight – The Vows, Drama. The Necklace of the Dead, Drama. The Broken Melody, Drama. Matinee Every Day 2:30 P.M.”[xx] News of the Electric continued with the announcement that “Mrs. Henderson is yet unable to resume her duties as singer at the Electric Theatre. Miss Peggy Hart, of Keifer, is taking her place this week.”[xxi]

Nothing stays the same except change in the movie industry. April 1911, it was announced that William Webber bought the Electric Theatre when The Rogers County News reported, “William Webber purchased of A.T. Holsburg the Electric Theater [located] in the Johnson-Gorey block. Mr. Holsburg, seven months ago, opened this theater here, and has enjoyed a prosperous business all along, and we have found him to be an upright business man. Mr. Webber has been connected for some time with the Glasgow Hardware Co., and he has made many friends by his social and courteous disposition. We believe that the Electric will be even more prosperous under Mr. Webber’s management.”[xxii] Claremore’s own Claud Chambers, who had performed at the Palace theatre, was hired that spring for singing at the Electric.[xxiii]

Third Street (Will Rogers Blvd.) looking west from Cherokee Avenue. Starting at right going left (north side of the street): 1st building is the Columbia Building (gone), #2 is the Johnson-Gorey building (1909), #3 is the Loomis building (1906), #4 is the Burnes/Eaton building (1906 original building burned), #5 is the Chambers building (1905/6), #6 is the corner GW Eaton building (1902).

Built by developers William S. Johnson and Richard M. Gorey, the Johnson-Gorey building was located on the north side of Third Street’s (Will Rogers Boulevard) 400 block, between Missouri and Cherokee avenues. The June 1911 Sanborn Fire Insurance Map, Claremore, Oklahoma, places this theater, “Motion Pictures, Photo 2^nd,” on the second floor of 404 West Third Street,[xxiv] the present home of Rhodes Printing. [xxv]

Being a movie operator could become a dangerous occupation. The nitrate film used in the early days of movie making, with its “combustion point of only 284 degrees Fahrenheit,” [xxvi] “was notoriously flammable, and fires in cinemas in the years 1905 – 1907 probably numbered thousands, although the trade press was at pains to underplay the dangers. Many of these fires were small and restricted to the projection box: it was indeed miraculous that there were not more big and fatal conflagrations.”[xxvii] “Fires had been a problem since the beginning of cinema, but the nickelodeon boom turned it into a crisis. Theater owners often lacked the expertise or financial resources to make their theaters safe, and the large number of inexperienced operators created by the rapid spread of nickelodeons further increased the likelihood of disaster.” [xxviii]

Therefore, it was not completely surprising when The Claremore Progress informed the community, “On account of a fire at Keifer burning up the reels intended for the Electric Theatre Monday night, the management had to scrape up the best kind of a show possible under the circumstances which was hardly up to the standard.”[xxix]

A man of ingenuity, “Wm. Webber, manager of the Electric Theatre,” it was announced, “is making improvements so that in a short time he will be able to give the public vaudeville attractions as well as pictures.”[xxx] Just in time for the summer heat, Mr. Webber also “installed six 16-inch oscillating fans at the Electric Theatre which [made] that popular theatre one of the cool places of the city.”[xxxi] Then, The Electric Theatre “installed a new piano for the benefit of the music loving patrons.”[xxxii]

By September 1911, it was the Lyric that was “becoming quite popular for line parties [a special occasion when a number of young people gathered to attend the movies together]. Two were seen there Saturday night.”[xxxiii]

But it was the following month that big movie theater news was announced in the Claremore Messenger. “The Lyric Theatre has been sold to a gentleman named R.B. Collins who hails from Illinois. He is a very agreeable and business-like gentleman.”[xxxiv] The Claremore Progress added the following details to this news flash. “Business Change. The Lyric Theatre, the oldest picture house in the city, has changed hands. Miss A.E. Crowe, the founder of the business having sold to Mr. R.B. Collins, of Illinois. The new manager comes highly recommended as a business man and a gentleman, and proposes to give the public the same high class pictures always furnished by this popular place of amusement. Miss Crowe has not fully decided just what she will do, but will spend some time visiting in this city and with relatives at Tulsa.”

What would be the fate of the Lyric? So often when movie houses were sold, their assets were liquidated and the movie venue disappeared from the Claremore movie theatre scene. Just like the old time movie seriels, we’ll have to wait till Reel 5 to find out.

Click the link to read Reel 5: Claremore’s Movie Theatre Magic – Claremore’s Lyrical Lyric (1909) and Electrifying Electric (1910) Theatres, Part 2.

By Christa Rice, Claremore History Explorer

Sources:

Oklahoma newspapers are sourced through  The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.

---

[i] Smith, Clark. Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 14, No. 36, Ed. 1 Friday, July 16, 1909.

[ii] Harper, W. R. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 24, Ed. 1 Friday, July 23, 1909.

[iii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 2, Ed. 1 Friday, February 18, 1910.

[iv] Harper, W. R. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 26, Ed. 1 Friday, August 6, 1909.

[v] Harper, W. R. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 28, Ed. 1 Friday, August 20, 1909.

[vi] Harper, W. R. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 33, Ed. 1 Friday, September 24, 1909.

[vii] Harper, W. R. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 49, Ed. 1 Friday, January 14, 1910.

[viii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 14, Ed. 1 Friday, May 13, 1910.

[ix] Harper, W. R. Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 17, No. 52, Ed. 1 Friday, February 4, 1910.

[x] Larner, J. H. The Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 2, No. 18, Ed. 1 Thursday, July 21, 1910.

[xi] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 19, Ed. 1 Friday, June 17, 1910.

[xii] Bowser, Eileen. The Transformation of Cinema, 1907 – 1915, Volume 2, Part 2. Berkley: University of California Press. c. 1990. p.12.

[xiii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 36, Ed. 1 Friday, October 14, 1910.

[xiv] Larner, J. H. The Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 2, No. 41, Ed. 1 Thursday, December 15, 1910.

[xv] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 18, No. 49, Ed. 1 Friday, January 6, 1911.

[xvi] Larner, J. H. The Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 2, No. 47, Ed. 1 Thursday, January 26, 1911.

[xvii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 19, No. 1, Ed. 1 Friday, February 3, 1911.

[xviii] Larner, J. H. The Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 3, No. 6, Ed. 1 Thursday, April 13, 1911.

[xix] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 16, No. 19, Ed. 1 Friday, April 7, 1911.

[xx] Larner, J. H. The Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 2, No. 50, Ed. 1 Thursday, February 16, 1911.

[xxi] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 16, No. 14, Ed. 1 Friday, March 3, 1911.

[xxii] Larner, J. H. The Rogers County News (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 3, No. 7, Ed. 1 Thursday, April 20, 1911.

[xxiii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 19, No. 13, Ed. 1 Friday, April 28, 1911.

[xxiv] Library of Congress. Sanborn Fire Insurance Map, Claremore, Oklahoma, June 1911, Sheet 4. https://www.loc.gov/resource/g4024cm.07040007/?sp=12

[xxv] Sanborn Fire Insurance Map from Claremore, Rogers County, Oklahoma. Sanborn Map Company, Jun, 1911. Map. https://www.loc.gov/item/sanborn07040_007/.

[xxvi] Musser, Charles. The Emergence of Cinema: The American Cinema to 1907, edited by Charles Harpole, Vol. 1, Charles Scribner’s Sons, 1990, p. 443.

[xxvii] Robinson, David. From Peep Show to Palace 0 The Birth of American Film. New York: Columbia University Press. 1996. p. 98.

[xxviii] Musser, Charles. The Emergence of Cinema: The American Cinema to 1907, edited by Charles Harpole, Vol. 1, Charles Scribner’s Sons, 1990, p. 443.

[xxix] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 19, No. 16, Ed. 1 Friday, May 19, 1911.

[xxx] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 19, No. 16, Ed. 1 Friday, May 19, 1911.

[xxxi] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 19, No. 18, Ed. 1 Friday, June 2, 1911.

[xxxii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 19, No. 19, Ed. 1 Friday, June 9, 1911.

[xxxiii] Claremore Progress. And Rogers County Democrat (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 19, No. 31, Ed. 1 Friday, September 1, 1911.

[xxxiv] Claremore Messenger. (Claremore, Okla.), Vol. 16, No. 48, Ed. 1 Friday, November 3, 1911.