LOCAL GEMS
Military History Center A Broken Arrow Treasure Located on Main Street by Jack O’Connor This gem is hidden in plain sight. Behind those dark panes of glass, set in what was the original Broken Arrow Hospital, lies a real treasure worthy of a deep look by every visitor to our fair city, and more importantly, every citizen of this progressive enclave known as Broken Arrow. Almost as important as its existence is the small group of patriots who make it hum.
The Women of MHC Though few in number, they produce a beehive of activity. JeanE Bailie (yes, that is the proper spelling of her first name) is the only paid employee and more than earns her keep. Born in Philadelphia, she spent the better part of her life in Louisville, Kentucky. Twenty years ago, she saw the light and moved to God’s Green Country, where she met Colonel Bob Powell and helped him move many museum artifacts from their temporary museum location to their current home. She was with Colonel Powell in January of 2013, when the Military History Center was referred to as the Military History Museum. One of the most notable things about JeanE is that you will rarely see her without a smile. Claudia Ann Price, born in Richmond, California, is the epitome of a dynamo. She moves around the center swiftly and effortlessly, seemingly everywhere at once. She is going in all directions in a controlled frenzy, carrying out the boss’s (BG Tom Mancino) directives and ideas. She is a goldmine of talent when it comes to ensuring that all things are as they should be. She has been with the center since she helped with the move to the current location. A big smile is permanently on her face. A room noticeably brightens when she enters.
Susan Virdell was born in Lansing, Michigan. She spent time living in Texas and Denver before finally settling in Tulsa for the last 35 years, where she spent 30 years working at American Airlines. A librarian extraordinaire, she is constantly tending to her flock of over 4,000 military-related books and magazines. Some of these tomes are one of a kind. These volumes, which are of great value, are available for research at the large library table. Unfortunately, they are not available for check out. She has worked as a mechanic and can do plumbing. She also does repair work on the models in the hallway.
JEANE BAILIE
A newcomer to this group is another dynamic addition to the volunteers: Cathy Johnson, who lives in Broken Arrow and assists JeanE on Wednesdays. Almost as essential are the docents, who really are the heart of the center. These wonderfully dedicated women make the center operate like a well-oiled machine. The Center without them — ? I don’t even want to think about it! CATHY JOHNSON
CLAUDIA PRICE
SUSAN VIRDELL FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020 | Broken Arrow City Magazine
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