Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum

In response to the Oklahoma City bombing, educator Soledad Chávez-Plumley and her 1st grade class in Philadelphia crafted a heartfelt poem in both Spanish and English for the children of Oklahoma. This poem was sent in 1995 to Cecilia Bradley and her 2nd grade class at Woodrow Wilson Elementary School in Norman. “Even in the face of tragedy, we can express our humanity to those we have yet to meet.” #FromTheArchives

As National Hispanic Heritage Month continues, we remember the global impact of the Oklahoma City bombing. Items from Puerto Rico, Peru and Mexico left on The Fence highlight the widespread solidarity and unity fostered by the Memorial. The Fence and the Memorial serve as powerful spaces where people come together to honor and remember. #FromTheArchives

For National Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor Antonio “Tony” C. Reyes, an equal opportunity specialist with the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Tony was a respected member of the Hispanic community and served on several boards. In recognition of his service in the US Navy, this card was placed on his Empty Chair following the dedication of the Oklahoma City National Memorial. #FromTheArchives

Today, we remember the September 11 attacks. This wooden sign, created in 2002 and placed on the Fence, symbolizes the bond between Oklahoma City and New York City. Both cities, connected by their tragedies, share a deep link through the acts of kindness and unity shown in response. #FromTheArchives

On September 11, 2001, our nation endured the worst act of terrorism in U.S. history. Thousands were killed, including six Oklahomans and nine first responders who aided the rescue and recovery efforts following the Oklahoma City bombing. The attacks on April 19 and September 11 bonded our two cities with a shared experience. Today, we’re reminded of how our communities stood united in the face of tragedy, and how our country responded to the senselessness of violence with an outpouring of love and support. We invite all to stop by the Memorial and Museum to learn more about the resilience of the human spirit.

September is National Preparedness Month. In July 1994, Oklahoma City leaders participated in crucial disaster preparedness training at FEMA's Emergency Management Institute. This training helped refine the city's emergency response plan, which played a vital role after the bombing. In recognition of their efforts and contributions, the OKC Fire Department received this plaque from the National Disaster Medical System’s Office of Emergency Preparedness. #FromTheArchives

After the bombing, students nationwide sent tokens of remembrance and support. Among these heartfelt messages were cards from Coolidge Elementary School. One card, created by Erica Holland, is particularly poignant — her mother, Peggy Louise Holland, was one of the 168 killed in the bombing. Visit the Memorial and Museum to see how these expressions of care and solidarity continue to honor the memory of those who were killed, those who survived and those changed forever. #FromTheArchives

In 2005, we embarked on a special project to honor the lives lost in the 1995 bombing. Survivor Tree seedlings were planted in communities across the state, including at Spencer Elementary School (pictured here). These photos capture a community coming together to heal and rebuild! #FromTheArchives

As the new school year begins, we reflect on the significance of Oklahoma House Bill 2750. Signed by Governor Brad Henry on March 31, 2010, this bill mandates that the Oklahoma City bombing is taught in Oklahoma history classes. Thanks to H.B. 2750, students statewide learn about the events of April 19, 1995, and the profound impact it had on our state and nation. #FromTheArchives

As the 2024 Summer Olympics wrap up this week, we reflect on a moment from 1996 when the Oklahoma City bombing site was a stop on the torch relay. Mike Downey, brother-in-law of Terry Smith Rees who was killed in the bombing, passed the torch to Jennifer Rodgers of the Oklahoma City Police Department. Olympics organizers and relay participants signed a relay shirt, which was hung on the Fence and later preserved by the Memorial Archives. #FromTheArchives