About the Oklahoma Division, Inc.

The present day Oklahoma Division traces its origin to the formation of Brig. Gen. Stand Watie Camp, Oklahoma City, in February of 1975. This camp began to actively work to establish new camps and their first success was the establishment of the Folsom-Colbert, Duncan (this chapter was later renamed to honor its founder, James A. Morgan).

Thanks to the special efforts of Mark L. "Beau" Cantrell, a third camp was added. Charles Smith continued to serve as Commander, Oklahoma Division, until August 1976. Dr. Paul Jon Miller was to succeed as commander of the OK Division. On July 28, 1977, the Oklahoma Division was convened in old Confederate Memorial Hall, Oklahoma Historical Society, Oklahoma City. Mark L. Cantrell was elected the new division commander while Dr. C. W. Buck was chosen lieutenant commander. In July 1978, "Beau" convened the first formal meeting of the division at the Hilton Inn West, Okla. City. He was re-elected division commander. In June 1979, the Division hosted its meeting at the Elk's Club, El Reno. The featured speaker was Dr. Kenny Franks, author of a new book, Stand Watie and the Agony of the Cherokee Nation.

In May 1987 the Division met at the Sportsman's Club in Oklahoma City. Col. Jordan Reeves hosted a reception at his famous gun room prior to opening the convention. His famous gun collection is now a central exhibit at the 45th Infantry Division Museum. It was during this meeting that a "unitary rule" was adopted. This rule bound all camps within the Division to support the resolutions and candidates adopted by the Division at its annual meeting. Richard Rea was elected Commander.

The Division moved to the western part of the state in 1989, meeting at Canton. Charles Smith was again elected to lead the Division. Standard awards were established for the Division recognizing the outstanding senior and junior members of the division, the best project and the best camp.

As their Confederate forebears who helped to settle the state now called Oklahoma, they are a hardy, innovative group of men. Although friendly and easy going, underneath these soft appearing exteriors is character filled with determination and a resolve to advance the Cause of Southern History.