The Hidden $1M Pigeon Museum in OKC & Norman's Student Heroes | Only in OK

The Hidden $1M Pigeon Museum in OKC & Norman's Student Heroes | Only in OK

Author: Harley Covington and Brett Manzer February 16, 2026 Duration: 36:48

Think pigeons are just "sky rats"? Think again. This week, we're heading to 2300 NE 63rd St to explore the American Pigeon Museum & Heritage Center, a world-class facility hidden on 10 beautiful acres in Oklahoma City.

From War Heroes like Cher Ami—the bird that saved a WWI battalion—to high-stakes Pigeon Racing athletes worth thousands of dollars, we're diving into the fascinating (and surprisingly zen) world of these feathered veterans. You'll learn about "Rolling" competitions, birds with bell-bottom feet, and why the pigeon was actually the first domesticated bird in history.

In the second half of the show: We're celebrating "Real American Heroes" right here in Norman. We highlight the heartwarming story of Lyz Farrar (owner of Donate-A-Miracle) and the group of local high school seniors who stepped up to support her thrift store and the community.

In This Episode:

  • The World of Wings: Exploring the diversity of the African Owl and the Parlor Roller.

  • Feathered Veterans: The emotional history of the Dickin Medal and pigeons in combat.

  • The Sport of Kings: How pigeon racing works and the high stakes involved.

  • Community Spotlight: Norman seniors Everett Lee, Skylar Lipscomb, and Trenam Verbick giving back to Donate-A-Miracle.

Plan Your Visit:

  • Location: 2300 NE 63rd St, Oklahoma City, OK

  • Hours: Friday & Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm

  • Admission: Free (Suggested $5 donation)

  • Website: theamericanpigeonmuseum.org

Support Our Sponsors:

Today's show is brought to you by Friends of Nicoma Park. Support local community initiatives at facebook.com/friendsofnicomapark.


#OklahomaCity #OnlyInOK #AmericanPigeonMuseum #OKCHistory #NormanOK #PigeonRacing #CherAmi #DonateAMiracle #OklahomaMuseums #VisitOKC #GoodNewsOklahoma #CommunityHeroes


Hosts Harley Covington and Brett Manzer invite you to join them on the Only in Oklahoma Show, a podcast dedicated to uncovering the genuine character of the state. This isn't a typical travel guide; it's a series of conversations and explorations focused on the unique people, local spots, and compelling narratives that collectively define Oklahoma's identity. Each episode moves beyond the stereotypes to reveal why the state is a profoundly underrated destination, even to many who live there. You'll hear from community pillars, creative minds, and keepers of history whose stories are woven into the landscape. The podcast digs into the cultural and societal layers that make a place feel like home, covering everything from hidden roadside attractions and regional cuisine to contemporary issues shaping local towns. It’s an audio tour driven by curiosity and a desire to showcase that Oklahoma is far more than just "OK." Tune in for an authentic and engaging perspective that might just change how you see this part of the country, all delivered by the award-winning team behind the microphone.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

Only in OKlahoma Show
Podcast Episodes
The 100-Square-Foot Mistake & Oklahoma's Most Adorable Small Towns [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:39
Is it a National Park or a clerical error? In this episode of the Only in OK Show, Brett and Harley dive into the hilarious history of Guthrie's "smallest National Park" and explores the most charming small towns across…
Forget Big Bend! 🌵 Discover Oklahoma's Secret Desert Wilderness [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 50:33
Is Oklahoma hiding a massive desert adventure? 🦬🏜️ In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're skipping the 8-hour drive to Texas and heading straight to the Charon Gardens Wilderness Area in the Wichita Mountains. If…
Shawnee's Painted Horses [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:37
In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're exploring the "public art gallery without walls" in Shawnee, Oklahoma. Discover the story behind the Painted Horses, a collection of nearly 40 life-sized fiberglass masterpie…
Chasing Stars at Black Mesa & The Future of Tinker AFB [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:51
Discover the "Gold Standard" of the Great Plains. In this episode of the Only in OK Show, Brett and Harley take you to the furthest corner of the Panhandle to celebrate a historic milestone: Black Mesa State Park has off…
The Christmas Extravaganza [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:46
In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we discuss our plans for Christmas this year. We also give a festive review of Ralphie's in downtown Chickasha, located in the historic El Chedos/The Outpost building. Highlights o…
🎄 Oklahoma Christmas Guide: Traditions, Lights, & Festive Fun! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:26
Welcome to "The Only in OK Show" definitive guide to Christmas time in Oklahoma! Hosts Brett and Harley take you on a festive journey through the Sooner State's unique holiday customs, events, and traditions. What Makes…