Preserving a Monumental Last Chaper of the West
BARTLESVILLE, OKLA. – The historic and educational preserve, known as Woolaroc, just outside of Bartlesville, Oklahoma provided a wild and exciting day of adventure for three Missouri natives. Woolaroc is a metaphor for Woods – Lakes – Rocks, all of which are found in great abundance within this natural mecca of diverse wildlife, natural elements, and fascinating history.
While Oklahoma locals find Woolaroc worthy of several visits a year, the historic preserve, founded by oilman Frank Phillips, is frequently visited by residents from all 50 states and over 100 countries. “We see a lot of regional travel.” shared Kevin Hoch, CEO of the Frank Phillips Foundation and operating officer of Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve. Woolaroc is currently comprised of land formerly owned by Frank Phillips, oil & gas pioneer for the iconic Phillips 66 brand. The land was originally used as a ranch retreat for Phillips’ family and friends. Over 10 million have visited Woolaroc since its inception in 1925.
The distinct heritage of buffalo roaming the plentiful acres at this wildlife preserve links back to 1926, when Phillips purchased a small herd of buffalo from Scottie Phillip’s stock in South Dakota. “Wooloroc’s capital campaign for future growth centers on three priorities: caring for the existing historic infrastructure, continually promoting education and hands-on engagement, and improving outdoor experiences.” shares Hoch.
Hoch, a Pennsylvania native, joined the Woolaroc family four years ago. His work in that time has centered on ensuring a notable position for a “booming second century ahead.” His main focus in that time has been on positioning the organization for longevity. “The reality is that non-profits have to be financially strategic if we want to be successful long term.” shares Hoch.
“Woolaroc offers something for everyone.” says Hoch. From the up-close-and-personal drive-through preserve, witnessing wild animals just outside one’s vehicle, to the unique museum, chalked full of historic Native American and contemporary art, to the beautiful hiking trails, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy. The museum offers a worldclass collection of art and artifacts, including the most comprehensive firearms collection in the world, and a whole floor dedicated to the Phillips 66 gasoline mogul’s flight and transportation artifacts.
Woolaroc employs 30 individuals, including full and part-time seasonal employees. The preserve also relies on volunteer groups, roughly 70-80 individuals, known as docents. These employees and volunteers work daily on property upkeep and serve as an interface between the employees and hundreds of guests arriving each day. With each impending summer, there are a handful of students that reach out, interested in summer positions in which to work with wildlife and ranch components of this large public preserve and museum. These students are given opportunities such as building fence, feeding animals and basic maintenance, equipment upkeep, and ranch/farm preservation.
Spring and fall are the most popular times to visit Woolaroc. The mild temperatures and vibrant fall foliage facilitate the animals’ visibility. The cooler temps offer a greater desire for guests to hike and enjoy the large plethora of outdoor festivities Woolaroc has to offer. A ‘Wonderland of Lights’ is presented annually for the Christmas holiday, as well as wagon rides, hot chocolate, Santa Clause, and other winter wonderland delights.
Woolaroc, established in 1925, has entered its centennial year of operation. Several celebration events have already occurred, or will take place, in the remaining months of 2025. The museum showcased a Jim Hamilton exhibit this spring. Hamilton, ‘Son of the West’, grew up in Osage County in a ranching family. The exhibit featured ‘Life on the Ranch’, showcasing specific activities and hands-on adventures for guests of all ages.
Kidsfest, an annual weekend event, creates quite a splash among younger guests. Camp Wooloroc, a children’s adventure camp, is offered every July. In addition, Woolaroc has hosted many scout programs in the past 20 years. Last year, they partnered with the Girl Scouts of Oklahoma.
In June, Woolaroc hosted the Manhattan Chamber Orchestra for an enchanting evening of Music under the Stars. Other events include the epic Cow Thieves and Outlaws Reunion, which dates back to Phillips’ time in the late 1920s. This annual fundraiser, scheduled in September, is inclusive of ‘high and low friends’, politicians, bank robbers, outlaws, etc., with a theme of twenty-four hours to get out of town. Before going on the lam however, guests are invited to enjoy delectable cuisine and entertaining live music.
The overarching mission of this noteworthy organization has not changed since 1937. Woolaroc aims to preserve the history of the west, while educating and entertaining the present population, in efforts to maintain a healthy and respectful link for future generations to enjoy. Hoch educated me on the inspiration Frank Phillips gleaned from his childhood, reading Horatio Alger novels and going on wild west outdoor adventures during his living years, 1873-1950. At this time in Phillips life, much of this land was still Indian Territory. “This was the last chapter of the west and if Phillips did not preserve these timeless stories, art, and artifacts, future generations would not be able to imagine that time in our country’s past. Phillips truly felt led, inspired, and responsible to preserve this monumental last chapter of the west.” says Hoch.
Woolaroc is an impressive natural and historical sanctuary for guests of all ages to enjoy. The past holds important keys to the present and a true essence of education for future generations. “It is important to preserve the past, which puts things in perspective. Present generations learn many lessons from history, which allows us to be more productive as a society.” says Hoch.
Phillips was the first Caucasian inducted as an honorary chief in the Osage tribe. While his life experience was much different than the natives, the bond they formed was beneficial to both sides. “Phillips served as a bridge builder and extended many olive branches in efforts to network, get along with, and create positive relationships among diverse groups of people.” shared Hoch. One of Frank Phillips’ best friends was Will Rogers, who said: “When you are visiting the beauty spots of this country, don’t overlook Frank Phillips’ ranch and game preserve in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. It’s the most unique place in this country.”
The Woolaroc website, found at https://woolaroc.org/, shares this invitation: “Come and experience what ‘Uncle Frank’ left for all of us to enjoy!”
