TULSA, Okla. – Thursday, April 28, one of the statues at the Tulsa Historical Society & Museum was stolen. Joplin News First shared it in our Stolen Items Group.
The statue is of Marjorie Tallchief, an American Indian ballerina.
“Our beloved statue of Marjorie Tallchief was stolen. We are currently working with the Tulsa Police Department.” – Tulsa Historical Society & Museum
In a development though Monday Tulsa Police say the statue was found in Catoosa, Okla., at a recycling plant. Well at least part of it was found.
“The statue has been partially found, cut into pieces, at a recycling center. We are devastated but hopeful for apprehension and more answers to come,” museum staff state online. “Our beloved Marjorie Tallchief statue was stolen, sawed from its base, cut into pieces and taken to a recycling center for around $250. Parts are missing and it must be fully replaced. The Tulsa Police Department is working diligently to apprehend the thief. We are extremely grateful to the Tulsa community for spreading the word and helping us find the partial statue. Now the ultimate goal is full replacement.”
The museum has a Go Fund Me set up for donations on repairing the statue. Click here to read more on the American Indian Ballerinas on their Go Fund Me.
“We are hoping to raise $10,000 to cover our insurance deductible + $5,000 for increased security for all five statues.”
This statue of Marjorie Tallchief is one of the 5 Moons: bronze depictions of Oklahoma’s renowned American Indian ballerinas Yvonne Chouteau, Rosella Hightower, Moscelyne Larkin, Maria Tallchief, and Marjorie Tallchief. When these dancers began their careers, Europeans dominated ballet. These women, due to their talent, dedication and determination, went to the top of their field and brought recognition to Oklahoma and Native American artistry. Each sculpture depicts the ballerinas in the ballet she considered to be her signature piece.
This is a developing story, stay with Joplin News First on KOAM News Now as we continue to learn more. Scroll below and sign up for our email list to get Joplin News First news alerts in your email box so you don’t miss a story.
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