New phase of 1921 Race Massacre grave investigation begins in Tulsa

Crews in Tulsa started a sixth round of investigations at Oaklawn Cemetery. The work seeks unmarked graves tied to the 1921 events. Field experts joined city teams to search the site.

Archeological and forensic work will continue in areas where additional remains could still rest. Brenda Nails-Alford, Descendent Representative, spoke about the effort at the site.

“I think of my grandparents and our community members who lost family, friends, and neighbors who they never saw again on top of the tragedy that they themselves endured,” Nails-Alford said. “It is such an honor to stand here in this day and time to represent them and just let them know it was not all in vain. This is hard work, but it is hard work that is so much needed. This is a very integral part of the history of Greenwood and Black Wall Street.”

Teams are examining portions of about 16 graves just outside the western fence line of the Tulsa cemetery. Crews also work along the southern fence line where they believe more remains could rest.

Dr. Kary Stackelbeck, State Archeologist with the Oklahoma Archeological Survey, discussed the long timeline.

“The idea that we would be here six years latercertainly didn’t cross my mind. I think it may have crossed the minds of others, but I think that speaks to the scope and scale of what we are actually investigating here and it’s honest to the challenges and the patience that’s required,” Stackelbeck said. “The processes that Mrs. Brenda talks about are not fast, they don’t happen quickly and that’s absolutely something that we appreciate.”

State archeologists study historical ground to locate, document and protect buried remains. Field investigations often involve soil analysis, surveying fence lines and systematic digging.

More extensive excavation work is expected in the coming weeks. The walking trail next to the cemetery will remain closed in Tulsa. The project is expected to last through early November.