The Gilcrease Museum came about from the efforts of Thomas Gilcrease, who traveled Europe extensively in the 1920?s and the 1930?s. He was able to visit European Museums and was soon inspired to create his own collection. His collection focused on his pride in his American heritage and interest in the history of the American West.

Today, the Gilcrease Museum is one of the best facilities in the country for preserving and studying American art and history. Thousands of people all over the world visit the museum to have a glimpse of its charm, beauty and art collections. It offers a collection of Native American art and artifacts as well as documents, manuscripts, and maps. Workshops, musical events, and lectures are also held to further expand the insights of visitors on the museum and the history it depicts.