Local
Tulsa investigators map 32 new grave shafts at Oaklawn Cemetery
A sixth field season in Tulsa’s search for people buried in the aftermath of the 1921 Race Massacre has documented 32 previously unrecorded grave shafts at Oaklawn Cemetery. Three people were recovered for forensic examination, but investigators caution that a mapped shaft does not by itself confirm a burial.
TULSA, Okla. — Investigators have documented 32 grave shafts that were not previously known or listed in city records during the latest field season at Oaklawn Cemetery, where Tulsa is continuing its search for people buried in connection with the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.
The work is in its sixth field season. On Oct. 13, experts recovered three individuals from two excavation areas and took the remains to an on-site osteology laboratory for examination.
State Archaeologist Kary Stackelbeck said the search has expanded beyond the cemetery’s western fence, including beneath a nearby trail where investigators partially identified grave shafts last year. Six shafts were identified outside the fence line and under the trail.
Finding a shaft does not necessarily mean someone is buried there. Investigators first map the outline of a possible grave, then excavate carefully to determine whether remains are present.
Forensic anthropologist Phoebe Stubblefield and her University of Florida team are examining the three individuals. Stubblefield said the work is at an early stage and begins with cleaning the bones. Although no visible trauma has been observed so far, further examination may reveal injuries not apparent in initial X-rays.
For descendants of massacre survivors, the investigation is also an effort to address a painful history. Brenda Nails Alford said she values taking part in work she hopes can contribute to justice and healing for the community.
Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols has emphasized the city’s commitment to seeking answers and helping affected families find a measure of closure. The field season is expected to wrap up later in October, with laboratory examinations continuing into November.