Frank Phillips was fascinated by the Old West and wanted to preserve the history of the cowboy and the outlaw. Frank devised his own special way to salute the old-time outlaws as well as the cowhands and the local Osage tribal members. Starting in 1927, he hosted an annual party for them at the Woolaroc Ranch. He organized the hard-core regulars (genuine cowboys and tough guys from the area) into an association and summoned them to the ranch each year. He called these annual blowouts the “Cow Thieves & Outlaws Reunion.” Nothing before or since has ever quite compared!
Frank assembled a team of associates to help him plan his party. Pawnee Bill, who had helped stage Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show, the Miller brothers from the 101 Ranch, along with Frank’s own ranch manager, Grif Graham, who was a former sheriff from the area. His party intended to salute the survivors from the territorial days “when men were men and women were respected.”
The party consisted of cowboys, Indians, outlaws, ranchers, and businessmen. The reunion was a colorful affair attended by a variety of locals—old trail riders, horse traders, US Marshals, and a sprinkling of Frank’s personal guests, including Phillips Petroleum directors and other businessmen whom he was trying to impress.
Frank’s ground rules for the party were quite simple; any wanted outlaws would be granted a day of grace for the reunion. If there was an outstanding warrant, the law officers in attendance would have to wait for another time and place to serve their papers. Second and last rule: all guns and grudges had to be left at the main gate.
Fortunately, this rich tradition is still alive and well! Annually, over 1,000 of our supporters gather for an evening of great food, entertainment, fireworks, artisan goods, and true Old West friendship. Because of the great success of this party, Woolaroc has been able to make strategic improvements on our campus and positively impact the lives of countless visitors. We are so grateful for your generous support and cannot wait to celebrate another incredible event under the stars at the best darn bash in the state!
