08/14/2026
Ferguson Feature by Joe Bryan for Aug 12 2026
Continuing from Jerry L. Gill’s 1975 article in the Chronicles of Oklahoma
“Barely was the ink dry on comments about Ferguson’s appointment as
governor before Ferguson was asked to leap onto the Oklahoma Territory
bronco” (See chapter 12 “Riding the Oklahoma Broncho” in Elva
Ferguson’s book “They carried the Torch…”). “The reason for his
acceptance despite his reservations is best explained in his philosophy of
public service and in his sense of political commitment…Ferguson probably
assumed the duties of the governor with a greater desire to give the people
an honest and efficient government than any other governor before him,
and he had the courage and resolve to back his convictions.”
“This mental toughness and inner resilience were mirrored in his physical
features and demeanor.” …a lithe, athletic build…stern and almost severe
facial features, piercing and intense eyes, …and high forehead that
receded into the stiff red hair that was his distinguishing characteristic.”
“His inaugural set the tone for his administration. The newly appointed
governor made it known to civic leaders in Guthrie hat he did not want an
elaborate, expensive inaugural. At 3:00 P.M. on December 9, 1901 he
received the oath of office from Territorial Chief Justice John H. Burford in
the district court room at Guthrie with only a handful of friends and citizens
looking on. Following the ceremony, he proceeded directly to his executive
office to begin his duties.”
Ferguson was criticized for his lack of society leadership avoiding parties
and receptions. However, he and Elva did invite everyone to their home on
Halloween, and they entertained the Secretary of the Interior Hitchcock
from Washington, DC (Read Elva Ferguson’s account of how their house
staff deserted her for this dinner in chapter 12: Riding the Oklahoma
Broncho). It was not uncommon for Ferguson to make public appearances
and even speeches wearing a blue work shirt commonly worn by farmers.
Another hallmark of his administration was his criteria for selecting
appointees and distribution of patronage: “Integrity and ability”. He
despised the spoils system that put incompetent or immoral persons in
power. He was criticized for the number of Blaine County appointees, but
these were persons he knew and trusted.
Next week: Party unity, strong leadership in legislative sessions and fiscal
responsibility.
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