The American Pigeon Museum & Library

Pigeons are my “favorite animal”, so this place was a must when I found myself in OKC for a couple days. It’s free (or donation), so that’s nice, especially since I don’t think I would’ve felt completely comfortable paying. I say this because, as an animal rights proponent, I was kinda disappointed that the majority of the beautiful brick building’s space and exhibits were focused on the many ways we’ve exploited the pigeon—frivolous competitive breeding, tools of war, and non-consenting “athletes” used for the purpose of idiotic gambling. There’s still really interesting information about the pigeon’s history as a species and their journey to becoming one of the most successful species on the planet, and the plethora of outstanding pigeon artwork is great to admire, it just sucks that the only time an animal is revered is as entertainment, food, or other utility. I would still encourage people to visit, just had to put this critique out there. On weekends, several very different live pigeons visit, and you can hold some. A very nice man whose passion for the animal was evident with how he spoke of them, was also really knowledgeable and friendly, and he’ll introduce you to them and shower you with trivia. Most of these pigeons are mutations created by humans, as gorgeous and majestic as they all are. Slappy will give you a light but loud slap of the wing if you put your hand in his cage. I was told they otherwise live in a huge pigeon loft nearby and are allowed to naturally pair. I hope that’s true, but was relieved to know that the museum itself doesn’t fund the forced breeding of these birds. So, I’m torn about the museum. It was everything I wanted it to be, more or less, but as a joyless vegan buzzkill with a respect for non-human animals that goes deeper than the average person’s, I found a lot of it problematic with too much celebration of humans who have only exploited this already unfairly maligned bird.

Dec 29, 2024

Super cool museum. We have been trying to hit all the free OKC museums this year and this one is definitely one of the best. Live pigeons of many varieties on display with a super knowledgeable handler. Tons of history on the care and use of pigeons. Lots of pigeon art. We spent about an hour here and I could have spent longer reading the exhibits.

Aug 24, 2024

Highly recommend this place!!!! Free with a suggested donation amount of 5 dollar if you choose to donate but there is no pressure to do so. Ask the lady when your ready to show you the birds and she will take them out and let you pet them and you can get slapped by slappy!!!! 🤣 Lots I learned that I didn’t know, who knew a free small museum could be so fun!!

Aug 24, 2024

What a fantastic museum. Before visiting, I had no idea how important pigeons were to US military operations well into the 1950s. The museum also has exhibits on pigeon racing and breeding and a lot of pigeon art! There are also different types of live pigeons on display.

Aug 07, 2024

This museum is a beautiful hidden gem of OKC! We came upon this place unexpectedly and were instantly enamored and charmed. Misconceptions and stigmas about pigeons were broken down as we bounced through this beautiful, quaint museum. We went on a Saturday morning, and there was a museum attendant and a volunteer (I think), who were both extremely friendly and knowledgeable. They were very kind and patient with our rowdy group (kids). On that note, there is a cool, interactive area for children to color and such. But the best part was, of course, the LIVE FANCY PIGEONS THAT YOU GET TO HOLD AND SEE!! They are the best, and the attendant and volunteer were so helpful, knowledgeable, and engaging. The man, whose name I forgot (sorry), did an amazing job explaining many aspects of the pigeons, their characteristics, and history. Fun place for the whole fam. 10/10 would recommend again.

Oct 05, 2024