Wichita Mountain Fun is a new book released by Frank Rush III, son of E. Frank Rush and grandson of Frank S. Rush. The family lived in the Wichita Mountain range for nearly six decades (1901-1966), leaving an indelible mark on Southwest Oklahoma.
The interesting history of the early days of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge was greatly influenced and directed by granddad Frank S. Rush. In 1907, the elder Rush was appointed by President Theodore Roosevelt to be the first Forest Supervisor of the Forest Reserve. He was assigned the notable task of reestablishing the Buffalo herd to their native Wichita Mountains.
After retirement Frank S Rush and his son, E Frank Rush owned and operated Craterville Park, first at the original location just north of Cache, Oklahoma, and later at the new Craterville Park near Quartz Mountain State Park, north of Altus and south of Lone Wolf from 1923 until 1966.
The extensive history of those two parks left behind Golden Memories for almost every person living in Southwest Oklahoma at the time. Historic Indian powwows, early-day rodeos, an impressive list of entertainers and a wide variety of family-themed attractions made Craterville Park the premier family entertainment venue in the area.
The private collection of Rush family memorabilia, historic pictures and printed accounts has been compiled into a compelling book by grandson Frank Rush III.
According to Rush, “I grew up witnessing and enjoying the excitement of a seemingly endless variety of fun and entertainment of our family business. Like the people whovisited Craterville Park, I am amazed at all they accomplished and they created joy and golden memories in the process.”
The Kiowa County Genealogical Society, Kiowa County Historical Society and the Hobart Public Library will host a conversation and book signing by Frank Rush III on Tuesday, February 4th at 2:00 p.m. upstairs at the Hobart Public Library, 200 S Main Street. The event is free and open to the public. You are invited to bring Craterville Park pictures or memorabilia and join the fun. Copies of Wichita Mountain Fun will be available for purchase, or contact frankrush3@ gmail.com.