In Indian Territory, before the allotment of lands, before statehood - the mixture of races was unique as it still is in Eastern Oklahoma. The people in Indian Territory were mixes of Indian, Black and Anglo. They were industrious and usually prosperous. We were always told about how Indian Territory was used by “lawless” men to escape and we are never told about the abundant crops of wheat, cotton and corn produced and marketed. Education, business, agriculture and human potential were thriving in Indian Territory. Respect among the races did exist and there were no laws to hinder another person’s growth. Neighbors helped neighbors when crops were ready to harvest.
