Talking Cherokee
In 1876, a 16-year-old named Ed Hicks saw Alexander Graham Bell unveil his new invention, the telephone, at the St. Louis Exposition. It was there that Ed decided he would bring this novel method of communication to his tribe, the Cherokee Nation. Ten years later, Ed's dream came true and he laid the first civilian telephone line not only in Oklahoma, but the first line west of the Mississippi River. This week on LoyalTV, join us in Tahlequah for a look at Ed's quest and success!
Explore Oklahoma
In every place, we discover tales waiting to be shared, weaving together the rich history, vibrant present, and promising future of BancFirst communities across Oklahoma.