OETA Announces Premiere Screening of Back in Time: “Alfalfa Bill”

Oklahoma City, OK – April 7, 2025 – The Oklahoma Educational Television Authority (OETA), in partnership with the Oklahoma Historical Society (OHS), is pleased to invite the public to an exclusive premiere screening and panel discussion of the upcoming Back In Time episode, Alfalfa Bill. This event will take place on April 10, 2025, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Oklahoma History Center, located at 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive, Oklahoma City, OK 73105.

Back In Time is OETA’s award-winning documentary series that delves into significant people, events, and stories that have shaped Oklahoma’s history. The forthcoming episode, Alfalfa Bill, explores the controversial life and legacy of William H. “Alfalfa Bill” Murray, Oklahoma’s ninth governor, whose fiery populist rhetoric, strong stances on farming, racial bias, and opposition to FDR’s New Deal made him a towering and polarizing figure in the state’s history.

The episode examines Murray’s role in the Red River War, his controversial policies, and his frequent use of the National Guard to enforce his mandates. It also sheds light on his influence in shaping Oklahoma’s political landscape. Known for his dramatic and often unpredictable leadership, Alfalfa Bill remains one of the most enigmatic and influential figures in Oklahoma’s past.

The screening will be followed by a panel discussion featuring the episode’s host and a distinguished panel of experts who will provide deeper insights into Murray’s impact on Oklahoma and beyond. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with historians and scholars to discuss his legacy. 

Panelists include:

• Dr. Bob Blackburn – Former Executive Director of the Oklahoma Historical Society

• Dr. Kirk Rodden – Emeritus Professor at Murray State College

• Bob Burke – Attorney, Author & Historian

• Moderated by Robert Burch – Host of Back In Time

Back In Time: Alfalfa Bill is scheduled to air on OETA on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. However, this special event provides an exclusive first look for history enthusiasts and the general public.

Event Details:

Date: Wednesday, April 10, 2025

Time: 1:00 to 3:00 PM

Location: The Oklahoma History Center, Oklahoma City

Registration: https://bit.ly/BITAlfalfaBill

This event is free and open to the public.

About OETA

OETA provides essential educational content and services that inform, inspire and connect Oklahomans to ideas and information that enrich our quality of life. We do this by consistently engaging Oklahomans with educational and public television programming, providing educational training and curriculum, outreach initiatives and online features that collectively encourage lifelong learning. For more information about education curriculum and programs, local productions, digital television, community resources and show schedules explore OETA.tv.

About OHS

The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve, and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people. Founded in 1893 by members of the Territorial Press Association, the OHS maintains museums, historic sites, and affiliates across the state. Through its research archives, exhibits, educational programs, and publications, the OHS chronicles the rich history of our state.