RSVP takes Mystery Trip

Retired Senior Volunteers Program members from the tri-county area partcipated in a "Mystery Trip" Wednesday, Nov. 12. Thirty-two volunteers and three representatives boarded a chartered bus around 9:30 a.m. The bus headed south toward Oklahoma and their first stop was at the boyhood ranch of Will Rogers. The ranch is called "Dog Iron Ranch" and is located in Oologah, Okla. Lunch was served in a newly renovated barn on the property with a picturesque view of Lake Oologah. The Chamber of Commerce from Claremore prepared and catered the food.

After our tour through the home, we proceeded to the Will Rogers Historical Museum in Claremore.

Andy, representing the museum, gave us historical facts about Will Rogers. He told us of the life, wisdom and humor of Will, Cherokee Cowboy. Will had a passion as a family man, trick roper, actor and philanthropist. We marveled at the saddles, art memorabilia and interactive exhibits and watched one of his 71 motion pictures.

From there, we went to the Belvidere Mansion built in the 1900's by the late John Bayless in Claremore. The Mansion is listed on the National Registry of Historical Places and features 9,000 square feet of living space.

Heading back to Chanute, we stopped in Coffeyville for an early meal and continued back to Chanute. The trip was enjoyed by all and more trips are planned by RSVP. For information about trips and volunteer services call RSVP at (620) 431-7401, ext. 222.