There is probably not an Oklahoman or a visitor to Oklahoma who hasn't wondered about the meaning or origin of the names of many of the cities and towns and other landmarks. Those names mirror the 46th state's diverse culture and unique history. They sing with the beauty of American Indian languages, reflect the hope or earthy humor of early settlers, or ring with the energy of entrepreneurs. In some instances, the record documenting the birth of an Oklahoma place name no longer exists - if it ever did. In others, the "official" version varies from local legend - or is greatly enlivened by it Respected Oklahoma author Jim Etter examines both history and folklore - and that intriguing blend of both - in this work that results from his years as a journalist whose work has taken him to hundreds of Oklahoma communities where he talked with - and listened to - thousands of Oklahomans. The result is a book that is both informative and entertaining and quintessentially Oklahoman - part fact, part fiction and bigger and better than either.

This unique book of fiction, with a foreword by actor Dale Robertson, breathes life into many of Oklahoma's fascinating facts. Stories inspired by incidents ranging in time from the 1860s to the 1990s awaken countless memories, and portray the Sooner State in its own beauty, ugliness and humor. The Chapters refer to such real people as Millie Durgan (Sain-toh-oodie or Mrs. Goombi), who was raised among the Kiowas; the Cook gang of Indian Territory outlaws; "Pretty Boy" Floyd; and "Pistol Pete"; and actual incidents and traditions like the major cattle trails; a memorable shooting in the Panhandle; the Quadruple lynching in an Ada livery barn; the 1978 fatal shoot-out between Oklahoma Highway Patrolmen and prison escapees; the days of traveling horse traders and outdoor picture shows; the humorous background of the annual Sucker Day in Wetumka; and the terrible day of April 19, 1995, in Oklahoma City.

A new and bigger edition of this popular collection of homegrown expressions and euphemisms that have distinguished the speech of Oklahoma folks for a coon's age and may do so 'till the cows come home. Take the bull by the horns and buy this book, and you'll be grinnin' like a possum eatin' persimmons.

A rare collection of accounts of incidents and legends throughout the state - intriguing bits of the past generally not found in conventional works of history. Used in some schools as a teaching aid. Included in the 26 chapters are descriptions of a crucial battle between Indians and Spaniards in 1759; a place where "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" was composed; the wild and woolly past of a town called Navajoe; a whiskey-smuggling scheme that set a train depot on fire; a young man who left the oil fields for Hollywood; a scary light that has haunted a lonely road for years; and where once a strange but lively party took place in a moonlit cemetery.