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10 Shocking Secrets Of The Mabee-Gerrer Museum Of Art: Oklahoma's Hidden World-Class Collection

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Step into a time capsule. As of late 2025, the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art (MGMoA) in Shawnee, Oklahoma, continues to defy expectations, operating as one of the state's oldest and most globally significant cultural institutions. This unassuming museum holds a collection so vast and diverse—spanning over 8,000 years of human history—that only a fraction of its 6,000-plus artifacts can be displayed at any given time. Its resilience, especially following the closure of its longtime host university, is a testament to the vision of its founder and the enduring power of its world-class exhibits.

The MGMoA is not just a local attraction; it is a vital piece of Oklahoma history and a global repository of art and antiquities, making it a mandatory stop for anyone seeking genuine topical authority on ancient cultures, European masters, and unique artifacts collected by a single, remarkable Benedictine Monk.

The Remarkable Life and Legacy of Father Gregory Gerrer

The entire existence of the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art is inextricably linked to the extraordinary life of its founder, Father Gregory Gerrer (1867–1946). Born Joseph Gerrer in Alsace-Lorraine, he became a Benedictine Monk and a prolific artist, musician, and, most importantly, a passionate collector.

  • Full Name: Father Gregory Gerrer, O.S.B. (Order of Saint Benedict)
  • Born: 1867, Alsace-Lorraine (a region historically contested between France and Germany)
  • Died: 1946
  • Vocation: Benedictine Monk, artist, musician, and polymath.
  • Museum Founding Year: 1919 (making it one of Oklahoma's oldest museums)
  • Collecting Philosophy: Gerrer traveled extensively throughout his life, including trips to Europe, Africa, and South America, gathering artifacts and artworks from various cultures and time periods.
  • Artistic Contribution: Father Gregory Gerrer was a painter himself, and his artwork is included in the museum’s permanent collection. He is also known for painting the official portrait of Pope Pius X.

Gerrer's travels were not typical tourist excursions; they were focused expeditions to bring the history and art of distant places back to the heart of Shawnee, Oklahoma. This global perspective is what defines the museum and gives it its unique, eclectic character.

The World's Oldest Secrets Hidden in Shawnee, Oklahoma

The Mabee-Gerrer Museum’s collection is renowned for its sheer diversity, spanning more than 8,000 years of human creativity and history. While many regional museums focus on local history, the MGMoA presents a global panorama, a testament to Father Gerrer's incredible collecting ambition. The collection consists of over 6,000 items, with only a small percentage on display at any time.

Unveiling Oklahoma's Only Egyptian Mummies: Tutu and Friends

The most famous and often-cited artifacts are the museum's ancient Egyptian mummies—the only ones housed in Oklahoma.

  • The Mummy Tutu: One of the most prominent mummies is named Tutu. Her presence is a major draw, offering an unparalleled opportunity to study ancient Egyptian mortuary practices outside of major metropolitan centers.
  • Artifacts: The Egyptian collection also includes other artifacts such as canopic jars, shabti figures, and funerary masks, providing context for the mummies' burial traditions.

A Global Cabinet of Curiosities

Beyond ancient Egypt, the permanent collection is a breathtaking journey through time and culture. Visitors can find themselves moving from the Mesopotamian era to the Baroque period in a single hallway.

  • Ancient World: Look for rare cuneiform tablets from Mesopotamia, artifacts from ancient Greece and Rome, and unique Etruscan treasures.
  • Medieval and Renaissance Art: The museum has significant holdings of art from the Renaissance through the early 20th century, including an elegant, 14th-century ivory triptych from France.
  • The Bizarre and Unique: Father Gerrer's eclectic tastes led to the acquisition of truly unusual items, such as a Samurai helmet and a pair of shrunken human heads from South America, which are often cited as among the collection's most fascinating, if unsettling, pieces.
  • African and Native American Art: The collection also features a large number of African tribal items and Native American artifacts, reflecting a commitment to global and regional cultural history.

The Mabee-Gerrer Museum’s New Chapter and 2025 Updates

The museum’s location history is a critical piece of its recent narrative, providing essential context for its current operation. For decades, the MGMoA was located on the campus of St. Gregory's University (SGU), a central part of the Benedictine Abbey in Shawnee.

Navigating the University Transition

When St. Gregory's University closed its doors, the fate of the museum was uncertain. However, the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art remains fully operational and is an independent, non-profit entity separate from the university. The museum is now situated on the property known as the OBU Green Campus, following a land exchange deal with Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU), ensuring the preservation of the museum and its priceless collection. This transition is a major update, confirming the museum's stability and continued access for the public.

Current and Upcoming Exhibits (Late 2025)

The museum is known for hosting dynamic, changing contemporary exhibits alongside its permanent collection. These temporary shows ensure the MGMoA remains a fresh destination for repeat visitors.

  • Recent Highlights: An exhibit titled "Good Vibrations: The Prints of Victor Vasarely" has been noted as a significant recent presentation, showcasing the works of the Hungarian-French artist known as the father of Op Art.
  • Community Outreach: In a move to increase accessibility, the museum has recently offered periods of free admission, such as during the month of June, demonstrating a commitment to serving the Shawnee and surrounding Pottawatomie County communities.
  • Educational Hub: The MGMoA continues to serve as a vital educational hub, offering a range of programs for all ages, from school tours to adult lectures, solidifying its role as a cultural anchor in Central Oklahoma.

Planning Your Visit: Why the MGMoA is a Must-See

For art historians, history buffs, and curious travelers, the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art offers a unique blend of high art and historical oddities rarely found under one roof. It is a true hidden jewel of the American Midwest.

The intimate setting of the museum allows for a deeper, more personal connection with the artifacts than is often possible in larger metropolitan institutions. Whether you are interested in Medieval European history, ancient Egyptian culture, or the story of a single Benedictine Monk who brought the world to Oklahoma, the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art offers a profoundly rewarding cultural experience. Be sure to check their official website for the most current operating hours and upcoming exhibit schedules.

10 Shocking Secrets of the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art: Oklahoma's Hidden World-Class Collection
mabee gerrer museum shawnee
mabee gerrer museum shawnee

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