The Oklahoma Historical Society will host author Caleb Gayle for a guest lecture, book signing and reception at the Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma City on Thursday, September 24, giving the public an opportunity to learn more about his book, Black Moses: A Saga of Ambition and the Fight for a Black State.
The free event is scheduled from 7 to 9 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Registration is requested for those planning to attend.
Guest Lecture Focuses on Black Moses
Gayle’s appearance will center on Black Moses, a historical work exploring ambition and the effort to establish a Black state. The lecture will provide attendees with an opportunity to hear directly from the author about the history and themes examined in the book.
The program comes as part of the Oklahoma Historical Society’s broader effort to make historical research and discussion accessible to the public through lectures, exhibitions and educational events.
Oklahoma holds an important place in Black American history, particularly through the development of historically Black communities and towns. The state’s history provides a relevant setting for discussions about Black political participation, economic opportunity, community development and efforts toward greater self-determination.
Gayle’s lecture is expected to place the subject of Black Moses within that broader historical context while giving visitors additional insight into the people, ambitions and circumstances examined in the book.
Question-and-Answer Session to Follow Lecture
After the lecture, the Oklahoma Historical Society will hold a question-and-answer session with Gayle.
The session will allow audience members to engage directly with the author and explore subjects raised during the presentation. It will also provide an opportunity to learn more about the research and historical context behind Black Moses.
The interactive portion of the program expands the event beyond a traditional author presentation, allowing attendees to participate in a broader discussion of the book and its historical themes.
Book Signing and Reception Planned
A book signing and reception will take place after the question-and-answer session.
Copies of Black Moses will be available for purchase during the event, and attendees will have an opportunity to have their copies signed by Gayle.
The reception will conclude the evening’s program, providing additional time for attendees to engage with the event and its subject matter.
By combining a lecture, public discussion, book signing and reception, the Oklahoma Historical Society is offering several ways for visitors to explore the historical material presented in Gayle’s work.
Oklahoma Historical Society Offers Free Public Program
The September 24 event is free and open to the public, making the program accessible to residents and visitors interested in Oklahoma and American history.
The Oklahoma History Center regularly serves as a venue for exhibitions, educational programs and public discussions focused on the people and events that have shaped the state. Programs featuring historians, researchers and authors provide another way for the institution to connect historical scholarship with a wider audience.
Gayle’s appearance will add a literary component to that programming while addressing historical questions involving political power, race, ambition and community-building in the United States.
Doors at the Oklahoma History Center will open at 6:30 p.m. on September 24, with the guest lecture beginning at 7 p.m. The question-and-answer session, book signing and reception will follow, with the overall program scheduled to conclude at 9 p.m.
Although admission is free, the Oklahoma Historical Society is requesting registration in advance to help organizers prepare for attendance.
