Community connection
Activities have varied over the years but commonly include fundraisers, giveaways, bingo nights, outdoor activities for the kids, car shows and our Family reunions and homecoming gatherings.
The Bethel Missionary Baptist Church is one of the most historically significant landmarks in Tatums, one of Oklahoma's remaining historic All-Black towns. Completed in 1919, the church has served as a center of worship, fellowship, education, and community leadership for more than a century. It remains an important destination for visitors, historians, former residents, and descendants who gather during community celebrations such as T-Okie Weekend to honor the town's rich history and the generations who helped build and sustain it. Prayer walks, Worship and Gospel explosions Recognition of community leaders and elders.
Music, food, sports, and fellowship events.
The National T- Okie convention
National T-Okie Convention Weekend is a biennial homecoming and reunion celebration centered on the historic town of Tatums, one of Oklahoma's remaining historic all-Black towns. While the exact origins of the name are not extensively documented in published historical sources, the event developed as a way for former residents, descendants, and friends of Tatums to return home, celebrate their heritage, and maintain family and community ties.
The National T-Okie conventions includes
- Opening ceremonies and welcome events
- Community fellowship and family reunions
- Historical presentations about Tatums and its founders
- Church services and memorial recognitions
- Parade and community celebrations
- Banquets and awards programs
- Youth activities and cultural education
- Fundraising efforts that support community projects and preservation initiatives
- Recognition of elders, community leaders, and contributors
- Tatums Rodeo(a tradition during the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and even 2000’s).
Purpose of the Convention
The convention serves to:
- Preserve the history and legacy of Tatums.
- Strengthen connections among families with roots in the community.
- Promote civic engagement and community development.
- Support historical preservation efforts and future projects.
- Celebrate the accomplishments of past and present generations.
T-Okie is also connected with the most historically significant church in Tatums Bethel Baptist Church, commonly known as Bethel Missionary Baptist Church. During the T-Okie convention weekend we also include praise and worship services to conclude the weekend.
