Second victim identified from the Tulsa Race Massacre

Q: What recent discovery has been made regarding the Tulsa Race Massacre?

A: Researchers have identified a second victim of the Tulsa Race Massacre, and evidence suggests that more victims may be buried at Oaklawn Cemetery.

Q: Who is the second victim confirmed?

A: The second identified victim is George Melvin Gillespie, a late-to-middle-aged man buried in a wooden casket with no signs of trauma.

Q: What do genealogists need to confirm about Gillespie?

A: Genealogists aim to determine whether George Melvin Gillespie was killed during the massacre.

Q: Who is the other victim identified, and what is known about him?

A: James Goings is the first victim identified, although his remains have not yet been found. His confirmation comes from government documents.

Q: What did Mayor Monroe Nichols say about the information gathered?

A: Mayor Monroe Nichols mentioned that there is substantial information about the victims, with three letters being particularly convincing in identifying them.

Q: What insights did Dr. Kary Stackelbeck provide regarding the mass graves?

A: Dr. Stackelbeck explained that 28 individuals found in the mass graves stand out due to signs of trauma or being buried in wooden containers, highlighting potential massacre victims.

Q: How does the research team differentiate between massacre victims and non-victims?

A: The team uses historical context to identify burials that are likely victims of the massacre, guiding decisions on exhumation and forensic analysis.

Q: What is Brenda Nails Alford’s perspective as a member of the mass graves team?

A: Brenda Alford, a Greenwood native and descendant of massacre victims, expressed gratitude for the investigation, emphasizing the importance of uncovering history for families and the community.

Q: What does Mayor Monroe Nichols believe about the potential for more victims?

A: Mayor Nichols is optimistic that more victims will be found at Oaklawn, stating that current findings indicate they are on the right track to uncover the truth.

Q: What are the next steps for the mass graves team?

A: The mass graves team plans to return to Oaklawn Cemetery in late summer or early fall, contingent on budget availability.

Q: How can the public contribute to identifying more victims?

A: Forensic teams are encouraging public participation in DNA testing and workshops. One workshop is scheduled for this weekend. You can find more information here.

Related: New Tulsa Race Massacre victim identified in Oaklawn Cemetery mass grave research efforts