City of Tulsa Provides Significant Archeological, DNA Updates in 1921 Graves Investigation

City Announces Intent to Return to Oaklawn Cemetery; Second Identification Made at Oaklawn Cemetery; Additional Tulsa Race Massacre Victim Identified through Historical Records

Today, the City of Tulsa shared historic updates from the 1921 Graves Investigation, including the groundbreaking news of the second identification from Oaklawn Cemetery in addition to a newly found Tulsa Race Massacre victim through historical research. Experts also shared evidence that more Tulsa Race Massacre victims could be at Oaklawn Cemetery, showcasing the need to return to Oaklawn Cemetery for a 2025 excavation.

“From the start, our search for those buried in mass graves as a result of the Tulsa Race Massacre has been about bringing closure to families and repair to our city,” Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols said. “As we look to further our work at Oaklawn Cemetery and the genealogical and historical work that is helping further shape our history, I’m reminded that power lies in community. Tulsa is a city of faith and our faith drives us to do what is necessary even if it is tough. We are facing tough truths, but we’re doing it together in solidarity. I’m so grateful for the outpouring of support to these families from the broader community; it is what sets us apart from other places. Tulsa is a great city and we prove it time and time again. This investigation is a reflection of our courage, our greatness and our commitment to repair.”

Two major tracks of work guide the City’s 1921 Graves Investigation: the first is the fieldwork that is conducted by archeological experts; and second is the DNA and genealogical track to identify victims from the fieldwork.

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Confirmed Burial from Oaklawn Cemetery

George Melvin Gillispie – Burial 180 (Context of death unknown but cannot be ruled out as a Tulsa Race Massacre victim)

Using genetic genealogy, it’s believed that Burial 180 in Oaklawn Cemetery belongs to that of George Melvin Gillispie – a late-to-middle aged male buried in a simple wooden casket with no evidence of trauma (of note, C. L. Daniel did not have evidence of observed trauma, but he is a Tulsa Race Massacre victim).

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Newly Confirmed Tulsa Race Massacre Victim

James Goings, according to records obtained from the Veterans Administration, is the second new Tulsa Race Massacre victim that has been confirmed since the City’s renewed search for answers.

While the surnames for James Goings overlap with surnames of interest for Burial 135, there is no DNA, yet, that ties James Goings to a specific burial at Oaklawn Cemetery.

Check out the press release and post by Mayor Nichols.

The Black Wall Street Times has more information, including Gillespie’s photo.

Follow progress in this case on our breaking news page.