Conversations with Michael Wallis: Discussion and Book Signing

The Oklahoma History Center Museum will host a free discussion and book signing with Michael Wallis for his new book Belle Starr: The Truth Behind the Wild West Legend (2025, Liveright Publishing) on Saturday, August 2, from 2 to 4 p.m. Ken Busby will moderate the discussion.

Belle Starr, born as Myra Maybelle Shirley in 1848, was known as “the Bandit Queen.” She was linked to outlaws throughout her life and is now considered one of the most infamous female outlaws from the nineteenth century. Historians say her only documented crime was horse theft in 1883. She was shot and killed by an unknown assailant on February 3, 1889.

Wallis conducted extensive research to write this biography of the woman behind the renegade legend, including reviewing correspondence, official records, and contemporary newspaper accounts.

Copies of the book will be available for purchase through the Museum Store. No registration is required for this free event.