Monument honors early OKC leader C.G. Jones

A new bronze monument at OKC Fair Park has been placed to honor Charles Gasham “Gristmill” Jones, a key figure in Oklahoma City’s early development and the Oklahoma Territory’s political history. 

Born Nov. 3, 1856, in Illinois, Jones moved to the Oklahoma Territory and quickly became a prominent civic and business leader. He built the first flour mill in OKC, supported local agriculture and served in both territorial and state government. Jones helped attract railroads and industry, played a key role in moving the state capitol to OKC in 1910 and was twice elected mayor. 

“The successful Oklahoma County and Oklahoma City we know today is in large measure the result of the work of C.G. “Gristmill” Jones over 100 years ago,” said Oklahoma County Commissioner Brian Maughan, who also serves on the Historical Society board. “He was a leader in moving the state capitol to Oklahoma City, a champion of economic development by bringing railroads and much-needed industry, creating thousands of jobs, and dedicated himself to civic service and leadership. As a founder of the State Fair, it is fitting that his statue is now erected at State Fair Park.” 

The OKC-County Historical Society donated the new monument and plaza, located northeast of the Bennett Event Center and south of the Centennial Building at OKC Fair Park. 

“I consider Mr. Jones to be a forgotten State Builder,” said Randall McMillan, OKC-County Historical Society board member and C.G. Jones historian. Everything he accomplished was for the betterment of the Territory/State of Oklahoma and Oklahoma City.” 

Along with such achievements as above, Jones’ contributions also include: 

• Served in the 1st, 5th and 6th Territorial Legislatures and as speaker of the House in 1891 
• Founded the towns of Mustang and Jones 
• Founded and led the Fair Association of Oklahoma 
• Helped develop railroad infrastructure across the territory 
• Chaired the Single Statehood Committee 
• Helped bring meatpacking companies to the Stockyards, creating thousands of jobs 

OKC sculptor LaQuincey Reed created the life-size bronze sculpture. Reed, a University of Oklahoma graduate and member of the National Sculpture Society, has produced public art across the state. His work includes pieces at the Oklahoma State Capitol and the Land Run Monument. 

“OKC mayors have been playing a key role in our city’s progress since 1889,” said OKC Mayor David Holt. “Even 114 years after death, Mayor Jones’ contributions are still foundational to the city we know today. I'm pleased we can recognize that legacy, which gives us a respect for history and inspires us to remember the impact that each of us can have on this community.”