OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Merle Newby Buttram erle Newby Buttram Mwas one of the most influential contributors to the cultural development in the state of Oklahoma. Her devotion to music, civic engagement, and community service still touches the lives of Oklahomans today. Fifty years after her passing her vision for a culturally rich and vibrant community continues through schools, museums, and performing arts venues. Merle once said, “One’s great honor is to have time and opportunity to work on the many community needs. Their realization is their reward.” Merle Buttram, 1953. Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society. BY MATTIE P. BARLOW 48