In the late 19th century, a young girl named Ora V. Eddleman embarked on a journey that would leave an unforgettable mark on American Indian journalism and literature.
Born on September 17, 1880, near Denton, Texas, Ora was the eighth of nine children in the Eddleman family. In 1894, the family moved to Muskogee, Indian Territory, a move that would set the stage for Ora's illustrious career.
At the age of 17, Ora found herself juggling school and work as her family purchased the Muskogee Morning Times, the first daily newspaper in the area. It was in the bustling environment of the newsroom that Ora discovered her passion for journalism.
Her talent and dedication quickly shone through, leading her to the position of editor for the monthly magazine Twin Territories: The Indian Magazine, which debuted in December 1898.
Ora's petite stature, standing at just around 100 pounds, belied her powerful voice and influence. Writing under the pseudonym Mignon Schreiber, which translates to "little writer," she dedicated herself to dispelling myths about Cherokee culture and preserving the rich lore and legends of her people.
Ora was not content to merely share her own stories; she also invited contributions from other notable American Indian authors, including Creek poet Alexander Posey and Cherokee writer Joshua Ross.
On April 6, 1904, Ora married Charles Reed, a Kansas City journalist and Associated Press correspondent. With her marriage came a new chapter in her life, one that saw her stepping back from her role at Twin Territories, which published its final issue in May 1904.
However, Ora's passion for journalism remained unwavering. From September 1905 to November 1906, she served as the editor of the "Indian Department" in Sturm's Statehood Magazine, where she continued her mission to promote Indian culture and literature.
Ora Eddleman Reed's contributions extended far beyond her written words. In 1900, she became one of the youngest and the only female member of the Indian Territory Press Association, serving as its treasurer in 1903.
Her columns were noted for their humor. She also wrote short stories under the name "Mignon Schreiber". She published and promoted works by Native American authors including Mabel Washbourne Anderson, Charles Gibson, John Rollin Ridge, and Alexander Posey.
She wrote an unpublished novel, Where the Big Woods Beckon, and an unadapted screenplay, Night Brings Out the Stars.
Reed was an active member of the Indian Territory Press Association. She was president of the Yellowstone chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy in 1929 and 193.
She was also a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Oklahoma Historical Society. She became active in radio in Casper, Wyoming, in the 1930s, hosting a half-hour talk show and dispensing advice as "the Sunshine Lady". She has been described as "the first Native American broadcaster" and "the first Native American talk show host".
Ora's legacy as a trailblazer in American Indian journalism and literature continues to be celebrated. Her efforts in recording and preserving the history and culture of American Indians at the turn of the 20th century have cemented her place in history.
After a long and impactful life, Ora Reed passed away on June 19, 1968, in a Tulsa nursing home. She was laid to rest in c in Muskogee, a testament to her lasting connection to the community she loved and served.
