𝐉𝐨𝐡𝐧 𝐋𝐚𝐲𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐝: 𝐎𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲’𝐬 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐒𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐟 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐫
Born: November 22, 1864, Rockport, Missouri
Died: January 1935, Pawhuska, Oklahoma
John Layman Bird was a pioneer of uncommon integrity whose legacy shaped the legal, commercial, and civic foundation of early Osage County, Oklahoma. As the county’s first elected sheriff, a successful frontier trader, and later a banking leader, Bird left behind a legacy of public trust, fair governance, and economic development that endured far beyond his time.
𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐓𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲
Bird was born in Missouri just after the Civil War. In 1883, at the age of 18, he was encouraged by his brother—a physician working among the Kaw Nation—to seek opportunity in Indian Territory. He soon found work as a clerk at a Kaw trading post, immersing himself in the diverse cultures and frontier economy of the region.
By January 1885, Bird had relocated to Pawhuska, where he worked with the respected trading firm Dunlap & Florer. Over time, he married the daughter of partner John N. Florer and became a business associate in the rebranded Florer & Bird, operating a general store in Gray Horse and managing a successful cattle ranch. His reputation for fairness and transparency won him lasting respect from both Native and non-Native residents.
𝐒𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐟 𝐨𝐟 𝐎𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲
With statehood on the horizon in 1907, Bird announced his candidacy for Sheriff of Osage County as a Democrat. Already a respected businessman and civic leader, his reputation helped him win the confidence of voters across the sprawling and often unruly county.
Bird’s election marked a crucial transition from territorial law enforcement to state-regulated justice. Known for measured judgment and a calm demeanor, Bird brought a sense of order that was sorely needed in the rough-and-tumble oil frontier.
A local newspaper endorsed him with these words:
“Not one word can be said against John Bird. He is honest and fair… His presence in the sheriff’s office will do more toward securing good order in Osage County than all the pistol toters that can be stacked in the office.”
Bird served as sheriff until 1909, when he voluntarily stepped down to pursue growing business interests in banking. Bird’s predecessor as Osage County Sheriff was R.A. Carrell from 1910-1911.
𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐜 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩
Bird’s return to the private sector was no less impactful. In 1906, he helped found the Fairfax National Bank, serving as its first president. After his tenure as sheriff, he and his partners purchased the City National Bank of Pawhuska, where Bird served as vice president.
Through both institutions, he played a vital role in financing ranches, oil development, and local businesses during the early 20th-century boom. His leadership helped stabilize and grow the local economy during periods of rapid expansion and later, economic uncertainty.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠: 𝐀 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐚𝐰𝐡𝐮𝐬𝐤𝐚’𝐬 𝐒𝐤𝐲𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞
One of Bird’s most enduring contributions to Pawhuska was the development of the city’s first "skyscraper"—the Triangle Building, currently operated as the Frontier Hotel.
In 1910, U.S. Indian Agent Hugh Pitzer advertised the sale of a triangular public plot at the heart of Pawhuska. Bird placed the winning bid of $12,500, acquiring the land between Main Street, Kihekah Avenue, and Osage Street. Despite legal disputes between federal and local authorities, Bird pressed forward with plans to erect a modern commercial building on the site.
By 1913, construction began, and by November 1914, the completed Triangle Building featured elevator service and five stories, two more than originally planned. The first floor housed retail shops, while professionals, including doctors and lawyers, occupied the upper floors. The building became a symbol of Pawhuska’s modernization and Bird’s forward-thinking vision.
𝐋𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐋𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐜𝐲
John L. Bird remained a central figure in Pawhuska's civic and business life until his death in January 1935 at the age of 70. In his later years, he lived in the basement apartment in the Triangle Building—a structure that stood as a testament to his commitment to Osage County’s future.
… See MoreSee Less
2 weeks ago
🚓🎓 Huge Congratulations to Lane Decker and RJ McCann! 🎉👏
We’re proud to recognize Lane and RJ on their graduation from the CLEET Basic Academy! Your commitment, discipline, and dedication to serving with integrity are truly commendable.
You’ve stepped up to take on a vital role in protecting and supporting our communities — and we couldn't be prouder. Here’s to a future of strong leadership and honorable service. … See MoreSee Less
11 CommentsComment on Facebook
Welcome to the 79th Annual Cavalcade Rodeo in Pawhuska!
The Osage County Sheriff's Office would like to welcome all contestants, spectators, and visitors to the world's largest amateur Cavalcade Rodeo! Cavalcade is a proud Osage County tradition, bringing spectators and visitors from all of the world to Pawhuska each year for a celebration of Western heritage and community spirit.
This week-long event features 9 exciting rodeo performances and 5 nights of red dirt music and dance under the stars—a true showcase of the Old West and Oklahoma pride.
Our deputies will be on location throughout the week to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. As you celebrate, please be responsible. If you plan to drink, have a plan and a sober driver.
Let’s make it a memorable, safe, and fun Cavalcade.
Sheriff Bart Perrier … See MoreSee Less
4 CommentsComment on Facebook
OCSO monthly stats for June! … See MoreSee Less
6 CommentsComment on Facebook
𝐉𝐨𝐡𝐧 𝐋𝐚𝐲𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐝: 𝐎𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲’𝐬 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐒𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐟 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐫
Born: November 22, 1864, Rockport, Missouri
Died: January 1935, Pawhuska, Oklahoma
John Layman Bird was a pioneer of uncommon integrity whose legacy shaped the legal, commercial, and civic foundation of early Osage County, Oklahoma. As the county’s first elected sheriff, a successful frontier trader, and later a banking leader, Bird left behind a legacy of public trust, fair governance, and economic development that endured far beyond his time.
𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐓𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲
Bird was born in Missouri just after the Civil War. In 1883, at the age of 18, he was encouraged by his brother—a physician working among the Kaw Nation—to seek opportunity in Indian Territory. He soon found work as a clerk at a Kaw trading post, immersing himself in the diverse cultures and frontier economy of the region.
By January 1885, Bird had relocated to Pawhuska, where he worked with the respected trading firm Dunlap & Florer. Over time, he married the daughter of partner John N. Florer and became a business associate in the rebranded Florer & Bird, operating a general store in Gray Horse and managing a successful cattle ranch. His reputation for fairness and transparency won him lasting respect from both Native and non-Native residents.
𝐒𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐟 𝐨𝐟 𝐎𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲
With statehood on the horizon in 1907, Bird announced his candidacy for Sheriff of Osage County as a Democrat. Already a respected businessman and civic leader, his reputation helped him win the confidence of voters across the sprawling and often unruly county.
Bird’s election marked a crucial transition from territorial law enforcement to state-regulated justice. Known for measured judgment and a calm demeanor, Bird brought a sense of order that was sorely needed in the rough-and-tumble oil frontier.
A local newspaper endorsed him with these words:
“Not one word can be said against John Bird. He is honest and fair… His presence in the sheriff’s office will do more toward securing good order in Osage County than all the pistol toters that can be stacked in the office.”
Bird served as sheriff until 1909, when he voluntarily stepped down to pursue growing business interests in banking. Bird’s predecessor as Osage County Sheriff was R.A. Carrell from 1910-1911.
𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐜 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩
Bird’s return to the private sector was no less impactful. In 1906, he helped found the Fairfax National Bank, serving as its first president. After his tenure as sheriff, he and his partners purchased the City National Bank of Pawhuska, where Bird served as vice president.
Through both institutions, he played a vital role in financing ranches, oil development, and local businesses during the early 20th-century boom. His leadership helped stabilize and grow the local economy during periods of rapid expansion and later, economic uncertainty.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠: 𝐀 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐚𝐰𝐡𝐮𝐬𝐤𝐚’𝐬 𝐒𝐤𝐲𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞
One of Bird’s most enduring contributions to Pawhuska was the development of the city’s first "skyscraper"—the Triangle Building, currently operated as the Frontier Hotel.
In 1910, U.S. Indian Agent Hugh Pitzer advertised the sale of a triangular public plot at the heart of Pawhuska. Bird placed the winning bid of $12,500, acquiring the land between Main Street, Kihekah Avenue, and Osage Street. Despite legal disputes between federal and local authorities, Bird pressed forward with plans to erect a modern commercial building on the site.
By 1913, construction began, and by November 1914, the completed Triangle Building featured elevator service and five stories, two more than originally planned. The first floor housed retail shops, while professionals, including doctors and lawyers, occupied the upper floors. The building became a symbol of Pawhuska’s modernization and Bird’s forward-thinking vision.
𝐋𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐋𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐜𝐲
John L. Bird remained a central figure in Pawhuska's civic and business life until his death in January 1935 at the age of 70. In his later years, he lived in the basement apartment in the Triangle Building—a structure that stood as a testament to his commitment to Osage County’s future. … See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
🇺🇸 Happy Independence Day 🇺🇸
As we celebrate the birth of our great nation, we encourage everyone to enjoy the holiday responsibly. Deputies will be out across the county, especially around lakes and community events, to help ensure a safe and enjoyable weekend for all.
Let’s make this a safe and memorable 4th of July.
— Sheriff Bart Perrier
Osage County Sheriff’s Office … See MoreSee Less
1 CommentsComment on Facebook
𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫
As we gear up to celebrate this Independence Day weekend with family, food, fun, and fireworks, the Osage County Sheriff’s Office urges everyone to celebrate safely and responsibly.
Deputies will be actively patrolling area lakes in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Rangers and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol’s Marine Enforcement Division. Our focus will include enforcing alcohol laws both on the water and on the road.
🚓 𝐃𝐫𝐮𝐧𝐤 𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐥𝐲— if you plan to drink, never get behind the wheel of a car or a boat. Designate a sober driver or make alternate plans to get home safely.
🛟 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐧 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐣𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐨𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐫 𝐬𝐰𝐢𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 — it’s the law and could save a life.
🚤 𝐀𝐥𝐜𝐨𝐡𝐨𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐝𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐦𝐢𝐱. 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐛𝐨𝐚𝐭 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐬 𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐬 — and illegal — as driving drunk.
🎇Let’s work together to make this 4th of July holiday one to remember for all the right reasons. Stay safe and enjoy the celebration weekend! … See MoreSee Less
3 CommentsComment on Facebook
‼️‼️UPDATE 6/29/25 at 3:35 pm, this juvenille has been located‼️‼️
🚨 Runaway Juvenile Alert 🚨
Osage County Sheriff's Office
The Osage County Sheriff’s Office is currently seeking the public’s assistance in locating a reported runaway juvenile:
Name: Skylee Alpine Smithey
Race: White
Sex: Female
Age: (15 years old)
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 120-125 lbs
Hair: Blonde
Eyes: Brown
Skylee was last seen at approximately 8:00 p.m. on June 28, 2025, at a residence located on 124th W. Ave, Skiatook, Oklahoma (Osage County).
She was wearing a navy-blue hoodie, light gray jogging pants, and Nike crew socks.
If you have any information on her whereabouts, please contact the Osage County Sheriff’s Office at (918) 287-3131 or your local law enforcement agency immediately. … See MoreSee Less
58 CommentsComment on Facebook
‼️‼️UPDATE 9:46 PM, JUVENILLE HAS BEEN LOCATED‼️‼️
🚨 MISSING CHILD ALERT 🚨
The Osage County Sheriff's Office is currently searching for Alora Ann Shorb, age 10, who was last seen at approximately 4:15 PM on June 28th, 2025, at her residence located at 415 Dayton Ave, Webb City. (Between Shidler and Ponca City, OK.)
Description:
Name: 𝐀𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐚 𝐀𝐧𝐧 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐛 (𝟭𝟬 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝗹𝗱)
Height: 𝟰’𝟮”
Weight: 𝟭𝟬𝟬 𝗹𝗯𝘀
Hair: 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘆 𝗯𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗲
Eyes: 𝗕𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗻
Last seen wearing: 𝗟𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝘁-𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗿𝘁, w𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝗴𝗮 𝗽𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗯𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗽𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁-𝘀𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻
If you have any information regarding Alora’s whereabouts, please contact the Osage County Sheriff's Office immediately at 𝟵𝟭𝟴-𝟮𝟴𝟳-𝟯𝟭𝟯𝟭 𝗼𝗿 𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝟵𝟭𝟭.
Please share and help bring Alora home safely. … See MoreSee Less
102 CommentsComment on Facebook