Gloria Farley discovers the stone
As a child, local Heavener resident Gloria Farley encountered the massive stone. The unusual markings stayed with her and prompted her to return in the 1950s.
The Heavener Runestone
An enduring
Oklahoma mystery.
Eight markings cut into sandstone have drawn curiosity, scholarship, and travelers from around the world.
What we know
A stone with a story still unfolding.
The Heavener Runestone is a large sandstone bearing eight markings. Many researchers agree the marks are likely Elder Futhark runes made by Vikings or other Scandinavians between 600 and 800 AD, although the stone’s origins remain debated.
Once thought to contain a date, the inscription is now widely understood as a boundary marker or land claim. The eight runes are commonly translated as “Gnomedal” or “Glomedal”—“Little Valley” or “Valley owned by Glome.”
A park built by believers
From one girl’s fascination to a treasured public place.
Research and recognition
Farley dedicated much of her life to researching the runestone and bringing it to wider attention. Support from local leaders including Clem Hamilton helped the site become a state park in 1970.
Oklahoma state park
Herbert Ward donated the original 55 acres to the state with the condition it remain a public park or return to his family. The state owned and operated the park for more than four decades.
A community keeps it open
Ownership transferred to the City of Heavener. Local residents formed Friends of Heavener Runestone, Inc. to raise funds and maintain the park for the public.