A Legacy Led by Women: The Female Mayors of the City of Langston

Langston, Oklahoma, stands as more than a dot on the map; it is a symbol of resilience, Black excellence, and self-determination. Founded in 1890 by Edward P. McCabe, Langston was established as one of the first all-Black towns in Oklahoma Territory. McCabe envisioned a thriving, self-governed community where African Americans could own land, build institutions and shape their own political future at a time when opportunities elsewhere were deeply restricted.

This painting is of Edward P. McCabe, the founder of Langston Oklahoma. Fun Fact: he is also the creator of and founder of the Edwin P. McCabe scholarship foundation and the regents’ scholarships.

That vision laid the foundation for a town that would make history not only through its founding, but through the leaders who would later rise to guide it, especially its women leaders.

Over the decades, Langston has experienced cycles of growth and hardship. The establishment of Langston University helped anchor the town economically, culturally and intellectually, bringing generations of students, educators and families into the community. Yet like many small towns, Langston has faced challenges including economic downturns, population decline, limited resources and infrastructure strain. Through it all, leadership has remained critical to the town’s survival.

One of the most groundbreaking chapters in Langston’s political history came with Viola W. Jones, the first female mayor of Langston, Oklahoma. Her election marked a historic shift, not only breaking gender barriers but expanding the definition of who could lead in a town rooted in tradition. Jones’ leadership symbolized progress, representation and the growing role of women in civic life. At a time when women, particularly Black women, were often excluded from positions of power, her mayoralty affirmed that leadership in Langston was earned through service, strength, and commitment to community.

Mayor Viola Jones-1st female Mayor of Langston Oklahoma.

Prior to becoming the 1 st female mayor of Langston, Ms. Jones served her community well. Throughout the years, she consistently provided food, clothing and other services to members of her community. Not only did she provide these services to members of the Langston community, but she did also for countless students at Langston University.

Mayor Jones’ reconstructions have made Langston Oklahoma what it is today through, for example, renovation of the water plant system, police department, fire department and health care services.  One resident reported that she had lived in a metropolitan community prior to relocating to Langston and the health care she received from the Mary Mahoney Health Care Clinic in Langston is the best health care she has ever received. Furthermore, Jones was instrumentalist in bringing these services to Langston. Prior to her leadership, the citizens of Langston were charged long-distance telephone fees to surrounding communities. It was through her leadership the fees were eliminated.”

As a lifelong resident of the Langston community, Jones had a great history with the Town of Langston and Langston University. She worked in the Langston University dining hall for over a decade. Later she began working with the Langston University Cooperative Extension Program for approximately ten years. She served as the mayor of the Town of Langston City from 1987 to 1995. Alicia Sumlin, her niece, became the 2nd female mayor of the Town of Langston City in December 2013.

Jones’ legacy paved the way for future women leaders, including the town’s current mayor, Misty Mayes. Mayor Mayes represents both continuity and evolution, honoring Langston’s past while navigating the realities of the present. Mayes staid, “Jesus is my force and guidance to bridging a gap and decision making.” In addition to her role as mayor, she balances multiple responsibilities, reflecting the modern demands placed on local leaders in small but historically significant towns. As staff member at Langston University and a proud native of Langston Oklahoma she hopes to leave a legacy. “The town matters more than the title,” said Mayes.

Under Mayes’ leadership, Langston continues striving for progress amid challenges. Efforts toward community engagement, economic development and collaboration with Langston University highlight a commitment to moving the town forward. Her administration reflects a leadership style rooted in perseverance, adaptability and service values that echo the town’s founding principles, as Mayes said, “I am living and walking in history.” She is proud to serve and be placed here at this institution, “knowing I am available for the students on campus semester by semester.”

The impact of Langston’s female mayors extends beyond policy decisions or city meetings. Their leadership has reshaped perceptions, inspired young people, especially young women, and reinforced the idea that Langston’s strength lies in its people. From Edward P. McCabe’s founding vision to Viola W. Jones’ historic election and Mayor Misty Mayes’ present-day leadership, Langston’s story is one of determination, growth, setbacks and renewal.

Langston has gained not only from the institutions built within it, but from the courage of leaders willing to serve during both prosperous and difficult times. Its failures have taught resilience; its successes have affirmed purpose. And its women leaders have ensured that the town’s future is guided by voices that reflect the full breadth of its community.

In many ways, Langston’s story is still being written, shaped by those who choose to lead, serve, and believe in its promise.