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to Jim Thorpe’ s name, Wa-Tho-Huk, which translates to Bright Path, started a petition to the IOC in 2019 to have him reinstated as the sole winner in the 1912 Olympics. Previously, in 1982, the IOC gave the Thorpe family replica medals and named him as only a“ co-winner” of his events.
In July 2022, the petition worked, as the IOC reinstated Jim Thorpe as the gold medalist of the pentathlon and decathlon – 110 years later.
“ It’ s something that, in my lifetime, I didn’ t think I was ever going to witness,” Anita Thorpe said.“… We’ re so happy. Good things continue to happen.”
Then, in May 2024, Jim Thorpe posthumously received the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
“ My grandfather passed away in 1953, but we, the family, feel like he knows these things are happening, and we’ re so happy,” Anita Thorpe said.
The Jim Thorpe Home returned to the family in July 2024, when Jim Thorpe’ s grandchildren, through the Thorpe Family Foundation, purchased the home from the Oklahoma Historical Society.
It’ s a special time for the Thorpe family to see Jim Thorpe finally honored and recog-
nized, and with his home back in their hands. And for Anita Thorpe, she can continue opening up her grandfather’ s home to the world and sharing his legacy.
“ The Thorpe name is a part of my identity. It’ s my story as well,” Anita Thorpe said.“ His story is ingrained into my DNA. And I never get tired.” SwOk
STORY BY: BRADEN BUSH Stillwater Oklahoma Magazine
PHOTOS BY: Braden Bush
Exhibits are displayed inside the Jim Thorpe home
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