Bordering Arkansas, Adair County was created at statehood and named for a well-known Cherokee Indian family. The county seat has been located in Stilwell since 1910. Primary industries of the county include food processing and canning, poultry raising, cattle ranching and horse breeding. The Annual Strawberry Festival is held on the second Saturday in May in Stilwell. Sites of interest within Adair County include Golda's Bidding Sprints Grist Mill, the state's last water-powered grist mill, which was originally founded in the early 1820s. The Old Baptist Missionary Church, built by the "Trail of Tears" Cherokee Indians in 1836, is located north of Stilwell near Westville. A marker stands near the community of Watts recognizing Fort Wayne, a military post established in 1838. Abandoned in 1842, it was reactivated and became the site of a Civil War battle in 1862. Professional football player Sam Claphan and Wilma Mankiller, former principal chief of the Cherokee Nation, hail from Adair County. Location: Adair County borders on the Arkansas state line, almost due east of Tulsa. Climate: The average precipitation is 57.0 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.0 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Stilwell Distances: Stilwell to: Muskogee - 52 miles Tulsa - 91 miles Oklahoma City - 184 miles Land Area: 569 square miles, rolling hills, 3 major stream systems

This county is named for William H. "Alfalfa Bill" Murray, president of the Oklahoma Constitutional Convention and ninth Governor of Oklahoma. Cherokee, the county seat, was the object of lengthy litigation based on county boundary disputes early in its history. While the principal agricultural products are wheat and grain sorghums, cattle raising and oil production also contribute to the economy of the area. Future Farmers of America, Farm Bureau, and Farmer's Union groups represent an active segment of the community. Places of interest include the Cherokee Salt Plain, located on the Salt Fork of the Arkansas River, east of Cherokee; the Great Salt Plains Recreation Area, famous for its camping facilities, fishing, boating, and crystal digs; and the Game Reserve, noted for its Canadian Geese, Whopping Cranes, and other waterfowl. The Alfalfa County Historical Society is located in Cherokee. The Cherokee Chamber of Commerce also serves as a tourist center. Location: Alfalfa County borders the Kansas state line in northern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 33.8 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 40.6 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.7 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Cherokee Distances: Cherokee to: Enid - 52 miles Woodward - 80 miles Oklahoma City - 134 miles Land Area: 881 square miles

Settled in the mid-1800s, this county was first called Shappaway, with the county seat located at the Choctaw Court grounds on the banks of the Muddy Boggy River. The name was later changed to Atoka in honor of Captain Atoka, a noted Choctaw who led a band of his people to this area during the removal. Atoka, the county seat, was a stop on the Butterfield Overland Stage Road, the route followed when mail service began between Missouri and San Francisco in 1857. Boggy Depot, located in the western part of the county, served as an important trading post during early years and is now historic Boggy Depot State Park. Well known for its hunting and fishing, half its area is forested and contains several mountain streams and man-made lakes. It is the site of Oklahoma's largest rock quarry, which is located at Stringtown. The county claims many firsts, including Oklahoma's first Masonic Lodge, first chapter of Eastern Star, and first Catholic Church in Indian Territory. Country entertainer Reba McEntire is from the county. Tales of Atoka County Heritage and Atoka County Museum offer more information. The Chamber of Commerce also serves as a tourist center. Location: Atoka County is in southeastern Oklahoma near the Texas border. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.8 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.6 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Atoka Distances: Atoka to: Ardmore - 71 miles Oklahoma City - 129 miles Tulsa - 140 miles Land Area: 990 square miles of which half is forested, as well as several mountain streams and man-made lakes

Located in the Oklahoma Panhandle, present-day Beaver County was created from the eastern one-third of that area. Named for Beaver River, this county comprised the entire panhandle prior to statehood. Its county seat, Beaver, was at one time the capital of Cimarron Territory. Bordered on the north by Kansas and the south by Texas, Beaver County was crossed by the Jones and Plummer Trail. Established around 1874, this trail served first as a supply route and then a cattle trail between Texas and Kansas. While the local economy is based on agriculture and cattle, it is also supplemented by the oil and gas industries, with the Colorado Interstate Gas and Northern Natural Gas companies located in Beaver. For more information, call the county commissioner's office at 580-625-3151. Location: Beaver County is in the northwest part of Oklahoma at the eastern edge of the panhandle and is bordered by Kansas on the north and Texas on the south. Climate: Precipitation averages 20.3 inches yearly in this area. The average January temperature is 38.1 degrees Fahrenheit and 77.7 degrees Fahrenheit is the average July temperature. County Seat: Beaver Distances: Beaver to: Woodward - 83 miles Enid - 171 miles Oklahoma City - 223 miles Land Area: 1,817 square miles of primarily farm land

Named for Kentucky Governor John C. W. Beckham at the suggestion of a delegate to the Oklahoma Constitutional Convention, Beckham County was formed at statehood from portions of Greer and Roger Mills counties and is the site of the Oklahoma Traveler Information Center for persons entering Oklahoma on Interstate 40 from Texas. Sayre, the county seat, was named for Robert H. Sayre, a stockholder in the railroad constructed through Sayre at the time of its founding. The city is the home of Southwestern Oklahoma State University, Sayre campus. Agriculture is the major industry of the county. Merrick 14 Ranch, located east of Sayre, has produced world champion quarterhorses and Elk City is the host of the Rodeo of Champions held each September. Location: Beckham County is in the western part of Oklahoma and borders the Texas line. Climate: The average precipitation is 30.6 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.4 degrees Fahrencheit and July's average is 80.2 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Sayre Distances: Sayre to: Altus - 58 miles Lawton - 114 miles Oklahoma City - 128 miles Land Area: 904 square miles of level plains with three major stream systems

Originally designated as "C" County in 1890, Blaine was adopted as the county name in November 1892, in honor of James G. Blaine, U.S. Senator, House Speaker, and Republican presidential candidate in 1884. The county seat, Watonga, was named for Watangaa, or Black Coyote, an Arapahoe leader. The city is the site of the Watonga Cheese Factory and the annual Watonga Cheese Festival. Blaine County is the site of the first gypsum mill in Oklahoma Territory, the Ruby Stucco Mill. Southard, located in the north central part of the county, is the site of one of the purest gypsum deposits in the United States. The U.S. Gypsum Company is the largest industrial plant in the county. The International Association of Rattlesnake Hunters has headquarters in Okeene, which is also the site of its Jaycees Annual Rattlesnake Hunt. The Canton Lake Walleye Pike Rodeo and Fishing Derby occur annually. Roman Nose State Park is located seven miles north of Watonga. Location: Blaine County is in the northwest part of Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 30.6 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.2 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Watonga Distances: Watonga to: Enid - 65 miles Oklahoma City - 70 miles Land Area: 938 square miles with a major lake and three major stream systems

Located in southeastern Oklahoma, Bryan County is named for famous orator William Jennings Bryan. The area was first settled by Choctaw Indians following their removal from Mississippi. The Indians established several schools in the area during the mid to late 1800s. One of the schools, the Armstrong Academy for Boys in Durant, later served as the capital of the Choctaw Nation. Durant, the county seat, is the site of may manufacturers, including American Packing, Bryan County Manufacturing, Potter Sausage and Stahl Metal Products. Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant is the site of the Oklahoma Shakespeare Festival. Held annually during June and July, this event has proved to be very popular and has gained national recognition. The historic Bryan Hotel in Durant once served as southeastern Oklahoma's center for social and political activities. Many national politicians, including Robert Kerr, Carl Albert, and William Jennings Bryan, included the hotel as a stop on their campaign trails. The hotel has been restored, and tours are available. Lake Texoma Resort provides a variety of recreational facilities, included a golf course, marina and camping facilities. Location: Bryan County borders the Texas state line in southeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.8 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.6 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Durant Distances: Durant to: Ardmore - 52 miles Oklahoma City - 147 miles Land Area: 943 square miles with two major lakes and four major streams

Caddo County was organized on August 6, 1901 when much of southwestern Oklahoma was opened by land lottery. Caddo comes from an Indian word, Kaddi, meaning "life" or "chief." The county is primarily agricultural and produces much of Oklahoma's peanuts, alfalfa and wheat. As one of the original five "Main Street" communities in the state, Anadarko, the county seat, has sought to establish the economic and historical restoration of its downtown area. It is the site of Western Farmers Electric Co-op and Hollytex Carpet Mills, the largest industries in Caddo County. The American Indian Exposition, the largest event of its kind in the world, is held annually in Anadarko, as are the Southern Plains Indian Rendezvous Art Show and the Pumpkin Festival of the Arts. There are three historical societies in Caddo County. They are: Cyril Historical Society in Cyril, Hinton Historical Society in Hinton, and the Philomathic Museum in Anadarko. The National Hall of Fame for American Indians and Tourist Information Center is located on Highway 62 in Anadarko. Location: Caddo County located in southwestern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 36.0 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.8 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 81.1 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Anadarko Distances: Anadarko to: Lawton - 40 miles Oklahoma City - 65 miles Altus - 93 miles Land Area: 1,290 square miles of level plains and rolling hills

This county was once part of the Cheyenne and Arapaho reservation, administered by the Darlington Agency. It was opened by the Run of '89 and the Run of '92, but the southwest corner of the county, part of the Caddo Reservation, was opened by lottery in 1901. Fort Reno, established in 1874 to maintain order on the reservation, later served as a cavalry remount station. During World War II it served as a prisoner-of-war camp. The economy of Canadian County is based largely on agriculture and for a number Yukon served as a major regional milling center. The county seat, El Reno, was an early railroad center and headquarters of the southern district of the Rock Island Railroad until its demise in 1981. Railroad service is still provided by the Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas line. Annual events include '89er Days in April and Indian Territory Days, both held in Fort Reno; in Yukon there's the Chisholm Trail Festival in June, and Czech Festival in October. Historical information is available in the History of Canadian County and Family Histories of Canadian County, both of which are still available for purchase. Location: Canadian County is located in central Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 47.1 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.0 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.8 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: El Reno Distances: El Reno to: Oklahoma City - 27 miles Enid - 62 miles Land Area: 905 square miles of level plains

Carter County was formerly a part of Pickens County, Chickasaw Nation, Indian Territory. Named for a prominent early-day family, the county ranges from hilly, rugged terrain in the north, exemplified by the Arbuckle Mountains, to rolling plains with productive oil fields in the south. Ardmore, the county seat, located midway between Dallas and Oklahoma City on Interstate 35, is the site of the Uniroyal Tire Company, Ardmore Higher Education Center, Ardmore Area Vocational-Technical School and the Noble Foundation. The Joe Brown Company, Ardmore Manufacturing, Bluebonnet Millings Company, Sunshine Industries and Lumbermen's Millwork & Supply are also located in Ardmore. Healdton, located in western Carter County, was the site of the Healdton field which, as its peak in 1916 produced an estimated 95,000 barrels of crude oil per day. Lake Murray Resort, located seven miles south of Ardmore, offers recreational and conference facilities on a year-round basis. Location: Carter County is in southern Oklahoma near the Texas border. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.8 inches yearly in this area. January average temperature is 42.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.6 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Ardmore Distances: Ardmore to: Oklahoma City - 97 miles Lawton - 99 miles Land Area: 833 square miles ranging from hilly, rugged terrain in the north to rolling plains in the south

Cherokee County, created at statehood and named for the Cherokee Nation, is part of the area settled by the Cherokee Indians after the Trail of Tears. Tahlequah, the county seat, was established as the capital of the Cherokee nation in 1839. It is the site of the Cherokee Heritage Center; Tsa-La-Gi Ancient Cherokee Village, an authentic replica of a Cherokee community during the 1600s; and the Cherokee National Museum. The Cookson Hills, surrounding Tahlequah, were noted as hiding places for outlaws and bandits, including the James Brothers and Belle Starr, around the turn of the century. Lake Tenkiller Wildlife Management Area, as well as the Illinois River, provide additional recreational opportunities in Cherokee County. Northeastern State University in Tahlequah provides a source of higher education in the area. The University's beginning dates back to 1846 when the Cherokee National Council authorized the creation of a National Male Seminary and a National Female Seminary. In 1909, the Oklahoma State Legislature authorized the purchase of the building, land, and equipment of the Cherokee Female Seminary for the Northeastern State Normal School at Tahlequah. Location: Cherokee County is located in northeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 57.0 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.0 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Tahlequah Distances: Tahlequah to: Muskogee - 33 miles Tulsa - 66 miles Land Area: 776 square miles of hilly and rugged landscape and bluffs

Choctaw County was created at the time of statehood and named for the Choctaw Nation of Indians whose Tribal name is "Chahta." Early industry in the area was limited to patch farming, but agriculture became more established with the advent of the railroad and resulting increase of immigrants to the area. Hugo, the county seat, is the winter quarters for the Carson and Barnes Circus, the largest truck-drawn circus under the big top in the United States. The Kiamichi Area Vocational-Technical School, Western Farmers Electric Cooperative and Goodluck Glove Company are also located in Hugo. The PRCA, Professional Rodeo and Grant's Bluegrass Festival are held annually in June and August, respectively. Hugo Lake and Lake Raymond Gary State Park provide additional recreational outlets for the county. Additional county information can be obtained from the Choctaw County Historical Society. Smoke Signals is a history book about the county. Location: Choctaw County borders Texas in southeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 62.3 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.0 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 79.1 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Hugo Distances: Hugo to: Ardmore - 105 miles Muskogee - 157 miles Tulsa - 193 miles Land Area: 800 square miles level plains and rolling hills

Cimarron County was formed at statehood and named for the Cimarron River. The name Cimarron is a Mexican-Apache word meaning "wanderer." For many years, present-day Cimarron County was a part of "No Man's Land," an area populated with few settlers and regulated by virtually no law. Sheep and cattle ranchers entered this area long before it was opened to homesteaders, and today, farming and ranching constitute the economic base of the county. In 1943, Boise City, the county seat, was accidentally bombed by U.S. servicemen from Dalhart Army Base. Cimarron County is also the site of Black Mesa, the highest point in Oklahoma. The county also holds the distinction of being the only one in the United States to be bordered by four other states -- Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, and Texas. The Santa Fe Trail is the major tourist attraction of the county and is the theme of a four-day festival held each June. Cimarron County was once home to Hollywood stares Vera Miles and Jack Hoxie. The Tracks We Followed and Edna Farber's Cimarron serve as county history books. Location: Cimarron County is located at the western edge of the Oklahoma panhandle and is bordered by Colorado and Kansas on the north, New Mexico on the west and Texas on the south, the only county in the United States to be bordered by four different states. Climate: The average precipitation is 20.3 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 38.1 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 77.7 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Boise City Distances: Boise City to: Guymon - 62 miles Woodward - 187 miles Oklahoma City - 327 miles Land Area: 1,840 square miles of rolling hills and bluffs highlighted by the highest elevation in Oklahoma

Opened to settlement in the Land Run of April 22, 1889, Cleveland was one of the seven counties organized as the Oklahoma Territory in 1890. Its first citizens named it for President Grover Cleveland. Osage Indians had fought the Plains Tribes here where settlers built cities and broke the sod for farms. Explorers pushing westward had marveled at the Cross timbers in the eastern part of the county and the vast prairies beyond. Colonel A.P. Chouteau established a trading post near Lexington, and Jesse Chisholm ran one of his cattle trails through the county. Washington Irving killed a buffalo in the vicinity of present-day Moore and wrote about it in A Tour on the Prairies. Cleveland County is the home of the state's largest comprehensive university, the University of Oklahoma in Norman. While other cities were battling to become the capital, Norman's mayor skillfully directed a bill through the Territorial Legislature designating Norman as the site for the first institution of higher learning. Although Cleveland County is the eighth smallest Oklahoma county in area, it has the third largest population and two of the state's nine largest cities, Norman and Moore. Farming, oil production and horse breeding are important industries. Location: Cleveland County is in central Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 47.1 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.0 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.8 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Norman Distances: Norman to: Oklahoma City - 19 miles Lawton - 87 miles Ardmore - 80 miles Land Area: 558 square miles of level plains

Formerly a part of Tobucksy County, Choctaw Nation, Coal County is located in southeastern Oklahoma and was created at statehood and named for the primary economic product of the region. Coal mining was once the major industry of the county, but has been dormant since 1958. Mementos of this era may be found in the Coal County Historical and Miners Museum in Coalgate, the county seat. While agriculture is now considered to be the primary economic mainstay of the county, businesses such as the Wrangler Garment Plant and Mary Hurley Hospital also contribute to the economy of the community. Coal County History Book is available from the local genealogical society in Coalgate. Location: Coal County is in southeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.8 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.6 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Coalgate Distances: Coalgate to: Ardmore - 74 miles Muskogee - 105 miles Oklahoma City - 115 miles Land Area: 521 square miles with some hilly and rugged terrain

Created at statehood from a portion of Comanche County, Oklahoma Territory. The word Comanche is believed to be derived from the Spanish Camino Ancho, meaning "broad trail." Originally a part of the Kiowa, Comanche and Apache reservation, Comanche County was opened for homesteading by lottery on August 6, 1901. Fort Sill, established by General Philip H. Sheridan as a cavalry fort in 1869, is now headquarters for the U.S. Army Field Artillery Center and School. The military reservation, which covers 95,000 acres, contains some 50 historic sites, including the Geromino Guardhouse and the grave of Quanah Parker. Lawton, the county seat, is home to Cameron University and the Great Plains Area Vocational-Technical School. The Lawton Community Theater and the Lawton Philharmonic Orchestra are leading cultural activities of the area, as is the annual Arts for All Festival in April. The Museum of the Great Plains is both educational and entertaining with its outdoor prairie dog village, depot and trading post. The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge attracts more than a million visitors annually. It is also the site of the Holy City of the Wichitas where the annual Wichita Mountains Easter Sunrise Service is presented. Location: Comanche County is in southwestern Oklahoma. Climate: Precipitation averages 36.0 inches yearly in this area. The average January temperature is 41.8 degrees Fahrenheit and 81.1 degrees Fahrenheit is the average July temperature. County Seat: Lawton Distances: Lawton to: Altus - 57 miles Oklahoma City - 98 miles Ardmore - 99 miles Land Area: 1,083 square miles of mountains in the north and plains in the south, with three major lakes and four major streams

Cotton County is composed of land belonging at one time to Quapaws, Choctaws and Chickasaws, the Comanche Reservation, and the Big Pasture. Part of it was created from the southern portion of Comanche County, and was formed as a result of a vote of its residents on August 22, 1912, after statehood. Agriculture has long been important to the economic base of the county. Principal crops include wheat and cotton. Livestock is also considered significant. Oil and gas production begun in 1917, rose to nearly 800 producing wells by 1952 when it ranked ninth in the state in oil production. Walters, the county seat, is the home of the Cotton County Electric Cooperative, largest rural electric cooperative in Oklahoma. Annual events held in Walters include the Walters Round-Up Club Rodeo in July, the Cotton County Free Fair in September, and the National Wheat Harvest Festival in May. Sultan Park, north of Walters is a recreational area and is the site of Comanche Indian Powwows. Location: Cotton County borders the Texas state line and is in the southwest part of Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 36.0 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.8 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 81.1 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Walters Distances: Walters to: Altus - 78 miles Oklahoma City - 113 miles Land Area: 642 square miles of predominantly agricultural land comprised of level plains and rolling hills

Created at statehood and named for Granville Craig, a prominent Cherokee, this area was part of the Cherokee Nation. The area was only sparsely settled until after the Civil War when a few scattered Cherokees made their homes in the region. Vinita, the county seat, was once called both Downingville and The Junction and was established in 1891 at the junction of the Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railroad (Katy) and the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad, (later the Frisco), the first rail lines to enter Oklahoma. Craig County has long been a livestock producing area with cattle ranches located throughout. The industrial base of Vinita has been expanded to include everything from the manufacturing of towers to micro connectors. As headquarters of the Grand River Dam Authority, Craig county is also the site of the Kansas, Arkansas, Oklahoma Electric Power Distributor, and the Northeast Oklahoma Electric Cooperative. Eastern State Mental Hospital has been in operation since 1913. Annual events include the original Will Rogers Memorial Rodeo in August, the Calf Fry Festival in September and Oktoberfest. The Craig County Book offers more information. Location: Craig County borders Kansas and is located in northeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.6 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 40.6 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 79.6 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Vinita Distances: Vinita to: Bartlesville - 50 miles Tulsa - 66 miles Land Area: 762 square miles of agricultural land on rolling hills and level plains

Located in east central Oklahoma, Creek County was created at statehood. Sapulpa, the county seat, was named for Sus pul ber, a Creek leader. It was so designated following an election by county residents on August 12, 1908, after statehood and reaffirmed by a Supreme Court decision on August 1, 1913. The discovery of oil at the Red Fork field in 1901 marked the beginning of boom times for Creek County, yet they were not to last. As oil production began to subside following World War I, economic hard times became more and more a reality and were intensified with the advent of the Depression and Dust Bowl era. Today Creek County is the home of Frankhoma Pottery, Inc., a unique industry which utilizes clay deposits from local Sugar Loaf Hill to manufacture dinnerware and art objects. Its factory and showroom draw visitors from all over the world. Location: Creek County is in northeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 47.1 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.0 and July's average is 80.8. County Seat: Sapulpa Distances: Sapulpa to: Tulsa - 13 miles Muskogee - 54 miles Oklahoma City - 102 miles Land Area: 969 square miles of rolling hills

A part of the original Cheyenne-Arapaho Reservation established by treaty in 1867, Custer County was named for General George A. Custer and was part of 3.5 million acres opened for settlement by the Land Run of April 19,1892. Arapaho is the county seat. Both Clinton and Weatherford (15 miles east of Clinton) were established largely as a result of the westward expansion of the railroads. The Rock Island Railroad completed its east-west line to present-day Clinton, then called Washita Junction, in 1903. A special act of Congress allowed four Indians to sell half of each of their 160-acre allotments to create the Clinton townsite. The Territorial government established a two-year college for training teachers at Weatherford. This college has become a four-year university offering some graduate degrees and a School of Pharmacy. The economy of Custer County is allied with oil and gas prices as the area lies atop the rich Anadarko Basin. Foss State Park and A Wildlife Refuge near Butler, as well as a large 3M facility near Weatherford, also contribute to the economy of the county. Location: Custer County is in western Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 30.6 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.2 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Arapaho Distances: Arapaho to: Woodward - 73 miles Oklahoma City - 89 miles Lawton - 96 miles Land Area: 1,002 square miles of level plains

Located on the Oklahoma-Arkansas border, Delaware County takes pride in its lakes and recreation areas. Grove, situated on the northern edge of the Old Cherokee Nation, is a resort center for the eastern shore of Grand Lake, which covers 46,500 acres, and includes 1,300 miles of shoreline. Cattle ranches are abundant, although the principal industry is tourism. Har-Ber Village, west of Grove, is a reconstructed, authentic village of the past. Honey Creek, a popular resort area just south of Grove, has all types of water sports, and excellent crappie fishing. Jay, the county seat of Delaware County, was named for Jay Washburn, the grandson of an early-day missionary. The principal industry is the raising and processing of chickens. Green beans and soybeans are raised throughout the area, as well as cattle. East of Jay is the Oak Hill Indian Center, where Cherokees weave blankets and other articles oh hand looms. Beck's Mill, northeast of the town of Kansas, supplied meal for whites and Indians and was built in 1835. It was once used as a Union prison camp. Annual events in Delaware County include the Pelican Festival held in Grove every autumn, and the Huckleberry Festival located in Jay during July. Location: Delaware County borders Arkansas and Missouri in northeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.6 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 40.6 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 79.6 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Jay Distances: Jay to: Miami - 36 miles Muskogee - 76 miles Tulsa 85 miles Land Area: 792 square miles of rolling hills and wooded areas

Part of the original Cheyenne-Arapaho Reservation, Dewey County was designated by Treaty of 1867 and opened to settlement by the Land Run of April 19, 1892. The county was named for Admiral George Dewey. "Taloga," an Indian word meaning "beautiful valley," is the county seat. Divided from east to west by both the North and South Canadian rivers, the construction of bridges was important to the growth of the county and did not occur until later years. The development of transportation was slow and began with the construction of the Wichita Falls and Northwestern Railroad (later known as the KATY) in 1910. The KATY followed the old Western or Dodge Cattle Trail which cut through the county in the 1870s to the railhead at Dodge City. On the east side of Dewey County, the old Orient Railroad remains as the Burlington Ohio today. Sparsely populated, the land is used for agriculture and cattle raising with some horse ranches and many oil and gas wells. People of note who have lived in Dewey County are former Oklahoma Supreme Court Justice Pat Irwin, TV climatologist Gary England and Prohibitionist Carry Nation. Location: Dewey County is in northwestern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 30.6 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.2 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Taloga Distances: Taloga to: Enid - 82 miles Oklahoma City - 116 miles Land Area: 1,008 square miles of agriculture and cattle land on level plains

Located in western Oklahoma and created at statehood from portions of Roger Mills and Woodward counties, Ellis County was named for Albert H. Ellis, vice president of the Oklahoma Constitutional Convention. Site of several Indian battles, Ellis County was crossed by Camp Supply Road, a major thoroughfare to military camps and posts in the Indian Territory. Although primarily an agricultural area Ellis County within the last 20 years has emerged not only as a leading county in the dairy industry, but also as a major producer of oil and gas. With the exception of Arnett, the county seat, the major communities of Ellis County -- Shattuck, Fargo and Gage -- are located on or very near the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad. Ellis County Heritage I and II offer historical information about the area. Location: Ellis County borders the Texas state line in northwest Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 20.3 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 38.1 degree Fahrenheit and July's average is 77.7 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Arnett Distances: Arnett to: Clinton - 83 miles Weatherford - 98 miles Oklahoma City -154 miles Land Area: 1,231 square miles with two major streams in a county of rolling hills and level plains

Originally a part of the Cherokee Outlet opened for settlement during the Land Run of September 16, 1893, Garfield County, Oklahoma Territory, was named for President James A. Garfield. Enid, the county seat has two major employers - Vance Air Force Base and Northrop World Wide Air Services. Local Business manufacture such products as anhydrous ammonia, petroleum coke, drilling rigs, steel fabricators, dairy goods and processed meats. Although oil has provided a great deal of revenue, Garfield County is best known for its wheat production. Specialized educational opportunities in Enid are provided by the O.T. Autry Area Vocational-Technical School and Phillips University. Recreational facilities include a public golf course, parks and a swimming pool. An annual event of interest is the Tri-State Music Festival held in May for elementary and high school students. The Garfield County Historical Society and Garfield County, Oklahoma 1893-1982 (two volumes) are sources for more information. Location: Garfield County is in northern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 33.8 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 40.6 degree Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.7 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Enid Distances: Enid to: Oklahoma City 84 miles and Woodward 88 miles Land Area: 1,059 square miles of agricultural land on level plains

Named for Samuel Garvin, a prominent Chickasaw Indian, Garvin County was once a part of the Chickasaw Nation, Indian Territory. Pauls Valley, the county seat, was named for Smith Paul, the first white settler in this part of the Washita River Valley. In 1847 he described the area as "a section where the bottom land was rich and the blue stem grass grew so high that a man on horseback was almost hidden in its foliage." Annual events include the Pauls Valley Junior Livestock Show in March, Jackpot Pig Sale in May, Heritage Day in May, Antique Fly-in and Rodeo in June, Forth of July Celebration, and the Christmas Parade of Lights in December. Location: Garvin County is in south central Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.8 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.6 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Pauls Valley Distances: Pauls Valley to: Ardmore - 43 miles Oklahoma City - 58 miles Lawton - 80 miles Land Area: 813 square miles of plains in the north and rolling hills in the south

Grady County was created at statehood and named for Henry W. Grady, editor of the Atlanta Constitution. Chickasha, the county seat, was named for the Chickasaw Indians and is known as the "Queen City of the Washita" because of its strategic location. In addition to the H.E. Bailey Turnpike and other highways, the OKT-MKT and Burlington-Northern railroads serve the transportation needs of the county. Specialized educational needs are met by the Jane Brooks School for the Deaf and the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma, all in Chickasha. Summer rodeos and a swapshop sponsored by the Chickasha Antique Car Club attract visitors to the area, as does the annual Watermelon Festival at Rush Springs, "Watermelon Capital of the World." Other annual events include the Festival of Lights, the Grady County Fair, the Firefighters Chili Cook-off, and the Veterans Parade. Location: Grady County is in southwest Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 47.1 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.0 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.8 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Chickasha Distances: Chickasha to: Oklahoma City - 47 miles Lawton - 51 miles Altus - 83 miles Land Area: 1,105 square miles of level plains in the north to rolling hills in the south

Located in north central Oklahoma, Grant County was named for President Ulysses S. Grant. Originally "L" County, this area was organized as a part of Oklahoma Territory. The economy of Grant County is basically agricultural, with Clyde Co-op Association's general offices in Medford, the county seat. Conoco and Koch Hydrocarbon Company are two major businesses in the county. Lamont is home to one of five world Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Program sites, part of the Department of Energy's Global Climate Change Research Project of 1992. The Grant County Museum, located in Medford, offers visitors a glimpse of pioneer life in the "Cherokee Strip." Historic Jefferson Park, Sewell's Stockade and watering station for the Chisholm Trail cattle drive are located in Jefferson. The recording station for area weather, temperature and rainfall for 100 years is also in Jefferson. Grant County Free Fair and Fair Grounds are located at Pond Creek; the Community Health Center, a pioneer in rural health, is in Wakita. The county's only celebration of the Run of '93, "Old Settlers Day;" and Adams Hardfacing Co., are also located in Wakita. Location: Grant County borders the Kansas state line in northern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 33.8 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 40.6 degree Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.7 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Medford Distances: Medford to: Enid - 33 miles Oklahoma City - 109 Woodward - 115 miles Land Area: 1,003 square miles of agricultural land on level plains

Claimed by both Texas and the United States, Greer was adjudged by the U.S. Supreme Court to be part of Indian Territory in 1896 and was soon attached and opened for settlement. At the time of the Oklahoma Constitutional Convention, the area was divided among Beckham, Greer and Jackson counties. Following statehood, Greer County was further divided to create Harmon County. The county was named for John A. Greer, Lieutenant Governor of Texas. The first meeting of the United States and the Plains Indians took place July 21, 1834, in a local Wichita village on Devil's Canyon. In attendance were Lt. Jefferson Davis and artist George Catlin. Willis Granite Products, Inc. and the Mangum Brick Plant, located in the county seat, add to the economy. The first shelter belt in the U.S. was established north of Mangum in 1936. Quartz Mountain State Park, the Sandy Sanders Wildlife Area (founded in 1986 and containing 16,000 acres), and Lake Altus provide recreational opportunities. The Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute takes place each June at Quartz Mountain Lodge, while the last weekend in April offers a rattlesnake derby, gun show and flea market at Mangum. Location: Greer County is in southwestern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 36.0 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.8 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 81.1 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Mangum Distances: Mangum to: Altus - 25 miles Lawton - 81 miles Oklahoma City - 145 miles Land Area: 643 square miles of rolling hills and rugged terrain

Harmon County, part of the original disputed Greer County claimed by both Texas and the United States, was created by special election in 1909, and named for Judson C. Harmon, a governor of Ohio and later U.S. Secretary of State. Located in extreme southwestern Oklahoma, the county is known today as the "Irrigation Center of the Southwest." Hollis is the county seat. The economy of the county is based largely on farming and ranching, with two contributing industries -- Western Fibers Insulation Plant, manufacturing insulation from recycled paper, and Buck Creed "Honey" Mesquite Company, Inc., processing mesquite for use as a flavor enhancer for barbecued meats. Lake Hall provides fishing and recreational opportunities for the area. The Black-Eyed Pea Festival is held annually during the second week in August. Two Harmon County history books , Planning the Route and Planning the Route 2, are available. Location: Harmon County borders on the Texas state line in southwestern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 36.0 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.8 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 81.1 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Hollis Distances: Hollis to: Altus - 35 miles Lawton - 90 miles Oklahoma City - 182 miles Land Area: 538 square miles of rugged terrain, part hills and level plains

Part of the area opened in the Land Run of September 16, 1893, Harper County was named for Oscar G. Harper, clerk of the Oklahoma Constitutional Convention. The mainstay of the Harper County economy is agriculture, but the production of oil and gas also plays an important economic role. Prime cattle are in evidence throughout the area and the Central Plains Feedyard feeds 22,000 cattle at a time. A modern veterinarian clinic and hospital with facilities for large animal surgery is close at hand. Located on the old Military Trail from Fort Supply to Fort Dodge, Buffalo, the county seat, is 12 miles south of the Kansas line and approximately 30 miles from Texas. With many of its original stone buildings still in use, Buffalo is the home of the State Highway Department's Sixth Division Headquarters. Modern schools and the Harper County Community Hospital, with the latest cardiac care equipment, and an airport, are located in Buffalo. Famous county residents include Roy Dunn, world champion wrestler; Mel Harpe, who recommended Knute Rockne as football coach for Notre Dame; and Jane Jayroe, Miss America, 1967. Annual events include the County Fair during early fall and the Laverne Trade Show in May. Location: Harper County borders the Kansas state line in northwestern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 20.3 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 38.1 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 77.7 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Buffalo Distances: Buffalo to: Woodward - 35 miles Enid - 122 miles Oklahoma City - 175 miles Land Area: 1,040 square miles of wide prairie with two main streams in the county

Located in eastern Oklahoma, Haskell County was created at statehood and named for Charles N. Haskell, a member of the Oklahoma Constitutional Convention and first governor of Oklahoma. Haskell County was one of the first permanent Choctaw settlements in the Indian Territory. Many Choctaws arrived by steamboat at Tamaha, and settled there along the Arkansas River. Haskell County was also the site of several skirmishes during the Civil War. The county seat is located at Stigler. Belle Starr, the bandit queen, frequented the area during the late 1800s. She was reportedly killed near present-day Hoyt. There is an in-county transit system. Local industries include meat packing, milling and trucking. Recreational opportunities may be found at the Robert S. Kerr Lake, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and the Haskell County Recreation Club. Annual events include Reunion Days during the third week in June, the Christmas Parade on the first Saturday in December, and the Antique Cat Show during late October. Haskell County History Indian Territory through 1988 is available from the Haskell County Historical Society. Location: Haskell County is in eastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 57.0 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.0 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Stigler Distances: Stigler to: Muskogee - 44 miles Tulsa - 95 miles Oklahoma City - 149 miles Land Area: 625 square miles of rolling hills and mountains in the south with three major lakes

Located in southeastern Oklahoma, Hughes County was created at statehood and named for W.C. Hughes, a member of the Oklahoma Constitutional Convention. Holdenville is the county seat. Holdenville and Wetumka lakes provide recreational opportunities for the county, while other areas are available for hunting dove, quail, duck, rabbit, and squirrel. Annual events of interest include the IRA Rodeo in Holdenville, Sorghum Days in Wewoka, and Suckers Days in Wetumka. Location: Hughes County is in southeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 57.0 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.4 degree Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.0 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Holdenville Distances: Holdenville to: Oklahoma City - 75 miles Tulsa - 89 miles Muskogee - 94 miles Land Area: 814 square miles of rolling hills

Formed in 1907 from a portion of the original disputed Greer County, Jackson County was named for the Confederate Hero General Thomas J. (Stonewall) Jackson. Altus, the county seat, lies in the heart of "irrigation Country." Primary crops are cotton, wheat and grain sorghum. Cattle and greyhounds are bred and raised in this area. Altus Air Force Base is the largest industry in the county. Higher education is provided by Western Oklahoma State College, a two-year accredited institution. Museum of the Western Prairie show life in early southwest Oklahoma. Other history and genealogical collections are preserved at the Altus Public Library, headquarters of the Southern Prairie Library System. The Shortgrass Arts and Humanities council sponsors numerous cultural activities including an annual arts festival in the fall. Annual events include the Great Plains Stampede Rodeo during the first weekend after Labor Day, and the Farmer's market that runs from July through September. Recreational opportunities are available 15 miles north of Altus at Quartz Mountain State Park which includes Lake Altus. Southwest Area Vo-Tech provides vocational direction throughout the district. Location: Jackson County borders the Texas state line in southwestern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 36.0 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.8 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 81.1 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Altus Distances: Altus to: Lawton - 57 miles Oklahoma City - 149 miles Land Area: 804 square miles of rolling hills and plains

Named for President Thomas Jefferson, this county was created from a portion of Comanche County in Oklahoma Territory and the southwestern corner of the Chickasaw Nation. A marker on S.H. 70 in Waurika, the county seat, designates the 98th Meridian, the dividing line between Indian Territory and Oklahoma Territory. Waurika, meaning "camp of clear water," was built at the junction of Beaver and Cow creeks, and is the site of Waurika Lake. Ringling was named for John Ringling, who built a railroad on this site to bring his circus to the area for its winter headquarters. Ryan is the site of the Jefferson County courthouse, built in 1894 by the Chickasaw Nation. Landmarks include the Rock Island Railroad Depot built in 1912, and the Monument Hill Marker, honoring the Chisholm Trail and its trail drivers. Although an industrial base has been established, cattle, oil and agriculture are still the leading sources of income. Annual events include the Waurika Volunteer Firemen Rattlesnake Hunt, the Waurika Art Show, and the Terral Melon Jubilee. The Chisholm Trail Historical Association is located in Waurika and two publications, A History of Jefferson County and Post Offices in Jefferson County, offer written historical accounts. Location: Jefferson County borders the Texas state line in southern Oklahoma Climate: The average precipitation is 45.8 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.6 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Waurika Distances: Waurika to: Ardmore - 50 miles Lawton - 53 miles Oklahoma City - 112 miles Land Area: 773 square miles of level plains.

Johnston County was created at statehood and named for Douglas H. Johnston, governor of the Chickasaw Nation. The county seat, Tishomingo, was the original capital of the Chickasaw Nation, and uses the old granite Chickasaw capitol building as the Johnston County Courthouse. Major industries in the county are Meridian Aggregates, Unimin, U.S. Silica, Sundowner Trailers, Gusher Tie Factory and Dee's Clothing Manufacturing Company. Wildlife and recreational areas include the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge, the Federal Fish Hatchery and Catfish Research Center near Reagan, and the Blue River Public Hunting and Fishing area north of Tishomingo. Blue River is stocked with trout every fall and the annual Trout Derby is held in November. Tishomingo is the home of Murray State College and Technical School and the Chickasaw Council House Museum, Johnston County was the home of both William H. Murray and son Johnston Murray, governors of Oklahoma; and entertainer Gene Autry. Johnston County History, a book by the Johnston County Historical Society, documents the history of the area. Location: Johnston County is in southern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.8 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.6 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Tishomingo Distances: Tishomingo to: Ardmore - 31 miles Oklahoma City - 115 miles Land Area: 658 square miles of rolling countryside with two major streams and one large lake extending into Texas

Located in north central Oklahoma bordering Kansas, Kay County was formed from the "Cherokee Strip" or "Cherokee Outlet." Originally designated as county "K," its name means simply that. Newkirk, the county seat, is home of the Kay County courthouse, originally built in 1894 and replaced with the current stone courthouse in 1926. The economy of the county is based on petroleum wealth as well as productive agricultural land. Blackwell, the second largest city, is located in the midst of the rich Chikaskia River farmland. Kaw Dam and Reservoir, part of the $1.2 billion plan for the Arkansas River in Oklahoma and Arkansas, is located in Kay County. Other attractions include the 101 Ranch site, Pioneer Woman Statue and Museum, the Chilocco Indian School, Ponca City Cultural Center and Indian Museum, and the Marland Mansion, all in Ponca City. Annual events include the Iris Festival in April and the 101 Ranch Rodeo in August. Kay County was once home to Territorial Governor William M. Jenkins and infamous outlaw Belle Starr. Three history books have been written about the county. They are: Diamond Jubilee, The Last Run, and Keepsakes and Yesteryears. Historical societies are located in Newkirk and Tonkawa. Location: Kay County borders the Kansas state line in northern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 33.8 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 40.6 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.7 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Newkirk Distances: Newkirk to: Enid - 76 miles Oklahoma City - 116 miles Land Area: 945 square miles of level plains and farmland

Kingfisher County was originally a part of the Unassigned Lands opened for settlement during the Land Run of April 22, 1889. Created at statehood the county was named for King Fisher, a settler who operated a trading station on the Chisholm Trail. Kingfisher, also the name of the county seat, is the site of the Seay Mansion, restored home of Oklahoma's second territorial governor, A.J. Seay. Built in 1892, it features furnishings from that period. Also located in Kingfisher is the Chisholm Trail Museum, which traces the history of the Chisholm Trail and features Indian artifacts, and a restored log cabin, school house, church and bank. At one time, oil production in the Cashion Area, Dover Field, and East Columbia Field was of significant economic importance. Today, agriculture is central to the economy of the area, with wheat being the major crop. Annual events include Pat Hennessey Days during late August, PRCA sanctioned rodeo in June, Chisholm Trail Museum Barbecue on April 22, and Germanfest at Okarche in October. Location: Kingfisher County is in north central Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 47.1 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.0 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.8 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Kingfisher Distances: Kingfisher to: Enid - 38 miles Oklahoma City - 45 miles Land Area: 906 square miles of wide prairie

Located in southwestern Oklahoma, Kiowa County was formed in 1901 from part of the original Kiowa-Comanche-Apache Indian Reservation area, and was named for the Kiowa Indian tribe. Cattle, agriculture and cash crops are the major sources of income for the county. Special annual events held in Hobart, the county seat, include the Kiowa County Junior Livestock Show, the Arts-Crafts Festival, the Hobart Birthday Celebration, the Kiowa County Free Fair and several Shortgrass Theater productions. The county was also home to author N. Scott Momaday and the Kiowa Tribal Museum and Headquarters in Carnegie. The Kiowa County Historical Society has published six books, which are available at the Kiowa County Museum in Hobart. Location: Kiowa County is in southwestern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 36.0 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.8 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 81.1 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Hobart Distances: Hobart to: Altus - 35 miles Lawton - 64 miles Oklahoma City - 115 miles Land Area: 1,030 square miles of rolling plains in the north and mountains and bluffs in the south with two major lakes

Located in the mountains of southeastern Oklahoma, Latimer County was created at statehood and named for James S. Latimer, a member of the Constitutional Convention. The Butterfield Overland Mail Route, extending from St. Louis to San Francisco, cut through the county at four stops which are now open to visitors. During the Civil War, outlaws roamed the area, and in 1875, Isaac Parker, a Federal Judge at Fort Smith, Arkansas, became known as the hanging judge because of his efforts to restore order. A coal boom in 1870 brought a great influx of people, and by 1907 many people had settled in Wilburton. A tragic explosion in 1926 forced the mines to close and since that time cattle raising and agriculture have become the principle ways of life. Wilburton, the county seat, is the home of industry as well as Eastern Oklahoma State College, begun in 1908 as the Oklahoma School of Mines, Latimer County has five reservoirs and is rich in minerals as well as forests, ranch land and recreational opportunities. Location: Latimer County is in southeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 62.3 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.0 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 79.1 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Wilburton Distances: Wilburton to: Muskogee - 72 miles Tulsa - 123 miles Land Area: 729 square miles of hills and bluffs

Once part of the Choctaw Nation, Indian Territory, LeFlore County is diverse in its topography. With rugged hills, narrow valleys and productive farmland, there is a gentle blending of modern days and old ways. Many of the towns were established as a result of railroad expansion. Within its borders there are two hospitals, seven libraries, a two-year college, three vocational schools, five newspapers, a veteran's center, and numerous clinics. Manufacturing produces such items as refrigerator parts, instrument panels, crackers and cattle feed. Carl Albert State College offers courses to more than 2,000 full and part-time students annually. Poteau, the county seat, was home to late Senator Robert S. Kerr. Tourism is an important aspect of LeFlore County. The Heavener Runestone and Spiro Mounds offer historic interest and are well known, and stops on the old Butterfield Trail, hailed as the first transcontinental link between East and West, are still found in the northern part of the county. The Quachita National Forest, including the Talimena Scenic Drive dominates the southern half of the county. Annual events include the Cavanal Fall Festival and Auto Show in October near Poteau. Location: LeFlore County borders Arkansas in southeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 62.3 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.0 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 79.1 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Poteau Distances: Poteau to: Muskogee - 84 miles Tulsa - 135 miles Land Area: 1,607 square miles of rugged hills, narrow valleys and productive farmland

Organized October 1, 1891, and named by popular vote for President Abraham Lincoln, the county was originally a part of the Creek Nation. As a result of the Treaty of 1866, however, the area was ceded by the Creeks and settled by the Sac and Fox, Iowa, Kickapoo and Pottawatomie Indians. Cattle trails began to appear after the Civil War and the West Shawnee Trail passed through the area as Texas herds were driven to Kansas. After the Cherokee Commission secured allotment of these lands, they were opened September 22, 1891, with 20,000 homesteaders participating in this land run. Although cotton was the principal crop in the early days, castor beans and broom corn were also money crops. By 1915, oil was discovered near Chandler, followed by the discovery of the Stroud Field in 1923 and later the Davenport oil boom. Annual county celebrations include Settler's Day held each fall in Chandler; Nettie Davenport Day held in Davenport; the International Brick Throwing Contest held in Stroud in July; and the Kolache Festival held in Prague each May. The Lincoln County Historical Society published Lincoln County, Oklahoma History, in 1988. Location: Lincoln County is in central Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 47.1 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.0 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.8 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Chandler Distances: Chandler to: Oklahoma City - 48 miles Tulsa - 66 miles Land Area: 965 square miles of level plains, prairie and productive farmland

Settled by the Land Run of April 22, 1889, Logan County was designated County No. 1 when Oklahoma Territory was organized in 1890. It was later named for Senator John A. Logan of Illinois, popular Civil War general. Guthrie was the capital of the Territory and the State until June of 1910. Guthrie's central district is on the National Register of Historic Places and is the only continental United States territorial capital that is substantially the same as it was during the 1890s. The Logan County History, Vols. I and II, give a comprehensive history of the county. It spans the period 1889-1977 and was compiled by Helen Freudenberger Holmes, editor and principal author. Guthrie has easy access from I-35, S.H. 33 and S.H. 77, and is served by the Santa Fe Railroad. Light manufacturing includes products such as hydraulic lifts, display islands, wooden shipping pallets, mattresses and caskets. Community facilities include two municipal lakes for water supply and recreation, a swimming pool, library, hospital, four city parks, three sports areas, two golf courses and an airport for small planes. Places of interest include the Oklahoma Territorial Museum, the Oklahoma State Capital Publishing Museum, the Scottish Rite Masonic Temple, Pioneer Drugstore Museum, Olds House Museum, the historic downtown district and the Lazy E Arena complex, all in Guthrie. Location: Logan County is in central Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 47.1 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.0 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.8 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Guthrie Distances: Guthrie to: Oklahoma City - 32 miles Enid - 62 miles Tulsa - 91 miles Land Area: 749 square miles of rolling hills and level plains with two major streams

Originally a part of Pickens County, Chickasaw Nation, Love County was named in honor of Overton Love, a prominent judge of the Chickasaws and landowner after the Civil War. The county seat was named Marietta by its first postmaster, Jerry C. Washington, for his wife, Mary, and his sister, Etta. The County Courthouse, built in Oklahoma after statehood. Marietta is served by I-35, S.H. 32, and S.H. 77, and the Santa Fe Railroad. Industries include Marietta Bakery, Marietta Sportswear, Robertson Hams, Falcon Vans and Joe Brown Company. Texaco, Chevron and Cimarron Transmission manufacture propane, butane and natural gas. The Marietta Monitor, a weekly newspaper, has been owned and operated by the same family since 1896. Several famous horse ranches and cattle ranches are located in the county. The largest early-day ranch was operated by William E. Washington, whose house is still standing. Agricultural products include asparagus, grains, hay, peanuts and watermelons, while sheep and hogs are also raised. Love County annually celebrates Frontier Days on the first Friday and Saturday of June. Location: Love County borders the Texas state line in southern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.8 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.6 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Marietta Distances: Marietta to: Ardmore - 18 miles Oklahoma City - 114 miles Land Area: 532 square miles of level plains with two major lakes

Major County was created at statehood from the southern portion of Woods County, Oklahoma Territory, and named for John C. Major, a member of the Oklahoma Constitutional Convention. Fairview, the county seat, takes its name from its scenic location east of the Glass Mountains, a major tourist attraction in the county. Several companies manufacture products ranging from oil drilling equipment to industrial loaders and steel truck bodies. The Major County Historical Society Museum, built to promote interest in the history of the area, is located just east of Fairview. Glass Mountain Country is a history book written about Major County. Active civic organizations in the county include the Lion's Club, Chamber of Commerce, Ambucs and Rotary Club. Annual events of interest include Farm Appreciation Day, Wranglers Rodeo, Two-Cylinder Club - Regional Show, White Rock Chili Cook-off, Major County Free Fair, Old Time Threshing Bee, Fly-in & Air Show and Mennonite Relief Sale. Location: Major County is in northwestern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 33.8 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 40.6 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.7 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Fairview Distances: Fairview to: Enid - 40 miles Oklahoma City - 101 miles Land Area: 957 square miles of rolling terrain and two major stream systems

Created at statehood from Pickens County in the Chickasaw Nation, Indian Territory, this smallest county in the state was settled by the Chickasaws beginning in 1837 with the removal from their Eastern homes. A member of the Constitutional Convention, George A. Henshaw of Madill, succeeded in giving the county his mother's maiden name, Marshall. The county seat, Madill, is named for George A. Madill of St. Louis, an attorney for the railroad. Oil has played a colorful part in the county's history. Leases along the Red River led to the Supreme Court's final decision in the boundary dispute with Texas. Principal industries in the county are: Oklahoma Steel and Wire, W.W. Trailer, Clint Williams - Texoma Peanut Co., Madill Manufacturing, S & H Trailer, J & I Manufacturing and Contract Manufacturing. Also important are oil, agriculture, livestock and tourism. The Denison Dam, completed in 1944, created lake Texoma with 91,200 acres of water. This lake attracts some 500,000 visitors annually and has made tourism a major industry in the county. Native son Raymond D. Gary, of Madill, brought the spotlight of attention to the county when be became the 15th Governor of Oklahoma during the years 1955-59. Location: Marshall County borders the Texas state line in southern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.8 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.6 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Madill Distances: Madill to: Ardmore - 25 miles Oklahoma City - 121 miles Land Area: 427 square miles that includes a state park and major lake

Created at statehood from lands lying within the Cherokee Nation, Indian Territory, the county was named for Samuel H. Mayes, Cherokee chief. The first permanent white settlement in Oklahoma was at Salina where the French established a trading post in 1769. Near Mazie is the site of Union Mission, established in 1820 by a Presbyterian missionary to the Osages. The important Texas Trail followed the Grand River through the county, entering the state at the northeast corner and continuing south to the Red River. Pryor, the county seat, was named for Nathaniel Pryor a scout with the Lewis and Clark expedition who settled at Pryor's Creek, an Osage trading post a few miles southeast of the present town. Located 44 miles from Tulsa, Pryor is on U.S. 69 and S.H. 20, and is 20 miles from the Arkansas River Navigation Channel. MidAmerica Industrial Park is Oklahoma's largest industrial park with approximately 9,000 acres. Industry consists of beef production which ranks number one in the county and dairying which ranks third in the state. Major crops are soybeans, hay, sorghum, wheat and corn. Manufacturing is the most important industry division in the county both in terms of employment and wages. Public andministration, services and retail follow this. Recreation is also becoming important since Pryor Creek is located within 30 minutes of five lakes - Hudson, Fort Gibson, Grand Lake O' the Cherokees, Spavinaw and Eucha. The Mayes County Historical Society published Historical Highlights of Mayes County. Location: Mayes County is in northeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.6 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 40.6 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 79.6 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Pryor Creek Distances: Pryor Creek to: Muskogee - 41 miles Tulsa - 46 miles Bartlesville - 67 miles Land Area: 683 square miles of rolling hills and valleys

McClain County, originally part of Curtis County in the proposed state of Sequoyah, was created at statehood. The county was named for Charles M. McClain, a member of the Oklahoma Constitutional Convention. Forty-niners on their way to the gold fields of California passed through southern McClain County on the California Trail that paralleled present S.H. 59. To protect travelers going west, Camp Arbuckle was established by the U.S. Army in 1850, northwest of present-day Byars. For health reasons, the camp was abandoned after a year for a site 30 miles southwest in the Arbuckles. In the 1870s large ranching operations north of the Washita River belonged either to those of Indian blood or those related to Indians by marriage. Black slaves formerly owned by Choctaw and Chickasaw families were also eligible to own land. Cotton gins in many small towns prepared raw cotton for the cotton press in Purcell, the county seat. Broom corn growing was also productive in the 1920s and 1930s. Today, McClain County is basically rural in nature, but I-35 enables easy access to the Oklahoma City metropolitan area. The McClain County Historical Society has published a three-volume history of the area. Location: McClain County is in central Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 47.1 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.0 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.8 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Purcell Distances: Purcell to: Oklahoma City - 37 miles Ardmore - 62 miles Lawton - 85 miles Land Area: 580 square miles of plains in the north to rolling hills in the south

The topography of McCurtain County, in the southeastern corner of Oklahoma varies from the rugged foothills of the Ouachita Mountains in the north to the fertile coastal plain in the south. The county has a unique heritage ranging from the Caddoan mound builders to the first white settlements in the early 19th century, including 75 years of Choctaw sovereignty, and finally statehood. The county name is that of a prominent Choctaw family, several of whose members served as chiefs. The Choctaw period left such historic sites as the Wheelock Mission Church and Academy. The Dierks family developed large holdings beginning before the turn of the century, and sold the land to Weyerhauser Company in 1969. Weyerhauser is the largest employer and has a paper mill Valliant and a sawmill in Wright City. Other major employers are Tyson Foods, Inc., a poultry processing plant; SETCO, a company that builds solid tires for heavy equipment and ships worldwide; Hagale Industries, a garment manufacturing plant; and Rockwall Industries, a lumber mill. Tourism is also a major industry with Beavers Bend State Resort, Museum of the Red River, hunting, fishing and historic sites. Location: McCurtain County borders the state line of Arkansas to the east and the state line of Texas to the south in southeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 62.3 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.0 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 79.1 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Idabel Distances: Idabel to: Ardmore - 148 miles Muskogee - 188 miles Tulsa - 225 miles Land Area: 1,900 square miles of rugged terrain, valleys and mountains

Created at statehood from lands in the southern part of the Cherokee Nation, Indian Territory, McIntosh County was named for a well-known Creek family. The chief physical feature of the county is Lake Eufaula, which is comprised of 105,000 acres and is the largest body of water in Oklahoma. The county seat, Eufaula, is located 13 miles south of I-40 on U.S. 69. The Creeks immigrated into the area in 1836 and their influence is seen in names such as Eufaula, which comes from an old Creek town in Alabama called Yufala "they split up here and went to other places." The Asbury Mission Boarding School was established in 1849 by the Episcopal Church under a contract with the Creek Indian Council. Today it is the Eufaula Boarding School. The Indian Journal founded in 1876 and published in Eufaula is the oldest surviving newspaper in the state. Tourism is the main industry in this area. Checotah, established by the KATY railroad station, was named for a principal chief of the Creek Indians, Samuel Checote. The town, once a battleground where the Creek and Little Osage fought is now a trade center for northern McIntosh and southwest Muskogee counties. It has a major clothing factory and an aluminum plant, and centers for ranching are located throughout the county. Location: McIntosh County is in eastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 57.0 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.0 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Eufaula Distances: Eufaula to: Muskogee - 36 miles Tulsa - 78 miles Land Area: 712 square miles of rolling hills and the largest body of water in Oklahoma

Created at statehood from part of the Chickasaw Nation, Murray County was named for William H. Murray, president of the Constitutional Convention and later Governor of Oklahoma. Sulphur, the county seat, was originally called Sulphur Springs for the bromide and sulphur waters that attracted thousands of people to the area early in the century. The Arbuckle Mountains, Turner Falls and the Chickasaw National Recreational Area, including the 2,400-acre Lake of the Arbuckles, have made Murray County a leading tourist attraction. Initial Point, which determines the legal description of all land in Oklahoma except for the Panhandle, is located in Murray County some six miles west of Davis. Intersecting this point, the Indian Base Line runs east and west, and the Indian Meridian runs north and south. A sandstone marker indicating the spot is located in a pasture on privately owned land. Location: Murray County is in southern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.8 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.6 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Sulphur Distances: Sulphur to: Ardmore - 32 miles Oklahoma City - 85 miles Lawton - 93 miles Land Area: 425 square miles of mountains and valleys including sulphur springs and a major lake

Named for the Muscogee Creek Indians, Muskogee County was created at statehood. The city of Muskogee, the county seat, became the focal point for the Five Civilized Tribes when the Union Agency established its headquarters in what is now Honor Heights Park. The old Union Agency Building is now the Five Civilized Tribes Museum and the famous Azalea Festival is held in the park each April. Other attractions to the county include: USS Batfish, A World War II submarine anchored at Port of Muskogee; Bacone College, established in 1879 as a university for Indians, and Bacone College Indian Museum; Fort Gibson Stockade, built in 1824 to protect area settlers and the oldest military post in Oklahoma; and Honey Springs Battlefield, site of the largest Civil War battle fought in Oklahoma. Muskogee County's economy is based primarily on agriculture, but oil, industry and recreation have also been part of the building of this county's economics. The city of Muskogee itself is within 30 minutes of five major lakes. Historical Allies is a history book about Muskogee County and was written by John W. Morris and Edwin C. McReynolds. The Muskogee County Historical Society offers more information about the area, and a state tourist information center is located in Muskogee. Location: Muskogee County is in eastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 57.0 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.0 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Muskogee Distances: Muskogee to: Tulsa - 52 miles Bartlesville - 95 miles Land Area: 839 square miles of rolling hills and valleys

Originally known as County "P," the area was part of the original Cherokee Outlet and was opened for settlement by the land run of September 16, 1893. The county's name came from John W. Noble, a Secretary of the Interior. The main source of income in Noble County is derived from agriculture and its character remains primarily rural. Industry consists of the Charles Machine Works, Inc., the world's largest manufacturer of service line trenchers, located in Perry, the county seat. Also located in Perry are: the Cherokee Strip Museum; the Stage Coach Community Theater; the Perry Memorial Hospital and a new YMCA. Noble County has seen several of its sons gain state and national office: two governors, Henry S. Johnston and Henry Bellmon; two U.S. Congressmen, Manuel Herrick and Dick T. Morgan; and one U.S. Senator, Henry Bellmon. Several books have been written about Noble County. They include History of Noble County, First Generation, History of Perry, and Perry Pride of the Prairie. Two historical societies, Billings Historical Society and Noble County Cherokee Strip Historical Society, are located in the county. Annual events include the Cherokee Strip Celebration on September 17, Wheatheart Festival in September, and the Otoe Powwow in July. Location: Noble County is in northern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 33.8 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 40.6 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.7 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Perry Distances: Perry to: Enid - 41 miles Oklahoma City - 63 miles Tulsa - 83 miles Land Area: 742 square miles of farm and agricultural land on level plains and some rolling hills

Stories abound as to the origin of the name Nowata. One opinion is that two railroad surveyors took the suggestion of an educated Delaware Indian woman, "Noweta" meaning "welcome." Others say a Georgian exploring the area found no water at some springs and posted a sign "No Wata" to warn other travelers. Created at statehood, Nowata County took its name from the county seat of Nowata. In 1904, when oil and gas were discovered, Nowata County became known as the world's largest shallow oil field. Today, the county is principally agricultural, with cattle products accounting for more than half of the farm income and wheat as the second leading revenue source. The Nowata County Courthouse is a historic site and the Verdigris River and other streams provide recreational and fishing opportunities. Nowata County History by Herb Couch offers more information about the area. Annual events include Bedlam Day in May, Nowata Powwow in October, Wild Turkey Festival in March, and the citywide Garage Sale in August. Location: Nowata County is in northeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.6 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 40.6 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 79.6 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Nowata Distances: Nowata to: Bartlesville - 21 miles Tulsa - 52 miles Land Area: 581 square miles with three major streams and a major lake in the south

Named for a Creek town in Cleburn County, Alabama, Okfuskee County was originally part of the Creek Nation, Indian Territory. Much of its history is tied to that of the Creek Nation. For example, Thlopthlocco Town, established in the 1830s in this area in the Creek Nation, became the headquarters of Colonel D.H. Cooper's Confederate forces in 1861, prior to battles with Opothleyahola and the "Loyal Creeks." Also, Okemah, the county seat, is named for the Creek chief, Okemah, meaning "Big Chief." Two of Okemah's most noted residents were Leon Chase Phillips, 11th governor of Oklahoma, and noted American songwriter Woody Guthrie. Boley, founded in 1904 on 80 acres of land belonging to a Creek freedman, is one of the few black towns remaining in the United States. Established to demonstrate the ability of the black community to govern itself, it thrived for many years before succumbing to misfortune. in 1932, George Birdwell, "chief lieutenant" of Pretty Boy Floyd, not only robbed the Farmer's State Bank, but in the process shot and killed D.J. Turner, bank president and Mayor of Boley. Today, numerous civic organizations support the community. Location: Okfuskee County is in eastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 47.1 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.0 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.8 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Okemah Distances: Okemah to: Tulsa - 66 miles Oklahoma City - 71 miles Land Area: 629 square miles of level plains and rolling terrain with two major streams

The area that is now Oklahoma County was opened to settlement by the Run of 1889. Although it did not originally have the State Capitol, a vote of the people made the county seat, Oklahoma City, the capital city where the Capitol was eventually built. In 1928, when oil was discovered in the county, petroleum products became a major part of the economy. Oklahoma County is now the economic center of the state. It is the chief market for the state's livestock and agricultural industries, as well as the major wholesaling and jobbing center for the area. The major sources of income in central Oklahoma are oil, agriculture, manufacturing, business and government. A leading medical center in the southwest, Oklahoma is readily accessible by all modes of transportation. Cultural and recreational opportunities abound throughout the county. Local points of interest include Remington Park Race Track, the National Cowboy Hall of Fame and Western Heritage Center, and the Oklahoma City Zoo. Location: Oklahoma County is in central Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 47.1 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.0 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.8 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Oklahoma City Distances: Oklahoma City to: Ardmore - 97 miles Lawton - 98 miles Tulsa - 115 miles Woodward - 140 miles Land Area: 718 square miles of level plains with two major lakes and two major streams

The name Okmulgee comes from a Creek word meaning "boiling water." Created at statehood from lands in the Creek Nation, Indian Territory, the county seat, Okmulgee, has been the capital of the Creek Nation since the Civil War. The Indians chose the site in the belief that tornadoes would not strike the area and so far history has proven them correct. Two local lakes furnish most of the water for the county. Major highways are I-40, east-west, and S.H. 75, north-south. Burlington Northern Railroad maintains a station for shipping. Points of interest are: the Creek Council House Museum (former meeting place of the Intertribal Council of the Five Civilized Tribes); the Creek Tribal Complex; Samuel Checote gravesite; Oklahoma State University Technical School; Nuyaka Mission and Okmulgee State Park. A Pecan Festival is held mid-June annually in Okmulgee and a Labor Day celebration is observed in Henryetta each year. Both cities support public libraries. The City of Okmulgee is a participant in the Oklahoma Department of Commerce's Main Street project. History of Okmulgee County offers information about the area. Location: Okmulgee County is in eastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 57.0 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.4 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.0 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Okmulgee Distances: Okmulgee to: Tulsa - 38 miles Muskogee - 43 miles Land Area: 702 square miles of level plains and some rolling hills

In 1872, the United States Government purchased land from the Cherokee Nation for the Osage tribe and it was then that the tribe moved to Indian Territory. At statehood, 1907, this Osage Reservation became Osage County, the largest county in Oklahoma. the name is a corruption by the French of the tribal name Wah-Sha-She. Pawhuska, the county seat, was named for Chief Pa-hue-Skah, which means white hair. Oil and gas as well as horse and cattle ranching on the famous bluestem grass, contribute to the economy of Osage County. Attractions to the county include Indian and western cultural activities, museums, recreational facilities, lakes, creeks, rivers, the Tall Grass Prairie Reserve north of Pawhuska, the Osage Tribal Museum and Headquarters in Pawhuska, and the Osage Hills State Park. Location: Osage County in northeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.6 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 40.6 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 79.6 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Pawhuska Distances: Pawhuska to: Bartlesville - 26 miles Tulsa - 57 miles Land Area: 2,303 square miles of wide prairie make this ranching and agricultural county the largest in Oklahoma

The extreme northeastern county of Oklahoma, bordering Kansas and Missouri, is named for the Ottawa Indians. But Ottawa comes from the Algonquian term adawe, meaning to "buy and sell." This county has been the home to members of a greater number of Indian tribes than any other county in the United States. With 71 percent of the total land area in farms, as much as 60 percent of the country's agricultural income is from livestock and dairy products, and the rest from such crops as wheat, corn, grain sorghums, soybeans and grass. The early existence of a vast lead and zinc field is evident from huge mountains of chat still present in the northern part of the county. Northeastern Oklahoma A & M college is located at Miami, the county seat. Industries in the county include clothing, furniture, boat, metal and leather manufacturing, mushroom cultivation and concrete and block production. Two books, Pictorial Reflections of Ottawa County and History of Ottawa County, have been written about the county. Location: Ottawa County borders the state line of Kansas to the north and the state line of Missouri to the east and is in northeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.6 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 40.6 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 79.6 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Miami Distances: Miami to: Bartlesville - 78 miles Tulsa - 95 miles Land Area: 485 square miles of rolling hills and valleys

Originally part of the Cherokee Outlet, Pawnee county lies between the Cimarron River on the south and the Arkansas River on the north. The lands were opened to settlement by lottery in 1892, and the county was designated County "Q." Later the name was changed to honor the Skidi Pawnee Indians who located here in the 19th century. At statehood, the county was created with an area slightly larger than Pawnee County, Oklahoma Territory. The county is primarily noted for agriculture and cattle. Today, Keystone Lake and the Pawnee Bill Museum in Pawnee, the county seat, are major tourist attractions along with Lone Chimney Lake south of Pawnee. The major manufacturing company is Columbia Windows. Two newspapers, the Pawnee Chief and the Cleveland American, and two hospitals, Pawnee Municipal Hospital and Cleveland Hospital, serve the county. The Burlington Northern Railroad and the Cimarron Turnpike provide ready access to the county. The Oklahoma Threshers Association holds its annual meeting in Steam Engine Park, Pawnee, for those interested in historical agricultural machinery. Location: Pawnee County is in northeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.6 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 40.6 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 79.6 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Pawnee Distances: Pawnee to: Tulsa - 55 miles Enid - 69 miles Bartlesville - 74 miles Land Area: 595 square miles

Originally part of the Creek Nation and the Cherokee Outlet, and known as "Old Oklahoma." Payne County was settled by the Land Run of April 22, 1889. Several years prior to that, William L. Couch had led the first colonists of Boomers in their attempt to establish a town at the juncture of Boomer and Stillwater creeks, a place they called Stillwater. Couch's group was originated by David L. Payne who died in Kansas just before the group moved into Oklahoma lands. His name was later given to the county. Livestock and the production of hay from prairie grasses were the principal industries of early settlers, but by the early 1900s corn was the leading crop followed by cotton, hay, oats, and wheat. The discovery of the Cushing Oilfield led to rapid population growth, but created areas of desolate oil wastelands where early refineries dumped salt water and waste products. The first Civil War battle in Oklahoma occurred at Twin Mounds on Nov. 19, 1861, when a body of Union Creeks moving north from their country were intercepted by the Confederates. Oklahoma A&M College was opened in 1891, with seven faculty members and 76 students. Today, Oklahoma State University is the county's largest industry. Location: Payne County is in northern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 47.1 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.0 degrees Fahrenheit and July's average is 80.8 degrees Fahrenheit. County Seat: Stillwater Distances: Stillwater to: Tulsa - 64 miles Oklahoma City - 65 miles Enid - 66 miles Land Area: 697 square miles

Pittsburg County was created at statehood from Tobucksy County in the Choctaw Nation, Indian Territory. The new county took its name from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Perryville, which no longer exists, was the place in Tobucksy County that court was held and elections were designated to take place. It was located a few miles south of present-day McAlester and was also an important military post and depot for Confederate forces. In September of 1863, Perryville was burned to the ground by Union troops. The largest city and the county seat of Pittsburg County is McAlester, which was originally developed as a rail center for the coal mining industry. Today, it is also the site of the Oklahoma State Penitentiary. Agriculture is an important factor in the present-day economy of Pittsburg County. Peanuts, cotton, wheat, oats, and soybeans are among the major crops grown. McAlester Union Stockyard, which is one of the largest in the Southwest, and a large Army Ammunition Plant are also vital to the county. Krebs is the largest Italian community in Oklahoma and is known for its fine food. Annual events include the Italian Festival in McAlester during May, the Ethnic Festival in Krebs during September, and the Prison Rodeo held in McAlester in September. Location: Pittsburg County is in southeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 57.0 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.4 and July's average is 80.0. County Seat: McAlester Distances: McAlester to: Muskogee - 64 miles and Tulsa - 106 miles. Land Area: 1,377 square miles of hills and valleys in the north and mountains in the south

Created at statehood, this south central county, Pontotoc, has a Chickasaw name meaning "cat tails growing on the prairie." The county was named after the original home of the Chickasaw Indians in Mississippi. The area, which is a blend of agriculture and industry, was originally developed by the early-day railroads. today, a large-scale cattle industry is responsible for the county's nickname, "Hereford Heaven," but Quarterhorse and Arabian horse sales also attract buyers from across the United States. Pontotoc County's rich natural resources of limestone, shale, silica, sand and clay have attracted manufacturers of glass, cement and brick. Underground springs from the Arbuckle Uplift furnish an abundant pure water supply and the county is the hub of some of Oklahoma's richest oil production. Points of interest in the county include the log cabin in which the late Senator Robert S. Kerr was born, and the Robert S. Kerr Environmental Research Laboratory, specializing in water research. History of Pontotoc County gives a written account of the area's history. Location: Pontotoc County is in southern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.8 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.4 and July's average is 80.6. County Seat: Ada Distances: Ada to: Ardmore - 65 miles Oklahoma City - 84 miles Land Area: 725 square miles of level plains with some rolling hills, three major streams and an underground spring

Settled by Seminole, Creek, Citizen Band Pottawatomie, Absentee Shawnee, Kickapoo, and Sac and Fox Indian tribes, this area was opened to white settlement in the Land Run of September 22, 1891 and was designated County "B." the county name was changed by vote in 1892 to honor the Pottawatomie Indians and means "people of the place of fire." Tecumseh, originally the county seat, soon lost to the fast growing community of Shawnee which was also in competition for the state capitol. City fathers even went so far as to build a proposed governor's mansion. The oil and railroad industries were vital to the development of some Pottawatomie County towns and the decline of others, but agriculture has remained a mainstay of the county's economy. History comes to life in annual celebrations such as "Frontier Days" in Tecumseh, the Heritage Fest in Shawnee and the historic Santa Fe depot, built in 1903, still stands in Shawnee along with other early structures. Pottawatomie County is the site of the Shawnee Indian Reservation and has 63 "Ghost Towns." Pottawatomie County has two institutions of higher education. Offices of the Shawnee, Pottawatomie, and Sac and Fox tribes are located in the county. Location: Pottawatomie County is in central Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 47.1 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.0 and July's average is 80.8. County Seat: Shawnee Distances: Shawnee to: Oklahoma City - 37 miles and Tulsa 94 miles Land Area: 793 square miles of level plains

Originally part of the Choctaw Nation, this county was created at statehood and takes its name from the Pushmataha District of the Choctaw Nation. Pushmataha was also the name of a Choctaw leader. Antlers, the county seat, is the site of several manufacturing companies that produce items such as custom mixed concrete, lumber, roof trusses, building materials and sportswear. Tuskahoma, last capital of the Choctaw Nation is the site of the Choctaw Council House, built in 1884 and noted for its fine architecture. A popular recreational area for outdoor enthusiasts, Pushmataha County offers locations such as the Kiamichi Mountains, Clayton Lake Recreational Area, Pine Creek State Park and Sardis Lake for sporting activities. Although tourism and recreation contribute a great deal to the county's economy, agriculture is still the basic component, and wheat is the major crop. Location: Pushmataha County is in southeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 62.3 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.0 and July's average is 79.1. County Seat: Antlers Distances: Antlers to: Ardmore - 102 miles Muskogee - 137 miles Oklahoma City - 161 miles Land Area: 1,422 square miles of rugged hills and mountains

Originally part of the Cherokee Nation, Rogers County was created at statehood, and named for Clem V. Rogers, member of the Oklahoma Constitutional Convention and father of famed Will Rogers. Claremore, the county seat, was named for the Osage Chief Clermont, killed during the Clermont Mound Massacre. It claims as its own such notables as singer Patti Page and astronaut Stuart Roosa. Lynn Riggs, author of Green Grow the Lilacs, from which the musical Oklahoma! was adapted, was born three miles from Claremore. J.M. Davis, a local resident, owned a hotel and collected more that 20,000 guns in his lifetime. Catoosa, now Port of Catoosa, was once a rail terminal which saw the likes of the Daltons, Youngers, Doolins and other outlaws pass through its boundaries. The waterway extends from the Verdigris, Arkansas, and Mississippi rivers to the Gulf of Mexico. While agriculture is still basic, the mining of coal and shale has also been important to the economy of Rogers County. Points of interest in the county include the Will Rogers Memorial Museum in Claremore, which attracts nearly one million visitors annually; the J.M. Davis Gun Museum; Totem Pole Historical Park located east of Foyil; and the Belvidere Mansion in Claremore. Location: Rogers County is in northeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.6 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 40.6 and July's average is 79.6. County Seat: Claremore Distances: Claremore to: Tulsa - 29 miles Bartlesville - 50 miles Land Area: 711 square miles of level plains and rolling hills including an inland waterway

Bordering the Texas panhandle, Roger Mills County was opened to settlement in the land run into the Cheyenne and Arapaho reservations on April 19, 1892. It was designated County "F," and Cheyenne was the county seat. In November 1892, an election changed the name to honor Roger Q. Mills of Texas, a former U.S. Senator. The Antelope Hills once marked the international line between the United States and Mexico, and Coronado made mention of them as a campsite in 1541. The California Road to the gold mines of the West crossed the area in 1849, commemorated by a marker north of Roll. West of Cheyenne is the marker commemorating the Battle of the Washita where General George Armstrong Custer raided a Cheyenne Indian village on November 27, 1868. Roger Mills County lies atop the rich Anadarko Basin and has many oil and gas wells. It enjoyed a boom period in the late 1970s and early 1980s, but agriculture is the mainstay and most of the large ranches are still owned and operated by the same families that first settled them. The construction of the first series of upstream dams in the late 1940s at Sandstone followed the ruinous dust storms of the 1930s. These pioneering efforts helped develop land and water conservation projects throughout the United States. Location: Roger Mills County borders the Texas state line in western Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 30.6 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.4 and July's average is 80.2. County Seat: Cheyenne Distances: Cheyenne to: Altus - 80 miles Oklahoma City - 138 miles Land Area: 1,146 square miles of wide prairie including a large area of national grasslands

Taking its name from a Creek word meaning "runaway" or "those who camp at a distance," this county was originally part of the Seminole Nation, Indian Territory. As a result of a treaty with the Creeks in 1856, the Seminoles received an estimated 2,169,080 acres of land in the Indian Territory where they could establish their own government and laws. They were the last of the Five Civilized Tribes to organize their government in this region. Although oil exploration began near Wewoka as early as 1902, it was not until 1923 and the discovery of the Greater Seminole field that the county experienced an economic boom. By September 1929, this became the premier high-gravity oil field in the United States. Now, agriculture and manufacturing contribute to the economy. Businesses engaged in the production of clothing, oil field chemicals and tanks, air blasting equipment, and others, are located in the area. Seminole Junior College continues the tradition first exemplified by the founding of the Mekasukey Academy for Seminole boys in 1891 and the Emahaka Boarding School for Seminole girls in 1893. Sources of recreational activities include area lakes, as well as public golf courses in Seminole and Wewoka. Location: Seminole County is in southeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 47.1 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.0 and July's average is 80.8. County Seat: Wewoka Distances: Wewoka to: Oklahoma City - 68 miles Tulsa - 85 miles Land Area: 640 square miles of predominantly agricultural land

Once a part of Arkansas, this county was created at statehood, and named for the Sequoyah District of the Cherokee Nation, Indian Territory. Sequoyah was the Cherokee linguist who developed an alphabet for his people. Sallisaw is the county seat. In 1816 the land encompassing Sequoyah County was purchased by Major William Lovely from the Osage Indians as a hunting outlet for the Cherokees. During the removal of 1835, a group of Cherokees settled permanently in this area. Tahlonteeskee, located in Sequoyah County, was the Cherokee capital until 1839. Agriculture is a mainstay of the county's economy, with grain and cattle being major products. Applegate Cove, Cowlington Point, and Short Mountain Cove are among the many campgrounds available in the county. Lake Tenkiller and Robert S. Kerr Reservoir also afford recreational opportunities. Blue Ribbon Downs racetrack, Oklahoma's first pari-mutuel horse racing track, is another county tourist attraction, as is Sequoyah's home in Sallisaw. Location: Sequoyah County in eastern Oklahoma borders the state of Arkansas. Climate: The average precipitation is 57.0 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.4 and July's average is 80.0. County Seat: Sallisaw Distances: Sallisaw to: Muskogee - 51 miles Tulsa - 101 miles Land Area: 715 square miles consisting of rolling hills, a major lake and two major stream systems

Created at statehood from portions of Comanche County, Oklahoma Territory and the Chickasaw Nation, Stephens County was named for John H. Stephens a member of Congress from Texas and staunch advocate of Oklahoma statehood. The first permanent settler, Silas Fitzpatrick, sold his store to William Duncan, for whom the county seat was named in 1892. The county is served by U.S. 81 and S.H. 7, 29 and 53. Duncan Municipal Airport, OKT Railroad, and Oklahoma Transportation-Jefferson Bus Lines provide additional transportation links. The economy is based on agriculture (wheat, peanuts, cotton, cattle) and petroleum. Duncan, Marlow, and Comanche are the principal municipalities and each offers a wide range of goods and services. Halliburton Oil Field Services began in Duncan, and remains a major employer in the area. Duncan maintains 144 acres of parks and playgrounds and two public swimming pools. There are golf courses in Duncan (2), Marlow, and Comanche Boating, fishing, camping facilities and 4,000 acres of recreational lands are found at Clear Creek, Duncan, Humphries and Fuqua lakes. The Stephens County Memorial Museum is located at Duncan. Location: Stephens County is in southern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.8 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 42.4 and July's average is 80.6. County Seat: Duncan Distances: Duncan to: Lawton - 32 miles Oklahoma City - 87 miles Land Area: 891 square miles of agricultural and petroleum land

Texas County was formed at statehood from the central on-third of "Old Beaver County," also known as "No Man's land." It took its name from the state of Texas. Its county seat is named for E.T. Guymon, uncle of George E. Ellison, who established the first business in that town. The Beaver River is the principal stream in Texas County, rising in northeastern New Mexico and emptying into the Canadian River near Eufaula. It is joined by Wolf Creek near Fort Supply and from there becomes known as the North Canadian River. Texas County consists of level plains and rolling hills. Many trees, especially cottonwood, grow along the streams. A large number of irrigation wells in the county help stabilize farming. Wheat, grain sorghums, and cattle are the chief agricultural industries, ranking near the top among counties of the state in all three. The county ranks high in natural gas and petroleum, being first in gas production among all counties of the United States. Industries in the area include the Adams Hard Surfacing and gasoline extraction plants. The county is served by three historical societies: Texhoma Historical Society, Beaver River Historical Society, and Daughters of the American Revolution. Location: Texas County is in the panhandle in northwestern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 20.3 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 38.1 and July's average is 77.7. County Seat: Guymon Distances: Guymon to: Enid - 212 miles Oklahoma City - 265 miles Land Area: 2,048 square miles of level plains and rolling hills

Bordering Texas at the Red River, part of the county was in Comanche, Kiowa and Apache grazing lands opened for settlement by lottery June 9 to August 6, 1901. The southeastern part, in the Big Pasture, was opened by sealed bids in December 1906. These lands became part of Comanche County, Oklahoma Territory, until statehood, when Tillman County was organized and given the name of the famous U.S. Senator Benjamin Tillman of South Carolina. Frederick, the county seat, was named after the son of a Frisco Railway executive who promised to give the city an iron flagpole in return for the honor. Finally in 1962, the railway honored this promise. Vegetable farming, cattle feed lots, pecan orchards and a pheasant hatchery at Hamsville illustrate a variety of agricultural interests. The Frederick Industrial Park has a 6,000-foot concrete and asphalt lighted runway and complete refueling services to attract industry to the area. Frederick's water supply is proved by a 900-acre lake, and the area also has the Tom Steed Reservoir. Just east of town in Manitou, Deep Red Creek has been dammed to provide water and recreation. The Tillman County Historical Society sponsors a museum complex. Location: Tillman County borders the Texas state line in southwestern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 36.0 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.8 and July's average is 81.1. County Seat: Frederick Distances: Frederick to: Altus - 36 miles; Lawton - 46 miles and Oklahoma City 144 miles Land Area: 879 square miles of wide prairie

Located on the Arkansas River on lands that were once part of the Creek and Cherokee nations, Tulsa County was created at statehood and took its name from the town of Tulsa in the Creek Nation, Indian Territory. The name, Tulsa is derived from Tulsey Town, an old Creek settlement in Alabama. The county is part hills and bluffs and part wide prairie, marking the dividing line between the ridges of the Ozarks in the East and the broad plains of the West. Its western tip reaches Lake Keystone, while the Arkansas River, in its wide bed, rolls southeastward across the county. Cattle and horse ranches and rich farmland lie almost within the shadow of urban buildings. The county has the state's second largest city, Tulsa, whose energy, aviation, computer and electronics bases are supported by a broad complex of institutes of higher learning. Surrounding this core, is a rapidly growing ring of suburban cities, including Broken Arrow, Bixby, Jenks, Owasso and Sand Springs. Beyond these areas, close at hand, there are still quiet, backwood areas. History runs deep in Tulsa County, from the early Indian inhabitants to the cattlemen, the coming of the railroads, and the oil boom. Near downtown Tulsa lies the historic meeting place of the Creek, Cherokee and Osage nations. Location: Tulsa County is in northeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.6 inches yearly. January's average temperature is 40.6 and July's average is 79.6. County Seat: Tulsa Distances: Tulsa to: Bartlesville - 47 miles; Muskogee - 52 miles Oklahoma City - 115 miles Land Area: 587 square miles, part hills and bluffs and part wide prairie dividing the ridges of the Ozarks to the east and the broad plains to the west.

Created at statehood, Wagoner is named for its major city which is also the county seat. An early settler of the area was Nathan Pryor, a member of the Lewis and Clark expedition, which was originally based at Three Forks, now called Okay. Pryor later moved to what is now called Pryor Creek where he established a trading post. The main thoroughfare of the country was the Osage Trace, which became known as the Texas Road in 1826. During the Civil War this route was heavily traveled. In 1866 the Texas Road became known as the East Shawnee Trail, one of the first cattle trails to cross the area. In the early 1870s the Missouri, Kansas and Texas (KATY) railroad extended into the county. While Tulsa's industrial area and the Port of Catoosa provide employment for many Wagoner county citizens, agriculture remains a basic element in the economy, with grain and cattle being of major importance. Two books, Three Forks Country and History of Wagoner County, are sources of county information. The Wagoner Historical Society also serves the area. Location: Wagoner County is in northeastern Oklahoma. Climate: Average precipitation is 45.6 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 40.6 and July's average is 79.6. County Seat: Wagoner Distances: Wagoner to: Muskogee - 17 miles Tulsa - 41 miles Land Area: 591 square miles of often rugged terrain of hills and bluffs

Originally a part of the Cherokee Nation, Indian Territory, Washington County was created at statehood, and named for President George Washington. Bartlesville, the county seat, was the first oil-boom town in Indian Territory. In 1875 George B. Keeler, a local fur trader knew of the existence of oil in this area but lacked the financial support and tribal permission necessary to exploit his discovery. Not until April 15, 1897 was the first commercial oil well in Oklahoma, the No. 1 Nellie Johnston, was brought in by the Cudahy Oil Company. W.W "Bill" Keeler, grandson of George, eventually became head of Phillips Petroleum Company and Chief of the Cherokee Nation. Home of the Phillips Petroleum Company, Bartlesville is the site of the Frank Phillips Home, the restored 26-room mansion of the founder of Phillips Petroleum. Dewey, the first town in Oklahoma to have electric lights, waterworks, and a telephone line, is the site of the Tom Mix Museum. Mix, one-time deputy sheriff and night marshal in Dewey, was an early-day silent film star. The Bartlesville Historical Commission published two volumes of History of Washington County by Margaret Teague. Location: Washington County is in northeastern Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 45.6 inches yearly. January's average temperature is 40.6 and July's average is 79.6. County Seat: Bartlesville Distances: Bartlesville to: Tulsa 47 miles Muskogee - 95 miles Enid 132 miles Land Area: 424 square miles of level plains and rolling hills

Part of the Cheyenne-Arapaho lands opened to settlement in the Land Run of April 19, 1892, this area was settled originally in 1886, when a white man named John M. Seger and 500 Indians left the old Cheyenne-Arapaho Agency at Darlington, near El Reno, and established a colony on the banks of Cobb Creek. This settlement was on the site of present-day Colony in eastern Washita County. Designated as County "H," it was named after the Washita River, and is derived from two Choctaw words meaning "big hunt." Washita County has ranked as one of Oklahoma's leading agricultural counties and later the Anadarko Basin made it famous for oil and gas production. During World War II, a U.S. Naval Air Station was established at Burns Flat. Closed after the war, the base was reopened in 1959 as the Clinton-Sherman Air Force Base. Many of its squadrons flew missions over Vietnam in the 1960s before the base was closed on December 31, 1969. It has since become the Clinton-Sherman Airport, and is used by planes from Altus AFB for practice landings and takeoffs. Events include the Cheyenne-Arapahoe Celebration on April 16 every five years, the Cordell Arts and Crafts Show in September, and the Cordell Pumpkin Festival in October. Location: Washita County is in western Oklahoma. Climate: The average precipitation is 30.6 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 41.4 and July's average is 80.2. County Seat: New Cordell Distances: New Cordell to: Altus - 56 miles; Lawton - 77 miles and Oklahoma City - 93 miles. Land Area: 1,009 square miles of level plains and rolling hills in the south

Woods County was created at statehood. It was part of the Cherokee Outlet, a strip of land given to the Cherokees in 1828 as a hunting outlet. In 1893, the Cherokee Outlet was opened to white settlement by a land run. The area which was to become Woods County was designated as County "M," but the name was changed to honor Sam Wood, a Kansas populist. The Constitutional Convention divided old Woods County. The eastern portion became Alfalfa County; a southern portion became Major County, and part of Woodward County was added to make up present-day Woods County. Three history books have been written about Woods County; Pioneer Footprints Across Woods County, The First 100 Years of Alva, Oklahoma and Ranchland to Railroads. Annual events in the area include the Nescatunga Arts & Humanities Fair in June, the Rattlesnake Hunt the first weekend after Easter, and the Freedom Rodeo during the third week in August. The county tourist center is located on the campus of Northwestern Oklahoma State University. Location: Woods County is in northwestern Oklahoma. Climate: Average precipitation is 33.8 inches yearly in this area. January's average temperature is 40.6 and July's is 80.7. County Seat: Alva Distances: Alva to: Enid - 71 miles Oklahoma City - 152 miles Land Area: 1,289 square miles of level plains and rolling hills

The Cherokee Outlet was opened to settlement in 1893, the name "Woodward" was given to the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe station in central "N" County, Oklahoma Territory. The name was given later to the county. Woodward, the county seat, became a shipping point for cattle, and in 1912, the US. Government located an agricultural research station there. The City of Woodward celebrated its centennial year in 1987. Scenic areas include Boiling Springs State Park northeast of Woodward and Alabaster Caverns State Park in the northern section of the county. Ft. Supply Reservoir provides hunting, fishing, camping and swimming activities. Two history books, Woodward, First Century on Sand, Sage and Prairie and Sand In My Eyes, have been written about the county. Location: Northwestern Oklahoma. Climate: Average precipitation is 33.8 inches yearly. January's average temperature is 40.6, July's average is 80.7. County Seat: Woodward Distances: Woodward to: Enid - 88 miles Oklahoma City - 140 miles Land Area: 1,245 square miles of level plains and rolling hills