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Stephens County Historical Museum
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Bank Museum Front
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Grady County Historical Museum
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Chickasaw Council House Museum

8 Museums to Explore in Chickasaw Country

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There is no better way to explore a destination than by checking out museums, whether historical, quirky, educational or just plain fun. Chickasaw Country offers a range of museums for you to explore.

Chickasaw Bank Museum

When visiting the Chickasaw Bank Museum in Tishomingo, visitors will learn about the opening of the bank in 1901 and subsequently closed in 1909 when a cashier and later part owner absconded with the money and was never caught. Step into the original vault or behind the teller’s desk to feel like a part of the history.

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Chickasaw Bank Museum

Chickasaw Council House Museum

One of the coolest places in Chickasaw Country to visit for First American history is the Chickasaw Council House Museum in Tishomingo. The Museum houses the original Chickasaw Council House – yes a house inside the museum! As you walk around the exterior of the Council House, you will see exhibits and read more about the history, traditions and culture of the Chickasaw people. And then stroll through the hall to learn about the accomplishments of several Chickasaw citizens before stopping in the gift shop for a souvenir for the road.

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Display at Chickasaw Council House Museum
Chickasaw Council House Museum

Chisholm Trail Heritage Center

Learn all about the Chisholm Trail and its significance to Oklahoma and history at the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center. There is so much to see and do inside and outside the Museum. Inside, view the life-size display of animals frequently seen along the Trail and step into the Duncan General Store to see what items were sold during the time of the Trail. Take time to visit the Campfire Theater to listen in on a conversation between Jesse Chisholm and Cowboy Tex about how the Trail was named. Experience an immersive adventure in the 4D Experience Theater complete with the sounds, smells and sights found along the Trail. Outside, follow the Trail along the sidewalk before capturing a photo in front of the “On the Chisholm Trail” bronze sculpture by Oklahoma artist Paul Moore.

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Group watching interactive theater at National Day of the Cowboy at the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center in Duncan
Chisholm Trail Heritage Center

Fort Washita Historic Site & Museum

Fort Washita was built in 1842 as the southwesternmost U.S. military post to protect the Chickasaw and Choctaw tribes and maintain peace within their new lands. The Fort was abandoned in 1865 following the Civil War. Today, Fort Washita Historic Site & Museum offers informational exhibits, restored structures, Civil War reenactments, storytelling and more. Check their calendar of events for more special activities for the entire family.

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Fort Washita Front Entrance
Fort Washita Historic Site & Museum

Murray-Lindsay Mansion

Journey back in time with a visit to the Murray-Lindsay Mansion in Lindsay. Built between 1879 and 1881, this historic home was once the largest and most elaborate house in western Chickasaw Country, boasting 15 rooms, two baths and four fireplaces. The home was the residence of Irish immigrant Frank Murray, his First-American wife Alzira McCaughey, and their large family. The mansion, which hosted notable guests such as Geronimo, now features preserved furnishings from the early 1900s. Managed by the Lindsay Community Historical Society, the mansion hosts several events yearly. Make sure to visit and check it off your list of National Register of Historic Places!

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Murray-Lindsay Mansion
Murray-Lindsay Mansion

Grady County Historical Museum

Located in the former Dixie Department Store building in Chickasha, the Grady County Historical Museum brings the past to life. Begin by browsing the exterior window displays showcasing period furniture and farming implements. When you walk through the front doors, you almost literally step back in time. You will see room vignettes displaying books, images, old telephones, period furniture, military regalia, musical instruments, an office setup, doctors’ instruments, dolls, plates and serving ware and much more. Make sure you look up to see a horse-drawn sleigh and carriage. Grab lunch from Alexander Eats located in the rear of the museum. Choose from salads, potatoes, sandwiches and drinks.

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Grady County Historical Society Museum
Grady County Historical Museum

 

Greater Southwest Historical Museum

The Greater Southwest Historical Museum is situated within the Ardmore National Guard Armory, a historic building constructed in 1936 by the WPA. The museum showcases the fascinating history and culture of south-central Oklahoma, spanning from the mid-1800s First Americans to the present-day farmers, ranchers and townspeople. Its exhibits highlight pioneer life, oil and gas development, railroad and urban life and feature unique artifacts collected from the area's stores, offices, barns and homes, such as furniture, furnishings, fashions and equipment. In addition to the main exhibition, the museum also houses three historical wings, including the Military Memorial Museum.

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Department store exhibit at the Greater Southwest Historical Museum
Greater Southwest Historical Museum

Stephens County Historical Museum

Located in Duncan, the Stephens County Historical Museum has room vignettes filled with treasured antiques, photos, records, crafts, equipment and much more depicting pioneer life in Oklahoma. Don’t miss the First American heritage display featuring an original habitat setting and arrowhead collection.

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Stephens County Historical Museum

This is only a small list of the many museums in Chickasaw Country. Visit our history and culture section to discover more opportunities to visit museums throughout south central Oklahoma. And make sure to tag us in your photos with #VisitChickasaw for a chance to be featured on our social channels!

More Ways to Explore Chickasaw Country