Learn About Okmulgee, Oklahoma
Okmulgee Overview
City History
- Okmulgee is a city located in Okmulgee County, Oklahoma, United States. It was founded in 1868 when a Creek town was established on the banks of Okmulgee Creek.
- The city grew rapidly during the oil boom of the early 20th century, becoming known as the "Oil Capital of the World" at one point.
- Okmulgee has a rich history as a center of Creek Indian culture and was once the capital of the Creek Nation in Indian Territory.
Interesting Facts
- Okmulgee is home to the Muscogee Creek Nation, one of the largest tribal governments in the United States.
- The city is known for its historic architecture, including the Creek Council House, a National Historic Landmark.
- Okmulgee is also famous for its annual Pecan Festival, which celebrates the city's status as the "Pecan Capital of the World."
Interesting People
- One notable person from Okmulgee is Joy Harjo, the first Native American Poet Laureate of the United States.
- Another famous resident of Okmulgee is Jim Thorpe, an Olympic athlete and football player who was a member of the Sac and Fox Nation.
Top Attractions in Okmulgee
- The Creek Council House
- The Okmulgee Pecan Festival
- The Okmulgee Historic District
Top Attractions Nearby
- The Woody Guthrie Center in Tulsa
- The Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa
- The Tallgrass Prairie Preserve in Pawhuska
Population History
- According to the 2020 census, Okmulgee has a population of approximately 12,000 residents.
- The population of Okmulgee has remained relatively stable over the past few decades.
Geography
- Okmulgee is located in eastern Oklahoma, approximately 40 miles south of Tulsa.
- The city is situated along the banks of Okmulgee Creek and is surrounded by rolling hills and forests.
Economy
- Okmulgee's economy is primarily based on agriculture, oil and gas production, and manufacturing.
- The city is home to several industrial parks and is a center for transportation and logistics in the region.
Culture
- Okmulgee has a rich cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on Native American traditions and history.
- The city hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including art fairs, music festivals, and pow wows.
Notable Landmarks
- The Creek Council House
- The Okmulgee County Courthouse
- The First Presbyterian Church of Okmulgee