Seniors Stop By Checotah

Checotah, a city in McIntosh County, Oklahoma, was named for Samuel Checote, the first chief of the Creek Nation elected after the Civil War. The population runs right at 3,500. Today, senior visitors will find in Checotah numerous antique malls, a Civil War battle site and a Downtown Historic District that is one of only 15 National Register Historic Districts in Oklahoma.

Early boosters called Checotah, “The Gem of the Prairie.” The Missouri–Kansas–Texas Railroad (also known as the MKT or Katy) established a railhead on the old Texas Road in 1872 that would become the site of present day Checotah. Although it was named Checote Switch for Samuel Checote, a later mapmaker spelled the name as Checotah. The town was chartered by the Creek Nation in 1893.

One of the most significant battles in this area was the battle of “Honey Springs” or “Elk Creek” which occurred on July 17, 1863. The battle site is located approximately four and one half miles northeast of Checotah. The fight was between forces of the Confederates and Federals. Factions of the Creek tribe fought with each respective army. Following the Civil War, re-establishment of tribal boundaries greatly reduced the Creek Nation land area.

 Seniors Witness Steerwrestling Event

Checotah claims to be the steer wrestling capital of the world and if seniors should happen to visit Checotah in May, you will have a memorable  experience witnessing the Duvall Jackpot Steerwrestling. This senior has never seen such an event.

The local Chamber of Commerce notes that… “Aside from being famous as the world’s capital for steer wrestling, there is more to know and to discover about our progressive town…” In June Old Settler’s Day is a popular, fun time and in September, the Dusk ’Til Dawn Blues Festival brings in folks from all around the state. Such events take place all year long.

TripAdvisor wants senior travelers to know about Honey Springs Battlefield Historic Site. The Engagement at Honey Springs (called The Affair at Elk Creek by the Confederates) was the largest of more than 107 documented hostile encounters in the Indian Territory.

Eufaula Is Proud Of Carrie Underwood

Eufaula Lake, the largest-capacity lake in the state of Oklahoma is nearby. Lake Eufaula State Park,  is a 2,853-acre Oklahoma state park located in McIntosh County, 14 miles southwest of Checotah. The park was formerly known as Fountainhead State Park.

The town is also known  for Carrie Underwood of American Idol fame. Do you know of her? The city is very proud of her and her accomplishments. Perhaps seniors will remember that Checotah was put on the map in April of 2016 when a major tornado ripped through the town, destroying much personal property.

So set your GPS for Checotah Oklahoma and enjoy all that the city has to offer.