The Catoosa Historical Museum in Catoosa, OK
The Catoosa Historical Museum is an excellent place to experience local history. Its exhibits feature a variety of memorabilia from the area's past, including photos, coins, and maps. The museum is well organized, contains unique items, and is clean and welcoming. You can also hear the stories of local residents from decades past. There is also a special exhibit, CHEROKEE NATION: Portrait of a People, about the city's history and culture.
D.W. Correll Museum
The D.W. Correll Museum in Catoosa, OK, is a wonderful place for rock and mineral lovers to visit. This museum is located just down the road from the Route 66 Blue Whale. In addition to rocks, minerals, and gems, you can also see antiques and one unique oddity. If you like rock art, you'll enjoy the collection here.
The museum is free and features 2 buildings. One building features antique automobiles that Correll collected, including a valuable Texaco gas pump. Another building features a large collection of rocks, minerals, and seashells, as well as jewelry, decanters, and vintage toys. The museum is only two miles away from the famous blue whale. You'll find the Blue Whale Museum at 2600 U.S. Route 66, Catoosa, OK 74015.
Catoosa Historical Society Museum
Located in the old train depot, the Catoosa Historical Society Museum features local history and exhibits that educate visitors about the town's past. Visitors can view old pictures and log books from train depots, as well as mail records from the days when people traveled by horseback. There are even some rare and interesting items on display, and the museum is a fun destination for the whole family. After learning about the town's rich history, you'll likely feel like you've traveled back in time.
For those interested in local history, the museum is home to a special exhibit, CHEROKEE NATION: Portrait of a People, on loan from the Oklahoma Historical Society. The exhibit features a variety of images depicting traditional Cherokee lifestyles in Oklahoma. Photographer and artist David Fitzgerald presents the images of traditional Native American settings and occupations as well as contemporary Cherokees. A look at the town's past can inspire a sense of pride for its heritage and history.
Free Admission
The Catoosa Historical Museum is a fun place to spend a couple of hours, and it is free! The museum is located in the former railroad depot, next to the old alignment of Route 66. The exhibits date as far back as 1897, so you can see railroads from that era. If you are traveling along the historic route, be sure to look for railroads along the way.
The Catoosa Historical Museum is comprised of 2 buildings. One of the buildings has a large mural painted by award-winning artist Lance Hunter. The mural tells the story of the benefactor and beloved citizen of the town, D.W. Correll. It's 8-feet tall and 72-feet wide, and it's a fun way to learn about the city's colorful history.
