This Is Oklahoma's Quirkiest Little Town
The small Oklahoma town of Pawhuska certainly knows a thing or two about quirky. Founded in 1872, Pawhuska takes its name from the 19th-century Osage Nation chief Paw-Hiu-Skah, whose name literally translates as “White Hair.” Over time, it became the seat of Osage County and grew into an important trading hub for cattle ranchers, merchants, and entrepreneurs looking to settle in this part of northeastern Oklahoma. Today, Pawhuska is well-known in America for its association with The Pioneer Woman. A major US influencer and designer with millions of followers, Ree Drummond opened The Pioneer Woman Mercantile here in 2016, a business that now attracts visitors year-round. The town has also done an amazing job of preserving its historic buildings, as well as continuing local traditions that reflect its somewhat quirky Western pioneer spirit.
Origins And Hollywood Fame
According to the Osage County Historical Society, much of Pawhuska’s early development stemmed from its being chosen as the home of the Osage Agency, a federal office tasked with establishing the administration needed to serve the Osage Nation. The community took shape on the tribal reservation itself, with its name chosen as a tribute to the much respected Chief.
By the late 19th century, trappers and traders from across the region were attracted by the town’s growing reputation as a place to conduct business, with ever-increasing numbers of them choosing to settle. Ranching also became a major economic driver, with cattle drives passing through regularly. The earliest photos of Pawhuska certainly capture this period, with dirt streets lined with wagons and wooden storefronts that wouldn’t look out of place in an old Western movie.
Pawhuska’s heritage is filled with fascinating and colorful tales from its early years. One often-shared anecdote that was recently immortalized in the film Killers of the Flower Moon took place in nearby Fairfax during the oil boom of the 1920s. Huge wealth swept through Osage County, inspiring lavish spending on homes and grand soirées, sometimes with devastating and tragic consequences. The movie stars Leonardo DiCaprio and is a must-see, with much of it filmed in and around Pawhuska.
Landmarks And Points Of Interest
Several distinct attractions related to the Old West era and the town’s roots are located in and around Pawhuska. A great place to start exploring is the Osage Nation Museum, established in 1938 and the oldest Native-owned museum in the United States. Exhibits detail Osage heritage, treaty histories, and significant collections of cultural artifacts.
As you’re on the Osage Nation Reservation when in Pawhuska, be sure to also stop in at the Osage Nation Visitors Center to find out more about related landmarks and places to visit. Just a short walk away stands the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, recognized for its stained-glass windows that honor Osage leaders. The nearby Osage County Courthouse, built in 1914, is a popular photo spot for its attractive Neoclassical design and is included on the National Register of Historic Places.
Another downtown highlight is the already-mentioned Pioneer Woman Mercantile. Located in a renovated 100-year-old building in the very center of town, it offers a bakery, deli, and retail shop. A word of advice, though. It does get busy on weekends with lines forming around the block, so try to arrive early.
Quirky Things To Do Outdoors
For those who enjoy spending their time in the great outdoors, head to the Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve. Usually simply referred to as the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, it covers an area of nearly 40,000 acres and protects one of the last remnants of tallgrass prairie in North America. Bison roam the plains, and a driving loop takes you past herds grazing in open fields (so have your camera ready). The hiking trails are also great here and allow for a closer look at native flora, which blooms in late spring.
A little closer to town, Osage Hills State Park offers cabins and camping facilities for those wanting a fun overnight experience. It’s also a popular fishing spot, featuring a mix of hilly terrain and creeks, a quirky contrast to the typically flat prairie lands in this part of Oklahoma. Other fun stuff to do includes exploring its many miles of trails, renting a canoe for a paddle along Lookout Lake, or joining one of the interpretive programs about regional wildlife.
Enjoy A Fun Weekend In Pawhuska
Quirky Pawhuska's lodging options range from downtown loft apartments and hotels to ranch-style bed-and-breakfasts. One of the most unique spots is the Frontier Hotel. Set in a historic building in downtown Pawhuska that was built as a bank in 1912, it features modern rooms that retain elements of the past, including original tile floors and exposed brick.
The best time to visit? Pawhuska hosts its annual Ben Johnson Days in June, a four-day-long celebration of the local rodeo legend and Academy Award-winning actor. The schedule typically includes a rodeo, a parade, and a dinner at the Osage County Fairgrounds. Mid-July is another great time to visit as the town hosts the Cavalcade Rodeo. The world’s largest amateur rodeo, riders from across Oklahoma converge to compete in events like barrel racing and roping while spectators also get to enjoy live music and traditional grub under the stars.
The Bottom Line
Pawhuska offers so much more than your average small-town experience. This quirky community in Oklahoma features evidence of its early tribal governance, the oil-boom prosperity of the 1920s, and even Hollywood stardom. Add to this other unique attractions such as The Pioneer Woman Mercantile and regular rodeo shows, and it’s clear this offbeat destination should be included on your travel itinerary. So if you’re a curious traveler who enjoys a little “quirky” now and then, pack your bag and head to Pawhuska.
