Inspiring, intriguing, and heartbreaking by turns, the history of the area around Sallisaw, OK has been shaped by some of the most important events of nineteenth-century America. Here are three historical attractions that you can visit to learn more about the town’s rich heritage.
1. Fort Smith National Historic Site
First established in 1817, Fort Smith saw some of the most fascinating events of American history during its 80 years. With two forts and a prehistoric site, you can explore the heritage of the area from Paleoindian times to the Trail of Tears and learn the stories of people from Osage leader Bad Tempered Buffalo to the “hanging judge” Isaac C Parker. You can also find out more about pioneers, crime and punishment, and the American Civil War.
As well as the well-preserved fort site, the museum contains visual displays, interactive exhibits, and artifacts to help you share the experiences of soldiers, criminals, and lawmen of the time. Children will love the chance to become Junior Rangers or to enjoy an ice-cream soda from the old-fashioned soda fountain, so it’s a great opportunity to load the whole family into your roomy Buick Enclave for a fascinating day trip.
2. 14 Flags Museum
This outdoor museum gives a picture of life in Sallisaw from the arrival of Cherokee settlers in the 1830s. The Lattimore cabin, made in the 1830s of hand-hewn logs and featuring rifle loopholes, shows what life was like for the Native Americans forced to travel west. The home of Judge Franklin Faulkner, who traveled west after marrying a Cherokee woman, was built in the 1840s.
The exhibit also features an interpretative display about the Trail of Tears and the old Sallisaw Train Depot.
3. Sequoyah’s Cabin
As well as creating the Cherokee alphabet and enabling the language to take written form, Sequoyah was also a blacksmith, silversmith, owner of a trading post, soldier, and explorer. The log cabin that he built in 1829 is preserved as a national historic site and furnished to show how he lived. There is also an exhibit of his life and the opportunity to wander around the beautiful ten-acre site.
4. Dwight Mission
The Dwight Mission was established near Sallisaw in 1829 as one of the first American missions to Native American people and operated as a school until 1948. Visitors to the site can see the original log cabin that served as the first home to the mission, as well as the school building and attached cemetery. The more you know about the past, the better you understand the world as it has been shaped today, so be sure to take advantage of the many opportunities to connect with Sallisaw’s heritage and history. And remember to visit us at Blue Ribbon Chevrolet for a friendly and straightforward experience that will help you to find the ideal car for your adventures.
Connect with us
