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  • Writer's pictureRoss Plumer

A Brief History of Broken Bow: A Place Worth Exploring

Broken Bow, Oklahoma is a town that has a rich and interesting history. It is located in the southeastern part of the state, and was originally inhabited by the Choctaw Nation. The Choctaws were one of the largest Native American tribes in the United States, and they played a significant role in Oklahoma’s early history. In this blog post, we will explore the history of Broken Bow from its earliest days to the present.

The Choctaw Nation was a large and powerful tribe, and they were the first to settle in what is now Oklahoma. The Choctaws were known for their hunting and fishing skills, and they lived in peace with the other Native American tribes in the area. However, this all changed when the Europeans arrived. The Choctaws were forced to move west of the Mississippi River, and their land was taken over.

Mississippi River Gorge – Credit: Friends of the Mississippi

The Choctaws were not the only Native Americans who were forced to leave their homes because of the Europeans. In fact, many of the major tribes in Oklahoma were relocated during this time period. The Seminoles, Cherokee, Chickasaw, and Creek all had to leave their ancestral homes because of the Europeans. This was a time of great upheaval for the Native Americans, and it had a profound impact on their culture and way of life.

The relocation of the Native Americans did not stop the westward expansion of the United States. In fact, it only made it easier for settlers to move into Oklahoma. The land was wide open and there were few people living there. The American government saw this as an opportunity to expand its territory, and they encouraged settlers to move west. This is how Broken Bow got its start.

The name Broken Bow comes from the Dierks brothers, Herman and Fred, who moved to southeastern Oklahoma to found Choctaw Lumber Company. Broken Bow was named after Herman and Fred Dierks’ home in Nebraska, not its American Indian origins.

After being founded in 1901, Broken Bow quickly became a booming town. The town grew rapidly, and it soon had a population of over five thousand people. The first settlers to move into Broken Bow were cattle ranchers. They were attracted to the area because of the wide open spaces and the abundance of grass. The cattle ranching industry quickly took off, and it soon became one of the most important industries in Oklahoma. The lumber industry was also booming in Oklahoma, and Broken Bow was right in the middle of it.

Broken Bow lake – Credit: www.tripadvisor.com

Cattle ranching and lumber were not the only industries that flourished in Broken Bow. The town also became a center for farming and agriculture. The town was soon a bustling community, and it was known for its high-quality lumber, wide open pastures, and the promise of the American dream.

However, the good times didn’t last forever. The lumber industry began to decline in the early twentieth century, and this had a devastating impact on Broken Bow. The town’s population began to decline, and many businesses closed their doors. It wasn’t until the mid-twentieth century that Broken Bow began to recover.

Today, Broken Bow is a thriving community once again. It is a story of a town that has been through many changes but has always remained an important part of Oklahoma. It is home to a large number of businesses and industries, and its population has grown significantly in recent years. The town has come a long way since its early days, and its history is truly fascinating.

Every year, thousands of tourists from the U.S and abroad flock to Broken Bow to experience its cabins, lakes, and outdoor activities. With a rich history and plenty to see and do, Broken Bow is a great place to visit for any traveler.

The Cabins at Holly Creek are a collection of rustic wood cabins nestled in the heart of Broken Bow. We provide a tranquil, comfortable, and affordable getaway for the whole family.

Broken Bow Cabins | Dixie Cabins in Broken Bow

Dixie Cabin in Broken Bow – Cabins At Holly Creek

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, be sure to check out the McCurtain County Website for a list of museums and local libraries worth visiting on your next stay.

So, there you have it! The history of Broken Bow, Oklahoma. This small town has a big story, and its history is truly fascinating. If you’re ever in the area, be sure to check

If you are ever in the area, be sure to take some time to learn about the history of this great town. And while you’re here, you can always find a relaxing, authentic, and well placed stay at the Cabins At Holly Creek. We are always excited for new travelers and those who love to experience the beautiful history and nature in Broken Bow.

View our available cabins and schedule your vacation at the Cabins at Holly Creek today. Become a part of Broken Bow now!

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