Claremore, Oklahoma – Home of Will Rogers
Claremore, Oklahoma, a city steeped in history and brimming with cultural significance, offers a captivating glimpse into the American West. From its humble beginnings as a Native American trading post to its rise as a vibrant Route 66 destination, Claremore weaves a compelling narrative that resonates with visitors today. This northeastern Oklahoma gem, nestled in the rolling hills of Rogers County, is perhaps best known as the cherished hometown of Will Rogers, America’s beloved humorist and cowboy philosopher. However, Claremore boasts a rich tapestry of stories that extend far beyond its most famous son, inviting exploration and discovery at every turn.
The story of Claremore begins long before statehood, with the arrival of Chief Glahmo and his Osage tribe in 1802. Driven from their ancestral lands in Missouri, they sought a new home in the fertile territory along the Verdigris River. It was here that Chief Glahmo established a crucial fur trading post, a vital hub for commerce and interaction between the Osage and European traders. The trading post was strategically located atop a prominent 25-acre mound. The French referred to the mound as "Clermont," meaning "clear mountain". Over time, both traders and Native Americans alike began to refer to the chief as "Chief Clermont," solidifying the name’s association with the area.
The Louisiana Purchase of 1803 dramatically altered the landscape of the region. Designated as Indian Territory, the land became a refuge for displaced tribes. Among these were the Cherokee, forcibly removed from their eastern homelands along the harrowing "Trail of Tears." They were granted title to the land, including the area encompassing Clermont Mound. The Osage Indians, in turn, were relocated to a reservation that would later become Osage County. This period marked a significant transition for the area, as different cultures and communities converged and reshaped the region’s identity.
A settlement gradually emerged on Clermont Mound, populated primarily by Cherokee Indians. This burgeoning community began to establish essential services, including a general store, a blacksmith shop, and a school, laying the foundation for a more structured town. In 1874, the establishment of a post office marked a crucial step in the town’s formal recognition. Intended to honor Chief Clermont, a clerical error resulted in the name being recorded as Claremore. Despite the accidental alteration, the name stuck, forever shaping the town’s identity.
Embracing elements of European-American culture, the Cherokee in Claremore flourished. They established constitutional governments, published newspapers, and developed an extensive educational system, demonstrating their adaptability and resilience. However, this period of relative autonomy was short-lived. In 1889, the U.S. Government began opening up unassigned lands in the Indian Territory to white settlers. A massive influx of newcomers overwhelmed the territory, and control of Claremore soon shifted. By the turn of the century, the town had grown to be larger than Tulsa, a testament to its rapid development and strategic location.
The early 20th century brought an unexpected twist to Claremore‘s narrative. In 1903, during a test drilling for oil, prospectors struck a different kind of liquid gold: a powerful flow of artesian mineral water. This discovery ignited a new era for the town, as radium bathhouses became a popular attraction. People from far and wide flocked to Claremore to experience the purported healing properties of the mineral-rich waters, transforming the town into a health and wellness destination.
In 1907, a significant political development occurred when Rogers County was created from the Cherokee Nation. The county was named in honor of Clement V. Rogers, a prominent figure in the region, a member of the Constitutional Convention, and, notably, the father of Will Rogers. This act solidified the Rogers family’s enduring legacy in the area and further intertwined the town’s identity with the famous humorist.
The arrival of Route 66 in Claremore further accelerated its growth and cemented its place on the American map. As the "Mother Road" snaked its way through the city, it brought a steady stream of travelers seeking rest, sustenance, and entertainment. Motor courts, service stations, and restaurants sprang up along the highway to cater to the needs of these road-weary travelers, transforming Claremore into a bustling stopover on the iconic American highway.
Today, Claremore proudly embraces its heritage, offering visitors a rich blend of history, culture, and entertainment. A visit to the Will Rogers Memorial is essential for anyone seeking to understand the life and legacy of Oklahoma’s favorite son. The memorial encompasses an eight-gallery museum showcasing artifacts from Rogers’ remarkable career, from his early days as a vaudeville performer to his later success as a writer, actor, and social commentator. The Will Rogers Hotel, once renowned for its radium baths, stands as a reminder of the town’s unique past. Though its upper floors have been converted into senior apartments, the hotel’s historic charm remains palpable. The J.M. Davis Arms and Historical Museum houses an extraordinary collection of over 20,000 firearms, offering a fascinating glimpse into the history of weaponry. For fans of musical theatre, the Lynn Riggs Memorial is dedicated to the playwright whose work inspired the classic Broadway musical Oklahoma!, adding another layer to the town’s cultural significance.
Another notable landmark in Claremore is the Belvidere Mansion, a beautifully restored turn-of-the-century home that now serves as a museum. This architectural gem offers a glimpse into the lives of the region’s wealthy elite. Legend has it that the mansion is haunted, adding an element of mystery and intrigue to the visitor experience. History buffs will also appreciate the Oklahoma Military Academy Memorial Museum, which chronicles the history of this esteemed institution. To round out a visit to Claremore, visitors can explore the numerous antique stores that line the downtown streets, offering a chance to uncover unique treasures and connect with the past.
Beyond Will Rogers, Claremore can also claim singer Patti Page as one of its own. The singer sold millions of records during the 1950s and 60s, including the classic "Tennessee Waltz". Page died at age 85 on New Year’s Day 2013.
As you continue your journey along Route 66, a "must stop" to see the Blue Whale in Catoosa before heading down the road to Tulsa. Claremore stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the American West, a place where history comes alive and the legacies of pioneers, artists, and everyday people continue to inspire.