Miami, Oklahoma – Culture on Route 66
Nestled in the northeastern corner of Oklahoma, the city of Miami, Oklahoma, (pronounced "My-am-uh") stands as a vibrant testament to the intertwined histories of Native American heritage, boom-and-bust mining eras, and the enduring allure of Route 66. This unassuming city, the first chartered town in Indian Territory, boasts a unique blend of cultural influences and historical significance, making it a compelling destination for travelers seeking an authentic glimpse into the heartland of America.
The very name, Miami, Oklahoma, is a tribute to the Miami Tribe of Indians, underscoring the deep-rooted connection to the land’s original inhabitants. The story of its founding is intertwined with the vision of Wayland C. Lykins, the son of a missionary to the Peoria Indians. Lykins, driven by a desire to establish a cattle ranch on the expansive prairie, journeyed to Washington, D.C., where he successfully petitioned the Secretary of the Interior to purchase land for the burgeoning town on behalf of the Ottawa Tribe of Indians.
This pivotal sale, approved on March 2, 1891, paved the way for new settlers to acquire land and establish their lives in the nascent community. Initially known as "Jimtown," a moniker derived from the presence of four men sharing that common name, the settlement underwent a transformation when Jim Palmer established the post office in 1890. In a gesture of affection and respect, Palmer renamed the town Miami, Oklahoma in honor of his wife, a member of the Miami Indian Tribe.
For a time, Miami, Oklahoma seemed destined to follow the trajectory of many other small towns in Indian Territory, its growth steady but unremarkable. However, a dramatic shift occurred in 1905 with the discovery of rich deposits of lead and zinc. This mineral wealth ignited a boom, attracting a surge of miners and prospectors to the area. The population of Miami, Oklahoma exploded, experiencing an astonishing increase of 141% in a relatively short period. The landscape transformed as mining operations reshaped the land, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s identity and economy.
The arrival of Route 66 further cemented Miami, Oklahoma‘s place on the map. The Mother Road, a symbol of American freedom and mobility, brought a steady stream of travelers and commerce to the city. Roadside services flourished, catering to the needs of those traversing the iconic highway. Among the most notable landmarks to emerge during this era was the Coleman Theatre, a testament to the vision and ambition of zinc and lead-mining millionaire George L. Coleman.
In 1929, Coleman erected the Coleman Theatre, a magnificent structure designed to enrich the cultural landscape of Miami, Oklahoma. Built in the Spanish Revival style, the theatre exuded an aura of grandeur and sophistication. Its stage played host to a diverse array of performances, from Vaudeville shows to screenings of the latest Hollywood blockbusters. The Coleman Theatre became a beloved gathering place, attracting audiences from near and far. Over the years, it welcomed legendary entertainers such as Will Rogers, Tom Mix, and the Three Stooges, solidifying its place in entertainment history.
Despite facing periods of hardship, the Coleman Theatre has persevered, remaining a beacon of culture and entertainment in Miami, Oklahoma. In 1989, the Coleman family generously gifted the theatre to the City of Miami, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Since then, the theatre has undergone extensive restoration, meticulously returning it to its former glory. Today, visitors can marvel at its stunning architecture, attend live performances, and experience the magic of a bygone era.
The cultural tapestry of Miami, Oklahoma is further enriched by the presence of several Native American tribes who continue to call the area home. These include the Miami, Modoc, Ottawa, Peoria, Seneca-Cayuga, Wyandot, Quapaw, and Eastern Shawnee tribes. Their ancestral lands and cultural traditions contribute to the unique identity of the region.
For those seeking to delve deeper into the history and heritage of Miami, Oklahoma, the Ottawa County Historical Society’s Dobson Museum is an invaluable resource. The museum’s exhibits showcase Native American artifacts, offering insights into the lives and cultures of the region’s original inhabitants. In addition, the museum displays artifacts and documents that chronicle the lives of early settlers and the legacy of the area’s once-thriving lead and zinc mines.
A short distance from Miami, Oklahoma, lies a remarkable relic of the past: the last remaining section of the original nine-foot-wide "Ribbon Road." This narrow stretch of pavement, predating Route 66, has been designated as an Oklahoma National Historic Landmark. Constructed in the early 1920s, the Ribbon Road is shrouded in local lore. Legend has it that the state’s budget constraints led to a compromise, resulting in a road that covered half the mileage at half the width.
This unusual stretch of vintage pavement zigzags for approximately 13 miles between Miami, Oklahoma and Afton, offering a nostalgic journey back in time. Remarkably, the original pavement remains in relatively good condition, considering its age. However, travelers are advised to exercise caution when navigating this narrow roadway, particularly when encountering oncoming vehicles. It is especially important to proceed with care during periods of rain or when driving an oversized vehicle.
Along the Ribbon Road, the small community of Narcissa once thrived, established in 1902. Today, little remains of this once-bustling town, with only an old garage and gas station serving as silent reminders of its past. The Ribbon Road and the remnants of Narcissa offer a poignant glimpse into the early days of automobile travel and the challenges faced by those who traversed the nation’s highways in the pre-interstate era.
Miami, Oklahoma offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its Native American heritage and mining boom legacy to its Route 66 connections and historical landmarks, the city provides a rich and rewarding experience for visitors seeking an authentic slice of Americana. Whether exploring the Coleman Theatre, delving into the past at the Dobson Museum, or venturing down the Ribbon Road, Miami, Oklahoma promises a journey of discovery and appreciation for the diverse threads that have woven together the fabric of this captivating city.