Cimarron Heritage Center: A Treasure Trove of History and Heritage
Nestled in the westernmost county of Oklahoma, Boise City has weathered the storms of history and emerged with a rich collection of stories and artifacts. From surviving the Dust Bowl in the 1930s to being bombed in 1943, this resilient town is a testament to the enduring spirit of its residents.
As part of our Passport to the Panhandle promotion this summer, we visited the Cimarron Heritage Center, a museum in the Panhandle town of Boise City. The museum began its journey in 1994 with an endowment from former resident Charles French and has become a beacon of history and culture. The initial donation of the "Cox House" marked the beginning of an astonishing collection that now includes the French Building, the Edgington Building, the Sante Fe Depot, a Dust Bowl house, and an original dugout home painstakingly moved rock by rock and recreated for visitors to experience underground living as an early settler.
Visitors are encouraged to allow themselves plenty of time to delve into the rich history of the Sante Fe Trail, the accidental B-17 bombing of Boise City, and the severe dust storms known as the Dust Bowl era. The museum also boasts an impressive collection of tractors, offering a glimpse of the region's agricultural traditions.
As you near the museum, you'll be welcomed by "Cimmy," a 35-foot-tall, 65-foot-long metal dinosaur accurately scaled to match a dinosaur excavated in Cimarron County. This unexpected landmark indicates that you're almost there. Once you enter the parking lot, you'll spot one of the six practice bombs dropped on Boise City in 1943, serving as a poignant reminder of the town's unique history.
The Cimarron Heritage Museum hosts visitors from around the world and is a must-see for anyone living in the panhandle. The museum director, Jody Risley, emphasizes the museum's importance to the area. "We keep this open to preserve and protect our history, our stories, so they are not lost forever," said Risley.
Members participating in the Passport to the Panhandle must fill out a “passport” at each museum location, from which prizes will be drawn for participation at each location. Members completing all four museum tours before August 15 will be entered to win the grand prize.
The Cimarron Heritage Center tells the story of the Oklahoma Panhandle, its resilience, and its heritage. Make sure to visit and immerse yourself in the captivating stories and artifacts that define this remarkable museum.