Tahlequah

Tahlequah
City
City of Tahlequah
Downtown Tahlequah
Flag of Tahlequah Flag Official seal of Tahlequah Seal
Nickname(s):  Capital of the Cherokee Nation
Motto(s):  "Where the Trails Cross"
Coordinates:
Country	United States
State	Oklahoma
County	Cherokee
Founded	1839
Incorporated	1909
Founded by	Cherokee Nation
Named for	Tahlequah
Government
• Type	Mayor-Council
• Body	Tahlequah City Council
• Mayor	Sue Catron
Area
• Total	12.79 sq mi (33.1 km2)
• Land	12.79 sq mi (33.1 km2)
• Water	0.00 sq mi (0.0 km2)
Elevation	856 ft (261 m)
Population  (2010)
• Total	16,481
• Density	1,288.47/sq mi (497.48/km2)
Time zone	UTC-6 (CST)
• Summer (DST)	UTC-5 (CDT)
ZIP codes	74464-74465
Area code(s)	539/918
FIPS code	40-72450
GNIS feature ID	1102342
Website	www.cityoftahlequah.com

Tahlequah is a city located in Cherokee County, Oklahoma, United States. It is the capital of the Cherokee Nation and is known as the "Capital of the Cherokee Nation." The city is situated at the intersection of several historic trails, hence its motto, "Where the Trails Cross." Tahlequah has a rich history and is home to many cultural and historical landmarks.

History

Tahlequah was founded in 1839 as the capital of the Cherokee Nation after their forced removal from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States, known as the Trail of Tears. The city was named after the historic Cherokee town of Tahlequah, which means "plains" or "prairie" in the Cherokee language. The Cherokee Nation established a government in Tahlequah, and it served as the capital until Oklahoma became a state in 1907.

Geography

Tahlequah is located in northeastern Oklahoma, approximately 65 miles southeast of Tulsa. The city is situated in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains and is surrounded by scenic beauty. The Illinois River flows through Tahlequah, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.

Demographics

According to the 2010 United States Census, the population of Tahlequah was 16,481. The city has a diverse population, with a significant Native American presence due to its status as the capital of the Cherokee Nation. The city has experienced steady population growth in recent years, attracting residents with its small-town charm and cultural heritage.

Government

Tahlequah operates under a Mayor-Council form of government. The city is governed by the Tahlequah City Council, which consists of the mayor and six council members. The mayor is elected by the residents of Tahlequah and serves as the chief executive officer of the city. The council members are elected from six wards and serve as representatives of their respective districts.

Economy

Tahlequah's economy is diverse, with sectors such as education, healthcare, retail, and tourism playing significant roles. Northeastern State University, located in Tahlequah, is a major employer and contributes to the city's educational and cultural landscape. The healthcare industry is also a significant contributor to the local economy, with several hospitals and medical facilities serving the community and surrounding areas.

Education

Tahlequah is home to Northeastern State University (NSU), which is the oldest institution of higher education in Oklahoma. NSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its strong emphasis on Native American culture and education. The city also has several public and private schools that provide quality education to its residents.

Culture and Attractions

Tahlequah is rich in Native American culture and heritage. The Cherokee Heritage Center, located in Tahlequah, is a museum and cultural center dedicated to preserving and promoting Cherokee history and traditions. The center features exhibits, live demonstrations, and educational programs that showcase the rich heritage of the Cherokee Nation.

Other notable attractions in Tahlequah include the Murrell Home Historic Site, which is a restored antebellum mansion that offers a glimpse into the life of a prominent Cherokee family in the 19th century. The Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum, the Cherokee National Prison Museum, and the Cherokee National Capitol Building are also popular tourist destinations.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the natural beauty of Tahlequah by visiting the Illinois River, which offers opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and camping. The city also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Cherokee National Holiday, which celebrates the heritage and culture of the Cherokee Nation.

Notable People

Tahlequah has been home to many notable individuals, including:

• Wilma Mankiller - First female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation
• Bill John Baker - Former Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation
• John Ross - Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation during the Trail of Tears
• Muscogee (Creek) Nation - Principal Chief of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation
• John Hope Franklin - Historian and author

External links

• City of Tahlequah official website
• Cherokee Heritage Center
• Northeastern State University