Tahlequah

Tahlequah

General Information
Name	Tahlequah
Native Name
Other Names
Settlement Type	City
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates	35°55 55°N
Map
Population
Total	16,819
Density	auto per km²
Area
Total	31.8 km²
Land	31.8 km²
Water	0.0 km²
Government
Type
Leader
Time Zone
Standard	UTC-6
DST	UTC-5

Tahlequah is a city in Cherokee County, Oklahoma, United States. It is the county seat of Cherokee County and the capital of the Cherokee Nation.

History

Tahlequah was established as the capital of the Cherokee Nation in 1839, following the Trail of Tears, the forced relocation of the Cherokee people from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States. The city was named after the Cherokee word "Tahlequah," which is believed to mean "two is enough" or "just two" in reference to a meeting place.

Geography

Tahlequah is located in the northeastern part of Oklahoma, in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. The city covers a total area of 31.8 square kilometers, all of which is land. The Illinois River runs nearby, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation such as canoeing and fishing.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Tahlequah had a population of 16,819. The city is home to a diverse community, with a significant portion of the population being of Native American descent, primarily Cherokee.

Education

Tahlequah is home to Northeastern State University, one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in Oklahoma. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its strong emphasis on education and health sciences.

Economy

The economy of Tahlequah is supported by a mix of education, healthcare, retail, and tourism. The presence of Northeastern State University and the Cherokee Nation contributes significantly to the local economy.

Culture and Attractions

Tahlequah is rich in Cherokee culture and history. The city hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Cherokee National Holiday, which celebrates the signing of the Cherokee Nation Constitution. Visitors can explore the Cherokee Heritage Center, which offers exhibits and programs on Cherokee history and culture.

Transportation

Tahlequah is accessible via U.S. Route 62 and State Highway 82. The city is served by the Tahlequah Municipal Airport for general aviation.

Healthcare

Tahlequah is served by the Northeastern Health System, which provides a range of medical services to the community. The city also has several clinics and healthcare providers specializing in various fields.

External links

• Official website of Tahlequah
• Cherokee Nation