Pawhuska

Pawhuska is a county seat in Osage County, Oklahoma, serving as the administrative center for the Osage Nation within the rolling terrain of Green Country. The town spreads across several blocks with low brick and wood buildings lining the main street and residential areas extending into the surrounding hills.

Founded in 1872 when the Osage Nation settled in this area and established their headquarters here. The oil boom of the 1920s brought economic growth and left its mark on downtown architecture.

The town honors Chief Paw-Hiu-Skah through its name, and the Osage Nation maintains a strong presence in daily life and local institutions. Visitors encounter this living connection through language programs and community events that carry forward indigenous traditions.

Three main highways connect the town to other parts of Oklahoma, including US Route 60 running east to west. A small airport on the edge of town provides access for private planes and smaller charter aircraft.

George Edward Tinker founded the Indian Herald newspaper here in 1875, marking the first publication owned by Native Americans in the territory. The paper documented Osage community life and covered local affairs from an indigenous perspective.

Location: Osage County

Inception: 1872

Elevation above the sea: 250 m

Part of: Green Country

Website: http://pawhuska.com

GPS coordinates: 36.66917,-96.33306

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:00