Wheelock Academy, Historic boarding school complex in McCurtain County, Oklahoma.
Wheelock Academy is a historic school complex in McCurtain County with seven preserved buildings, including LeFlore Hall, which now serves as the main museum space. The grounds show the layout and design of a 19th-century educational institution, with structures for classrooms, dormitories, and administrative functions.
The academy was founded in 1832 by Presbyterian missionary Alfred Wright as an educational center for Choctaw girls and operated for more than a century. It closed in 1955 after providing generations with learning opportunities and playing a key role in Choctaw educational history.
The school taught a mix of English, practical skills, and Choctaw traditions, allowing students to maintain their heritage while gaining broader knowledge. The buildings themselves reflect how education here was meant to honor both indigenous ways and academic subjects.
Visitors can arrange guided tours of the museum and grounds by contacting the administration office in advance. It is helpful to call ahead to confirm availability and learn about current site conditions and what to expect during your visit.
Former students and their descendants gather yearly at the site to share memories and keep the connection to this school alive. These reunions show how deeply the academy remains part of family history and community identity for many people.
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