Okemah

Okemah is a small town in Okfuskee County, Oklahoma, situated in the central region of the state. The community has a modest downtown area with local businesses and services, surrounded by open spaces and light development.

The town was founded in the early 1900s as the railroad expanded into the area, bringing rapid growth to the region. This development reflected the broader settlement patterns happening across Oklahoma at that time.

The town celebrates Woody Guthrie, a folk musician and social activist born here, through local festivities and memorials that keep his influence alive. Walking through town, you'll notice how residents take pride in this connection to American folk music history.

The town is small and easy to navigate, with a compact center where most services are concentrated. Government offices and basic facilities are straightforward to find and access in person.

The downtown features two distinctive water towers marked "Hot" and "Cold," which have become recognizable symbols of the town. This unusual labeling makes them a visual landmark that catches visitors' attention.

Location: Okfuskee County

Inception: 1902

Elevation above the sea: 277 m

Website: http://okemahok.org

GPS coordinates: 35.43111,-96.30556

Latest update: December 14, 2025 07:50