"Like Everyone Else - Only Different" Guthrie by mrclay2000

Guthrie Travel Guide: 68 reviews and 96 photos

Humble Beginnings - Rich Heritage

Like just about every other city or town in central Oklahoma, Guthrie came into being overnight, on April 22, 1889, when the Indian Territory (2 million acres in central Oklahoma) were opened to white settlement. At noon on that day, 50,000 settlers gathered to await a cannon shot that signaled the mad dash into the unclaimed lands. Those who went at the sound (or boom) of the gun were known as "Boomers." Many of these settlers found trespassers already encamped on choice preserves and locations, leading to claim disputes with local authorities, as to whose claim should predominate -- either that of the "boomer" who started with the others, or the "sooners" who started way too soon.

The Case Today

Guthrie city limits

From these humble beginnings, Guthrie suddenly became the largest American town west of the Mississippi. Originally the state capital of Oklahoma (1907-1910), she lost this distinction in 1910 when the State Seal of Oklahoma was surreptitiously removed (many say "stolen") to Oklahoma City, which by virtue of possession became the new state capital.

Pros and Cons

Pros:Frontier culture and buildings gorgeously preserved
In a nutshell:If you're looking for the authentic Old West, look no further

Last visit to Guthrie: Apr 2003
Intro Written May 19, 2003
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Reviews (57)

Old North Tower Off The Beaten Path (12)

In Edmond, just a little south of Guthrie is one of the state's least known but most interesting gems, something you'd... more travel advice

First Christian Church Off The Beaten Path (12)

Of least interest perhaps to church architecture aficionados visiting Guthrie is the First Christian Church on Noble... more travel advice

First Baptist Church Off The Beaten Path (12)

Less ornate and less promising in its architecture is the First Baptist Church on Broad Street. This single-story... more travel advice

First United Presbyterian Church and belltower - Guthrie

First United Presbyterian Church Off The Beaten Path (12)

First United Presbyterian also graces church row with its imposing red facade, its Gothic-like belltower or campanile... more travel advice

Things to Do (22)
See All Foucart Building
Favorites (3)
See All Logan County War Memorial
Hotels (3)
See All Farthest From the Action
Nightlife (2)
See All Down by the Railroad

Shopping (4)
See All Gifts and Cabin Decor
Restaurants (3)
See All Guthrie's Finest
Transportation (1)
Carriage
Local Customs (7)
See All The Best Things in Life are Free

Comments (16)

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BruceDunning Jul 4, 2010 at 12:10 PM

The TV features this a lot and I just went to St. Joseph Missouri where they talked of military guiding the wagon trains and settlers out that way. Great Pictures and comments.
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Yaqui May 7, 2007 at 1:32 PM

My grandfather raced with a two horse buckboard and beat out four others on horse back to get 80 acres of land back then in the Delhi community in Ok. This town reminds me of Sayre, Ok.
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Rich62 Feb 4, 2006 at 2:34 PM

My wife and I plan to make a stop in Guthrie later this month when traveling from Nebraska to Texas. Your page is very helpful! Thanks much!
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daats Jul 12, 2005 at 8:03 AM

Ah, Home Sweet Home. I was born in Guthrie Oklahoma! Lived there till I was six and still return to visit family there from time to time. Great town, great page!
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Cruefan Jun 14, 2005 at 11:55 AM

I tried living in the city (Boston, NYC) but I've returned to my hometown. Small town America is the only way to go. great page !!!
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Katmosphere Apr 19, 2005 at 9:13 PM

wow, never heard of this place before, looks very ummmmmm.....interesting..
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iandsmith Dec 11, 2003 at 10:47 PM

...and I thought it must be named after Arlo! Usual high quality page, we wouldn't expect anything less!
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syllybabe Sep 12, 2003 at 4:48 AM

If I ever get myself to Guthrie I know which page to print out as a guide.
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dr.firas Jul 15, 2003 at 10:07 AM

Funny comment from Jessica LOL That's a great place to have Holidays indeed Mike!
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skye820 Jul 14, 2003 at 10:30 AM

Very detailed description of Miss Lizzies Bordello ;) What an interesting place that would be to host a VT meeting...