Fort Washita, OK
Music connected to Fort Washita
About Fort Washita
- • Confederate General Albert Pike commanded troops at Fort Washita during the Civil War.
- • Though not invented here, Fort Washita was a key site in the early history of the Chickasaw Nation.
- • Its establishment aimed to protect the Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations from Plains tribes.
- • Some believe treasure is buried near the fort, hidden during the Civil War evacuation.
- • The Civil War led to Fort Washita's abandonment by the U.S. Army and its Confederate use.
- • Fort Washita was named for Arbuckle's Washita River post and was established in 1842.
- • The current population is small, reflecting its history more than modern growth.
- • Its elevation of around 600 feet offers views of the surrounding Oklahoma plains.
- • Agriculture and ranching are important to the modern local economy near the fort.
- • A visit here evokes a sense of quiet reflection on a tumultuous past.
- • The Oklahoma City Thunder are the closest major pro sports team, winning the Western Conference in 2012.
- • Local high schools often compete fiercely in football, reflecting small-town pride.