Nestled in the westernmost county of Oklahoma, Boise City has weathered the storms of history
and emerged with a rich collection of stories and artifacts. From surviving the Dust Bowl in the
1930s to being bombed in 1943, this resilient town is a testament to the enduring spirit of its
residents.
As part of our Passport to the Panhandle promotion this summer, we visited the Cimarron
Heritage Center, a museum in the Panhandle town of Boise City. The museum began its
journey in 1994 with an endowment from former resident Charles French and has become a
beacon of history and culture. The initial donation of the “Cox House” marked the beginning of
an astonishing collection that now includes the French Building, the Edgington Building, the
Sante Fe Depot, a Dust Bowl house, and an original dugout home painstakingly moved rock by
rock and recreated for visitors to experience underground living as an early settler.
Visitors are encouraged to allow themselves plenty of time to delve into the rich history of the
Sante Fe Trail, the accidental B-17 bombing of Boise City, and the severe dust storms known as
the Dust Bowl era. The museum also boasts an impressive collection of tractors, offering a
glimpse of the region’s agricultural traditions.
As you near the museum, you’ll be welcomed by “Cimmy,” a 35-foot-tall, 65-foot-long metal
dinosaur accurately scaled to match a dinosaur excavated in Cimarron County. This unexpected
landmark indicates that you’re almost there. Once you enter the parking lot, you’ll spot one of
the six practice bombs dropped on Boise City in 1943, serving as a poignant reminder of the
town’s unique history.
The Cimarron Heritage Museum hosts visitors from around the world and is a must-see for
anyone living in the panhandle. The museum director, Jody Risley, emphasizes the museum’s
importance to the area. “We keep this open to preserve and protect our history, our stories, so
they are not lost forever,” said Risley.
Members participating in the Passport to the Panhandle must fill out a “passport” at each
museum location, from which prizes will be drawn for participation at each location. Members
completing all four museum tours before August 15 will be entered to win the grand prize.
The Cimarron Heritage Center tells the story of the Oklahoma Panhandle, its resilience, and its
heritage. Make sure to visit and immerse yourself in the captivating stories and artifacts that
define this remarkable museum.