| Duncan - Southwest (Great Plains Country) | |||||||||
The spirit that turned cowboys into legends, cattlemen into men of fortune and oilmen into industry giants lives on in Duncan. Museums, antique and collectible shops and special retreat programs all share Duncan's rich and colorful heritage with visitors. The Chisholm Trail Heritage Center, a modern multi-million dollar facility, offers a look back into the life, hardships and historical significance of one of Oklahoma's most intriguing eras, the Chisholm Trail. The center puts visitors on the old trail through its artifacts, interactive displays, videos and tours. This is the only location along the famous Trail where visitors can learn its complete story and actually stand on its visible remains. The museum offers guided and self-guided tours to Trail sites and other nearby historical sites. An exquisite 35-foot bronze statue entitled "On the Chisholm Trail" by artist Paul Moore flanks the Heritage Center. Three years in the making, this incredible bronze captures the severity of the trail in the life-sized longhorn cattle, the horses carrying the trail hands who drove the herds, and more. The Chuck wagon and the trail dog trotting alongside are followed by a sea of longhorn cattle trailing off into the horizon. The Stephens County Historical Society Museum features displays and artifacts illustrating early land-run and settlement life in Oklahoma together with early 20th century memorabilia. Still other displays illustrate the rise and growth of internationally-know Halliburton Energy Services founded in Duncan. Duncan is known as the "Antique Capital of Southwest Oklahoma". Duncan's historic downtown Main Street and outlying shops all boast one of the highest per capita concentrations of antique dealers in Oklahoma. When visitors see the broad selections and low prices, they appreciate how Duncan has earned this reputation. Year round events, recreational facilities, outdoor recreation and special retreats combine to renew visitors with the spirit that built the west and tamed the wide-open spaces. For more information, contact Duncan Convention & Visitors Bureau or call 1-800-782-7167. |



