ACRG April26 FINAL

Awesome Adair County

Resource Guide

2026

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ADAIR COUNTY

Stilwell T h e S t r a w b e r r y C a p i t a l o f t h e Wo r l d

Democrat Journal WWW.STILWELLDEMOCRAT.COM

StilwellDemocrat-Journal

April 2026 • Awesome Adair County Resource Guide | Stilwell Democrat Journal

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Table of Contents Stilwell celebrates new wellness center .............................................................. 6, 8 Family fun at Fall Fest ......................................................................................... 9, 10 Maryetta students learn fire safety ......................................................................13 Pinkertons retire, sell Stilwell Pharmacy..............................................................14 It’s all about leadership.......................................................................................16 Adair County government.....................................................................................17 It’s all about community.....................................................................................18-22 Resources............................................................................................................24-26

Awesome Adair County Resource Guide Heather Kilpatrick Publisher Kim Poindexter Regional Editor Joe Mack Advertising Manager

Designed and Produced by the Stilwell Democrat Journal, a CNHI Publication 918-696-2228 www.stilwelldemocrat.com

Stilwell T h e S t r a w b e r r y C a p i t a l o f t h e Wo r l d

Democrat Journal WWW.STILWELLDEMOCRAT.COM

April 2026 • Awesome Adair County Resource Guide | Stilwell Democrat Journal

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StilwellDemocrat-Journal

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Here’s to your health

Stilwell celebrates new wellness center Nearly 200 people gathered Monday, Aug. 4 for the grand opening of the Mary L. Holland Carson Wellness Center.

Under awnings set up in front of the stateof-the-art facility, several speakers addressed the crowd before ribbon-cutting photos were taken and tours given inside the center.

Cherokee Nation Deputy Secretary of State Canaan Duncan served as emcee, introducing speakers and special guests. CN Chief of Staff Dr. Corey Bunch welcomed everyone and opened the gathering with prayer.

Deputy Chief Bryan Warner summed up his words in the final sentence: “The best thing we can do is love one another.”

Tribal Councilor Cody Poindexter said the wellness center offers an opportunity to care for the body, mind and spirit in harmony.

“This is an opportunity to care for ourRenee Fite | City of Stilwell selves and others,” said Poindexter.

Tribal Councilor Josh Sam noted this is the strongest the Cherokee Nation tribe has Stilwell Mayor Jean Ann Wright was the first nurse ever been, “thanks to the leadership of [Prin- at the old Cherokee Nation clinic. cipal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr.] and Deputy Chief Warner.”

Forty-five years ago, Jim Carson said, no one would have dreamed of this wellness center.

“Drew and I are pleased to follow in our father’s footsteps. The dividends to this center are many and not about money. Our grandmother was a proud Cherokee citizen, put on the Dawes Rolls at age 2,” said Carson.

The Cherokee Nation is stepping up, doing things here no one else does for Cherokee Country, said Carson.

“This is a fabulous structure. I’m enrolled and I need to come out and get some help,” Carson said. “Drew and I appreciate being a small part of the healthy vision.”

Mayor Jean Ann Wright said there’s no better place to be from than Stilwell.

Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. said the wellness center was See CENTER, page 8 built without federal dollars.

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Stilwell Democrat Journal | Awesome Adair County Resource Guide • April 2026

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Kester Family Funeral Ser vice 1704 W. Young Ave. Stilwell, OK, 74960 Phone: (918) 410-0081 www.kesterfunerals.com April 2026 • Awesome Adair County Resource Guide | Stilwell Democrat Journal

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Center

Continued from page 6

“I graduated from the very first Cherokee Nation nursing program and was the first nurse hired at the old Cherokee Nation clinic,” said Wright. “I never dreamed something so amazing would be here. It’s not just a place for guys to work out, but there’s classes and child care. I hope this place becomes a cornerstone for our health and a place for families.”

Executive Director of Public Health Lisa Pivec said growing up as a child at Peavine School, she never imagined a building like this here.

“The Cherokee Nation is leading the country in wellness. When you say that your family matters, put your priories where your heart is,” said Pivic.

The keynote speaker was Hoskin.

“Putting this facility aside, the Mankiller Clinic is exactly where it should be. This facility is for folks who are new to exercise,” said Hoskin.

Mary L. Holland is part of the generation of people who looked behind them and wondered if the best days of being Cherokee were gone.

“They helped bring us to this day,” said Hoskin. “Chief Mankiller wanted the tribe to stand on its own financially and it does. This facility costs $21 million and we didn’t take a penny of federal dollars. It’s all built by the Cherokee Health System. There are now more ways for people to be healthy where they are. It’s a world-class system as envisioned by Chief Mankiller, who said we can do health care better ourselves.”

In the end, Duncan challenged the audience to seize the opportunity for role class health care.

Inside the wellness center, the crowd tasted avocado toast prepared by the Kawi Cafe staff, and folks tried out different pieces of equipment and checked out the childcare room and classroom. An elevator offered a lift to the second floor and back down, and stairs also give access to the upstairs where additional equipment is available.

A station was set up in the lobby for people to sign up for services.

— City of Stilwell

Renee Fite | City of Stilwell

A ribbon cutting was held for the Mary L. Holland Carson Wellness Center grand opening.

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Stilwell Democrat Journal | Awesome Adair County Resource Guide • April 2026

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Lots of chili was enjoyed by people who voted for the Best in Adair County. Chris Davenport and others served chili Saturday at Fall Fest ‘25.

Family fun at Fall Fest Chili, vendors, produce, music highlight event After early morning sprinkles of rain, the sun was shining as the Fall-O-Ween Parade made its way through town on Saturday, Nov. 1 for the second annual Fall Fest.

The crowd was smaller this year, but those attending enjoyed hot chili, shopping the many vendors, and live music. From delicious fresh produce, to honey, winter blankets and hats, to wooden items and jewelry, the vendors were busy throughout the day.

“Fall Fest 2025 was a wonderful success,” Mayor Jean Ann Wright said. “Great vendors, tasty chili, fantastic local music, parade with more than 40 participants were some of the fun activities everyone seemed to enjoy.

The dessert contest, pumpkin decorating, and costumed dogs events were also very popular. I’m so glad everyone had fun. And I appreciate everyone who came out to support Fall Fest, whether vendors, contestants, parade entries or visitors.”

See FEST, page 10

First-place chili cook-off winner for business was the Stilwell Fire Department. Mayor Jean Ann Wright presents the award to new firefighter Tyler Rinehart.

April 2026 • Awesome Adair County Resource Guide | Stilwell Democrat Journal

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Fest

Continued from page 9

Vendor Eubanks Produce was very busy, said Nichole Starr.

“We carry and sold a lot of Ashlynn Ingram breads, and we sold a lot of our canned goods and produce and pie pumpkins,” said Starr.

The parade was really neat, Starr said.

“We enjoyed the camaraderie of talking to everyone, and seeing people we hadn’t seen in a while,” Starr said. “We helped some people learn to use their Cherokee Nation Farmers Market cards and get some fresh produce.”

It’s important to bring different vendors out, she said.

“Rose Farms had a good selection and Tina has bought apples and other things from us to can. People enjoyed a variety of vendor items,” said Starr.

About 40 entries were in the Fall-O-Ween parade. Led by parade marshal Bigfoot, then the Stilwell Police Department, Stilwell fire trucks and a sheriff’s vehicle, there were Dream Star royalty, a marching group of Stilwell Middle School Pom Squad girls, and County Commissioners Charles Boecher’s and Larry Woods’ men drove many of the trucks used by their departments.

Also new was the dog costume contest, won by Tyler Lawson with Freya; second place was Isabella Fuson with Cheez It; and third place was Summer Shell with Mickey Moon.

The pumpkin-decorating contest, with nine impressive and colorful entries, was won by Ayanna Ketcher, first; Jennifer Cal-

ico, second; and the Stilwell Fire Department, third.

The chili cook-off had two categories.

Business winners were Stilwell Fire Department, first; Carson Bank, second; and Fraternal Order of Police, third. Individual winners were Ike Merchant, first; Kimberly Unger, second; and Barrett Harris, third.

Tracy Sims, with Carson Community Bank, said, “Chili Withdrawal” was the name of their chili.

“It’s made with a lot of interest and balance. We will loan you a spoon so you can experience the positive taste. You can bank on us for a good bowl,” said Sims.

Awards were given to all winners present, including the dessert winners from the Oct. 20 contest at City Hall and Fall-O-Ween Yard contest.

Parade winners were: Mayor’s Best of Show, Alyson Lawson; Grand Reserve, Stetson Russell; Reserve, Stilwell High School Cherokee Chief Dyran Buckner; first place, Dream Star Da’Vayah Unger; second place, County Commissioner Charles Boecher; and third place, County Commissioner Larry Woods.

Live music began at 9 a.m. with Vince Turner, at 11 with the 4 F’s – Dr. Carl Farinelli, Matthew Farinelli, John Fite and Dr. Brett Fitzgerald – and at 1 p.m. Canyon Sons, including Kevin Kimble, Michael Kimble, Jeff Porter and Steven Rankin.

Next year, the city will host more second Saturday events.

— City of Stilwell

First-place chili cook-off winner in the individual category was Ike Merchant, who is receiving his award from Mayor Jean Ann Wright.

Ayanna Ketcher, right, took first in the pumpkin-decorating contest. At left is Mayor Jean Ann Wright.

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Stilwell Democrat Journal | Awesome Adair County Resource Guide • April 2026

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April 2026 • Awesome Adair County Resource Guide | Stilwell Democrat Journal

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Stilwell Democrat Journal | Awesome Adair County Resource Guide • April 2026

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SPARKING EDUCATION Maryetta students learn fire safety at Stilwell FD Fire safety education helps children understand what to do in an emergency. It especially helps them to be less fearful of firefighters wearing gear, so they will run toward instead of away from them in a fire.

Last week, Maryetta pre-kindergarten students from Patty Fredricks’ classroom visited the Stilwell Fire Department and met mascot Sparky the Dog. The children sat down in a row, chatting and looking around at firetrucks. Livi Scott, firefighter EMS, greeted the group and welcomed them to the fire station.

“Do you have a plan where to go if there’s a fire at your house, a meeting place?” Scott asked.

Several answered at once, “outside” and “on the playground” and “to my parents’ room.”

Showing her gear, Scott said, “When there’s a fire, we put on this big suit. I don’t want you to be afraid.”

“Do you know what this is?” said Scott, holding a fire alarm. “When you hear that, it’s a fire. Go to your meeting place.”

Next, she showed her boots and explained how that equipment protects her feet while at a fire.

Putting on her gear, she said, “Gloves protect my hands. This jacket has my name on it so they will know it’s me in a fire. This cap is to protect my neck and ears.”

Lifting her air tank and putting it on, she explained it was to help her breathe in a fire.

“It looks like a backpack,” one child said. Scott agreed that it is put on like a backpack and secured tightly.

Scott asked the group if they could breathe in smoke, and everyone appeared to say they couldn’t. Next, she asked what they knew about fire trucks.

As the next visitor came out – mascot Sparky the Dog – the children clapped and giggled in excitement. They began to approach Sparky and Fredricks told them to sit

Renee Fite | City of Stilwell

Maryetta pre-kindergarten student Mia Kester, left, smiles at mascot Sparky the Dog as she touches his ear. and wait for their turn. Each had a picture taken with Sparky. Next they were able to climb into a fire truck and have a picture taken.

Since it rained, no ride was taken on a fire truck, but the kids left all smiles for the fun they had.

Cherokee Nation Family Advocates Valerie Robertson, Shelly Hummingbird and Terri Fourkiller work at Maryetta School and were on hand to help with the kids.

“This is such a good opportunity for the kids to learn safety and get used to firefighters in case they’re ever in a fire, so they won’t be so scared if ever they’re in that situation,” said Robertson.

In between taking pictures of the kids on the fire truck, Fredricks said she likes to bring the kids to the fire station.

“We learn about fire safety at school, and this gives them more of a visual, more hands on activities. And they get to see the firemen,” said Fredricks.

— City of Stilwell

April 2026 • Awesome Adair County Resource Guide | Stilwell Democrat Journal

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THE END OF AN ERA Pinkertons retire, sell Stilwell Pharmacy Mike and Sandra Pinkerton will no longer be found greeting customers and filling prescriptions at Stilwell Pharmacy, after the couple retired earlier this year.

The Pinkertons started working at the pharmacy in August 1984, after purchasing it from Keith and Darlene Bertelsen.

The pharmacist, who was from Tahlequah, wanted to get closer to home after graduating from Pharmacy School in Weatherford, at Southwestern Oklahoma State University.

The couple found Stilwell to be a wonderful place to call home, raise a family and grow a business.

“We like the small-town feel, and know most all our customers,” he said. “We had steady growth. Customer confidence grows as business grows. Treat patients right with respect and they reward you with customer loyalty.”

The couple have many fond memories of Stilwell.

“The marquee we used to have was manual letter placement. No one liked taking down and replacing the letters 12 feet in the air. Then we upgraded to an electronic sign with a remote computer to easily change the message.

Only thing was sometimes, the proofread would not be done until it was already broadcasting – oops,” said Pinkerton.

The downtown area where the pharmacy was located was filled with many iconic characters, Pinkerton said. Those included Burnell Isaacs of the Mercantile, Jack and Joy Smay of ACE Hardware, Bill and Linda Roedenbeck of Fletchers Hardware, Dollie Kester of Stilwell Cafe, Tom Carson of Carson Loan, and Jimmy Taylor, M.D. When the couple purchased the pharmacy, it was on Division Street.

“It was a great location, but parking was not always available, so in 1991, we built and opened a new facility with a drive-thru window. That was especially helpful when the COVID outbreak occurred,” he said.

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Mike and Sandra Pinkerton at Stilwell Pharmacy Monday, March 31 – their last day at work before retirement.

The Pinkertons appreciate being in Stilwell, and will miss seeing customers and friends.

“We’ll miss our patients, and the many interesting stories and family updates are what we will miss most,” he said.

Supporting the Chamber of Commerce is one way the Pinkertons have given back, and they’ve always been supportive of the community.

“Sandra and I have always been members of Chamber of Commerce, but until recently, not able to participate in lunches and activities. Once my son became a pharmacist, he came back to work part time for me, which gave me free lunch time, so I was able to go to Chamber lunches,” he said.

Times change, though, and a new face will be behind the pharmacy counter.

“The pharmacy was purchased by Jayson Carter, who lives in Vian area, and his full-time pharmacist, David Wilkerson, will be the pharmacist in charge. We have maintained most of our work force and will be able to answer questions and assist patients, just like I did for years,” he said.

What will retirement look like for the Pinkertons?

“Grandkids are in the mix of things I want to spend time with. We plan trips in advance for overseas and less planning for interstate trips. Lots to see in the USA,” he said. “I would like to get better at Spanish.”

They have no plans to relocate.

“We like it here,” Pinkerton said.

— City of Stilwell

Stilwell Democrat Journal | Awesome Adair County Resource Guide • April 2026

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April 2026 • Awesome Adair County Resource Guide | Stilwell Democrat Journal

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It’s all about leadership Government

U.S. Congress

U.S. Senator

Josh Brecheen (R) District 2

BRECHEEN

Claremore District Office: 223 W. Patti Page Blvd., Claremore, OK 74017, 918 383-6262. Washington, D.C. office: 1208 Longworth House Office Building, Washington D.C. 20515 (202) 225-2701

Alan Armstrong (R)

B-33 Russell Senate Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Phone: 202-224-4721

ARMSTRONG

U.S. Senator

James Lankford (R)

LANKFORD

(Tulsa) 918-5817651, 401 S. Boston Ave., Suite 2150, Tulsa OK 74104; (Washington) 202-224 5754, 316 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C., 20510

State Representative District 86

State Senator District 4 Tom Woods (R)

David Hardin (R)

(R) District 4, Westville 2300 N. Lincoln Blvd.

Oklahoma City. 405521-5576

405-557-7394, 2300 N. Lincoln Blvd. Room 250, Oklahoma City, OK 73105 HARDIN

WOODS

Adair County Commissioners

District 1 Charles Boecher 16

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District 2 Alan Starr

District 3 Larry Wood

Stilwell Democrat Journal | Awesome Adair County Resource Guide • April 2026

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Adair County government

Adair County Assessor Teresa Turner 918-696-2012

Adair County Clerk Timothy Fishinghawk 918-696-7198

Adair County Court Clerk Nichole Cooper Coiner 918-696-7633

Adair County Treasurer Ann Bishop 918-696-7551

911 Tina Longshore 918-696-4019

Adair County Election Board Secretary Jan Wilhite 918-696-7221

Associate District Judge

Acting District Judge

Liz Brown

Brett Smith

918-696-2356

918-696-7150

Emergency Management Director Billy Willis

918-507-0522

Sheriff

Fire Chief

Jason Ritchie

Charley Coombes

600 South Paul Mead Drive

14 West Walnut Street

918-696-2106

918-696-7412

April 2026 • Awesome Adair County Resource Guide | Stilwell Democrat Journal

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It’s all about community

A history of Adair County

Adair County was established at the Oklahoma Constitutional Convention in 1906 from the Going Snake and Flint districts of the Cherokee Nation combined, it says at okhistory.org. It was named an influential Cherokee Adair family, William Penn Adair. The region is part of the Ozark Plateau foothills of the Boston Mountains and the Illinois River running through it. Agriculture has been a major part of the county since statehood, in 1907, with wheat, oats, sorghums, corn, cattle and hoses as principal products. Historic sites in the county include Fort Wayne,built in 1838, the Adair County Courthouse, Buffington Hotel, Opera Block and Golda’s Mill.

The county is infamous for gangs sometimes considered outlaws including the Starrs, Ned Christie, James brothers and Pretty Boy Floyd aka Charles Author. Some who put the county on the national map include the first female Chief of the Cherokees Wilma Mankiller, former Speaker of the House Larry Adair and football star Sam Claphan, who played for the University of Oklahoma and San Diego Chargers. The history of Adair County includes the 23 communities, many of which still have churches, schools and community centers: Bell, Cherry Tree, Chewey, Christie, Elm Grove, Fairfield, Greasy, Lyons Switch, Marietta, Mulberry, Old Green, Peavine, Piney, Proctor, Rocky Mountain, Salem, Stilwell, Titanic, Watts, Wauhillau, Westville, West Peavine and Zion.

Stilwell City of Stilwell Mayor: Jean Ann Wright City Clerk/Treasurer: Larry Nettles Community Development: Ross Johnson Media Director: Renee Fite Human Resources Director: Cindy Carson Municipal Works: Dale Dandridge Mayor City Council Members: Debbie Johnson, Lane Jean Ann Wright Kindle, Coye Nettles, Jim Spray and Barrett Harris Chief of Police: Chad Smith Fire Chief: Charley Coombes Sports Facility Manager: Matt Cochran 18

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Adair County Schools

Belfonte Public Schools: 918-427-3522, 918-696-7181 Grades: Pre-K to 8th Superintendent: Ms. Bobbie Weddle Belfonte address: 475751 State HWY 101, Muldrow, OK 74948 https://www.belfonte.k12.ok.us Cave Springs Public Schools:

918-775-2364 Grades: Pre-3 to 12th Superintendent: C.D. Thompson High School Principal: Ashley Miller Address: 463423 E. 923 Rd., Bunch, OK 74931 Mailing address: P.O. Box 200 Bunch, OK 74931 https://www.cavesprings.k12.ok.us

Dahlonegah Public Schools:

918-696-7807 Superintendent: Steven Cain Principal: Shawnita Armstrong Address: 468739 E. 878 Rd., Stilwell, OK 74960 https://www.dahlonegah.k12.ok.us

Maryetta Public Schools:

918-696-2285 Grades: Pre-3 to 8th Superintendent: Lori Means Principal: Carlene Yell Address: 100 Maryetta Rd., Stilwell, OK 74690 https://www.maryetta.k12.ok.us

Peavine Elementary:

918-696-7818 Grades: Pre-3 to 8th Superintendent: Amanda Long Address: 77943 Hwy-59 N. Stilwell, OK 74960 Mailing address: P.O. Box 389, Stilwell, Oklahoma 74960 https://www.peavinepanthers.net

Rocky Mountain Public School: 918-696-7509 Grades: Pre-3 to 8th Superintendent: Alicia Ketcher Address: 463355 E 835 Rd., Stilwell, OK 74960 https://www.rockymtn.k12.ok.us

Stilwell Democrat Journal | Awesome Adair County Resource Guide • April 2026

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Stilwell Public Schools:

918-696-7276 Grades: Pre-K to 12th Superintendent: Matthew Brunk High School Principal: Julie Newman 918-696-7001 x2322 Middle School Principal: Jennifer Turman 918-696-7001 x3221 Elementary School Principal: Mike Merrie, 918-696-7001 Address: 1801 W. Locust St. Stilwell, OK https://www.stilwellk12.org

Watts Public Schools:

918-422-5131 Grades: Pre-K to 12th Superintendent: Thomas Yeager Principal: Tony Mitchell Address: 616 6th St, Watts, OK 74964 https://www.wattsschool.com

Westville Public Schools

Grades: Pre-K to 12th Superintendent: Ryan Swank High School: 918-723-5644 Principal: Shelly Cooper Junior High: 918-723-3181 Principal: Kevin Yeager Elementary: 918-723-3351 Principal: Kellie Edwards Address: 500 W. Chincapin Westville, OK 74965 https://www.westville.k12.ok.us

Zion Public School:

918-696-7866 Grades: Pre-3 to 8th Superintendent: Clay Yeager Principal: Stacy Kester Address: 470658 E. 850 Rd. Stilwell, OK 74690 https://www.zionjets.com

Churches ASSEMBLY OF GOD: 219 W. Walnut 918-696-6969 BARON BAPTIST: Pastor Scott Latta 918-696-6471 BETHEL FULL GOSPEL: 4 miles S of Stilwell on Hwy 59, Pastor Johnny Byrd, 918-696-3954 or 918-696-7830 BIDDING CREEK BAPTIST: 462931 E 800 Rd, Welling, OK, 918-696-6290 BUNCH BAPTIST CHURCH: 84504 S 4660 Rd, 918-696-2841 BUNCH ASSEMBLY OF GOD: S. 464 Rd

(Bunch Rd) Pastor: Frank Loyd 918-775-2439 CALVARY BAPTIST: Summers, AR, 501824-5748 CALVARY APOSTOLIC TABERNACLE: 714 W. Locust St. (located in Mr B’s shopping center) Pastor Lowell Essex 918-575-4631 CALVARY SOUTHERN BAPTIST CHURCH: 918-696-6886, 920 N. 4th St., Stilwell CENTRAL BAPTIST: 1803 S 3rd St. 918-696-5985 CHERRY TREE BAPTIST CHURCH: 2015 RR 1, Stilwell, 696-5384 CHRISTIAN WORSHIP CENTER: 471686 Hwy100, Pastor Marty Jones, 918-696-4061 CHUCULATE BAPTIST CHURCH: 8 miles South on Hwy 59 from Stilwell, Pastor Doyle Sanders, 918-575-4283 CHURCH OF CHRIST: Section Line Rd, Hwy 100W, 918-696-5816 CHURCH OF CHRIST FOUR CORNERS: 918-696-5215 DAYSTAR MISSION: 18 W Ash, 918-696-3185 DIOCESE OF TULSA: 23 W. Division St, Rev. David Medina, Spanish Mass Sunday 8:30am, 918-704-7689 ECHOTA BAPTIST CHURCH: Hwy 100 West, 918-696-3784 ELM GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH: N 4768 Rd., Council Hill, 918-474-3238 EMMANUEL BAPTIST CHURCH: 5 miles South on Hwy 59, go to Landfill Rd, then 2 miles on right., 918-696-5731 EAST CHURCH OF CHRIST: Section Line Rd Stilwell, 918-696-5816 FAIRFIELD BAPTIST CHURCH: Off Hwy 51 E., P.O. Box 960, Pastor Gary Leach, 918-696-7525, 918-696-6383 FAITH TABERNACLE: 81957 S 4740 Rd 3 miles E Hwy 51, Pastor Charles Crozier 918-696-3579 FELLOWSHIP BAPTIST CHURCH: 100 N. 4700 Rd. Hwy 100, 918-696-5081 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH: 801 W. Hickory, 918-696-3144 FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH: 306 N 2nd, 918-696-7241 FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: 4 N 3rd St, 918-696 2484 FOURKILLER BAPTIST: 3 miles N on Piney Rd., 918-696-4373 FREE HOLINESS MISSION: 313 W Elm St FREEDOM CHRISTIAN CENTER: 1111 N. 2nd St, 918-972-8307

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GUIDING LIGHT PENTECOSTAL CHURCH OF GOD: 10 miles S on Hwy 59, 918-696-3579 HONEY HILL CHURCH: N 4748 Rd, Pastor Glen Hopkins, 918-696-4577, www. honeyhillchurch.org MULBERRY TREE BAPTIST CHURCH: 918-696-2186 NEW LIFE CHURCH: 2 miles on Orchard Rd, Pastor Max Ford, 918-696-2041 NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH: HWY 100 E. & BELL RD, 918-696-4383 OAK GROVE CHURCH: 5 miles E on Hwy 51, 918-507-3584 PEAVINE CHURCH: E. 0778 Rd., 918-696-7173 PENTECOSTAL HOLINESS CHURCH: 102 N 6TH ST, 918-696-5747 PINEY CREEK: 474622 E 788 Rd, Pastor Avery McGee, 918-575-7967 PLEASANT VIEW CHURCH OF CHRIST: 918-696-5816 POWER HOUSE CHURCH: 1/2 mile W on Hwy 51, Pastor Darrell Lacie, 918-696-1765 ROCK FENCE BAPTIST CHURCH: 9 miles S on Hwy 59, East on 923 Rd, go 4.2 m, Pastor Judge Fourkiller, 918-316-7647 ROCK SPRINGS BAPTIST CHURCH: OK-100 , 918-696-3662 ROCKY MOUNTAIN BIBLE CHURCH: 462937 E. 830 Rd., 91-696-2407 SALEM BAPTIST CHURCH: 472891 E 893 Loop, 918-696-7383 SANDERS BAPTIST CHURCH: RR3 Box 1220, 918-696-5744 SEQUOYAH BAPTIST CHURCH: 86443 S 4637 Rd, 918-696-2319 STILWELL INDIAN MISSION UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: E 0820 HWY 51 US 59, 918-696-2319 STILWELL INDIAN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: RR 5 Box 5220, Stilwell STILWELL LIBERTY BAPTIST: 702 W Walnut St., 918-696-6466 STILWELL SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH: 1225 W. Locust St., 918-696-2768 THE CHURCH OF GOD OF THE APOSTOLIC FAITH: 12888 Centerpoint Church Rd, 918-696-7147 VICTORY SOUTHERN BAPTIST CHURCH: Highway 51 E. Box 1194, 1/2 Mile East of Highway 59, 918 696-4963 20

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Stilwell history Stilwell became the county seat around statehood in 1907, when the first governor, Charles Haskell was determined the winner after three elections, according to okhistory. org. The community was founded with the construction of the Kansas City, Pittsburg and Gulf Railway, later renamed Kansas City Southern, which traveled from Missouri to Mexico.

The Boston Mountains were challenging for railroad tracks so Arthur Stilwell brought his through Indian Territory, and the town was incorporated in 1897 and named for Stilwell.

B.G. Fletcher moved his hardware store to Stilwell and was the oldest business in Stilwell until a fire burned it down in 2012. Today it is the site of the new downtown Fletcher Park, dedicated in 2020. Stilwell incorporated in 1897, with Rufus Allison serving as the first mayor.

In 2002, Marilyn Hill Russell became the first female mayor and today Jean Ann Wright is mayor.

Education is still a priority if one considers how strong the rural schools are along with Stilwell Public Schools. Cherokee’s first established schools in Indian Territory.

Agriculture was the strength of the economy and Stilwell Canning Company was established in 1942. It became Stilwell Foods in 1974 and today the facility is known as Schwan’s.

Watts Mayor: John Ford Vice Mayor: Mary Rose Address: 220 2nd St., Watts, OK 74964 Phone: 918-422-5924 Board of Trustees: Ethan Chaney, Lisa Fletcher, Deborah Mayor DeShane John Ford Chief of Police: Ralph Colantuono Clerk: Brigitte Beavers Water Superintendent: Terry Woods Watts Fire Department: Chief Josh Adams Town Attorney: Ralph Keen 918-6963355, 205 W Division St. Stilwell CPA: Kris Kirk 918-723-4181, 216 W. Williams, Westville

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Watts history

Churches

Daniel Boone’s youngest son, Captain Nathan Boone, helped survey the area for a military road, according to okhistory.org. Founded in 1838, Watts is the northern most town in Adair County. It was named for John Watts, a Chickamunga Cherokee chief.

The town grew when the Kansas City Southern Railway laid tracks through the area in 1895 and built a switch there, meaning it could switch the engines to another direction on a roundhouse. In 1913 a three story school house was built, replaced by a brick structure in 1924.

Frack C. Adair, the first county sheriff and Frank Howard started the first bank, Guarantee Bank.

There were two drug stores, a bakery, several hotels and rooming houses, a lumberyard, hardware store and two livery stables and three doctors, A. J. Sands, I. W. Rogers and Ezell W. G. White, who was also a Justice of the Peace.

ASSEMBLY OF GOD: Hwy 62 E, Westville, 918-723-3407 BARON CHURCH OF CHRIST: US-59, 918 778-3240 CHRISTIE FREEWILL BAPTIST: Westville, 918-341-5103 CHRISTIE SOUTHERN BAPTIST: Hwy 62, Westville, 918-696-2471 CORNERSTONE BAPTIST: 1 mile S. on Hwy 62, Morris Rd, Westville CHURCH OF CHRIST: 2nd & Pine, Westville, 918-723-5249 FAITH HOLINESS GRACE POINT OUTREACH CENTER: 75099 US-59, 417-569-7922 FIRST UNITED METHODIST: 900 W Taft, Westville 918-434-3177/918-557-7337 HEAVENLY HOST HOLINESS MINISTRIES: Hilltop acres in Westville Pastor Sue Choate 918-696-9310 IMPACT CHURCH: 918-723-5481 JAYBIRD CHURCH: RR 2 Box 654 , 918723-5450 LANDMARK MISSIONARY BAPTIST: 1 mile E of Westville on Hwy 62, 918-575-2643 MOUNTAIN VIEW FREEWILL BAPTIST: 1 mile E of Westville on Hwy 62 PENTESCOSTAL HOLINESS: Westville, 918-723-5481 NEW BEGINNING HOUSE OF PRAYER: 310 Cherokee St, Westville, Pastor James Dorsey

Westville Mayor: Adam Mckenzie Vice Mayor: Chris Noe Town Clerk: Deneille Hembree Fire Chief: Jeremy Hanvey Interim Police Chief: David Mahler Emergency Management Director: Billy Ames

Mayor Adam McKinzie

Beat the heat! Westville’s Splash Pad offers cool fun for children of all ages. Enjoy interactive water features, safe surfacing, and a refreshing way to spend a hot summer day.

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TABERNACLE OF PRAISE: 2/10 mile S of Hwy 59 & 62 Jct on Hwy 59, Westville, 918-723-4930 OLD GREEN BAPTIST CHURCH: 2 miles W of Westville on Hwy 62 Ross Swimmer Rd WESTVILLE CHURCH OF CHRIST: 706 2ND ST. WESTVILLE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH: 1254 S. LOCUST AVE, 918-723-5620 WESTVILLE FIRST BAPTIST: Westville, 918-723-5620 WESTVILLE FULL GOSPEL CHURCH: 1 mile W of 4-way, half mile N, Sunday 6 pm, Wednesday 7pm

Westville history

started in 1903. The Buffington Hotel was constructed around 1910 and was the primary hotel for the town and Opera Block was an entertaining center for traveling Vaudeville and Chautaquas.

In 1941 the Griffin Canning company opened, in 1974 Baldor electric began and in 2004 Greenland Composites was established.

Reverend Jesse Bushyhead, a Cherokee religious and political leader helped bring opposing factions together to create the Cherokee Nation, is buried here along with Goingsnake in Westville.

Proctor

Also established through the railroad system coming though the county, the town was named for James West, whose son was an attorney for the railroad, according to okhistory.org.

The post office was opened in 1895 and A. J Edmonton published the town’s first newspaper in 1898. The first school was

Community Center: 463240 US 62; To rent contact board members: Brenda Dodd 918-453-3539; Pam Kindle - 918723-3773; Julie Barnett 918-723-4222; Lisa Luethje 918-410-6648.

Post Office: 800 275-8777, 918 723-3101; Hwy. 100 US 62

Since 1987

119 S. 2nd Street, Stilwell OK 918-696-5096 Monday-Friday 7:00am -10:00pm Saturday & Sunday 8:00am - 10:00pm 22

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RESOURCES

Indian Capitol Technology Center: 918-696-3111, 3320 U.S.-59, Stilwell, OK 74960 KI BOIS Community Headstart: 918-431-1284

City

Stilwell City Hall: 918-696-7919, 20 A. 1st St., Mayor, City Clerk/Treasurer, Code Enforcement/Animal Control, Economic Development, Cemetery plots, Encumbrance, Payroll and Human Resources Watts City Offices: 918-422-5924, Mayor, City Clerk, Fire Chief, Police Chief, Water Superintendent Westville Town Hall: 918-723-3988, 221 S. William Street, Town Clerk, Police Department

Electric vehicle charging station

ChargePoint Charging Station: 888-7584389, 470479 OK-51.

Francis Energy Charging Station: 800489-1588, 802 S. 4th Pl.

Emergency

Adair County EMS: 911 for emergencies.

For non emergencies 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday- Friday 918-410-7161, ext 101

Employment

Counseling

A Healing Path: 918-696-2181 Crescent Clinic: Wellness Center, 918-410-2210 Fundamentals Counseling LLC: 918-723-3735 New Creation Counseling: 479-524-0477 Community Crisis Center: 800-400-0883 Redefineu, LLC: 918-431-0634 OKLA. Systems of Care: 918-775-7787

Workforce OK Oklahoma: 918-696-6608 People’s Link Staffing Solutions: 918696-6045 Penmac Staffing: 918-410-9930, 716 S. 2nd St., Stilwell

County

Stilwell FedEx On-site: 800-463-3339, 317 N. 2nd St.

Adair County Courthouse: 918-696-3308, 503 W. Division St., Court Clerk, County Clerk, County Assessor, County Treasurer, County Election Board, County Commissioners, District and Associate District Judge, 911 and OSU Extension Office

Disabilities

Americans With Disabilities: 800-514-0301 Council for Exceptional Children: 888232-7733 KI BOIS Disability Program: 918-647-7264 Oklahoma Able: 800-257-1705 Oklahoma Equipment Connections: 888-885-5588 Oklahoma School for the Blind: 918-781-8200 or 1-877-229-7136

Education

4-H: 918-696-2253 Adult Learning Resource Center: 918-776-0976 Cherokee Nation Child Development Center : 918-696-3222, N. 8th St. 24

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Fair board

Joe Dugger, District 1, Jimmy Jones, District 2 and Wade Hampton, District 3

FedEx Fire

Stilwell Fire Department: 918-696-7412, 14 W. Walnut St. Watts Fire Department: 918-422-5221, Josh Adams- Fire Department Chief, 473589 E 638 Rd. Watts Westville Fire Department: 918-7235101, 778 E0705 Rd. Rural Fire Departments: Adair County Tri-Community: 918-696-5609, RR 5 Box 1580 Bell: 918-869-4312, 101 W Walnut St. Stilwell Christie Proctor: 918-723-4005, PO Box 832, Westville, OK 74965 Kirk Mountain: 918-696-4906, R R 5 Box 5080, Stilwell Mid County: 918-575-0234, RR 2, Nox 127, Westville Highway 51: 918-696-2100, 1020 N. 2nd St., Stilwell Highway 100: RR 1 Box 1026

Food & clothing

Adair County Resource Center: 918-696-2484

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Adair County Salvation Army: 918-696-4018 Emmanuel Food Pantry: 918-696 5731 First Christian Church: 918-696-241 Jeremiah 29:11 Foundation: 918-575-2844 Hope Center: 918-723-4673 New Creature Ministries: 918-237-0249 Orchard Road Community Outreach: 918-457 7011 Westville Food Pantry: 918-723-5640

Haul, move, ship & tow

4B Land Service LLC (Dozer, Excavation, and Dump Truck): 918-931-0070, S. 4665 Rd. Alliance Shippers Inc.: 918-778-3435, RR 3 Box 5102, Westville Bruner’s Towing and Recovery: 918-696-3280, 82681 HWY 51 We Haul Moving: 918-207-9231

Hotlines

211 Helpline: 211 Abuse Hotline: 800-722-4996 Alcohol and Drugs Helpline: 800-821-4357 American Red Cross: 800-494-0275 Child and Adult Abuse Hotline: 877-882-5122 DACA (Bikers Against Child Abuse): 877-422-2286 National Suicide Prevention: 800-273-8255 Oklahoma Safeline: 800-522 7233 Poison Control Center: 800-522-4611, 800-222-1222 Help-In-Crisis: 918-696-6865 Safeline/Crisis Hotline: 800-522-7233

Housing

Davidson Heights Senior Living: 918-696-2494 Garden Walk of Stilwell: 918-696-3957 Housing Authority of the Cherokee Nation: 918-456-5482, Tahlequah Stilwell Housing Authority: 918-696-2494 Stilwell Senior Living center: 918-456-5484 UKB Housing: 918-871-2773

Law enforcement

Adair County Sheriff’s Department/Jail: 918-696-2106: 600 S. Paul Mead Rd., Stilwell, OK 74960, Sheriff Jason Ritchie.

Cherokee Nation Marshall Service: 918-207-3800, Tahlequah

Oklahoma Highway Patrol: 918-683-3256, Muskogee Stilwell Police Department: 918-696-2882, 17 S. Second St., Chief of Police Chad Smith, 918-696-2375 United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians Lighthorse Police: 918-871-2811, Tahlequah Watts Police Department: 918-422-8835, Chief of Police Matt Stilwell: 918-4225924 Westville Police Department: 918-723-5101, 221 Williams Ave., Chief Scotty Mitchell

Library

Stilwell Library: 918-696:7512, 5 N. 6th St. Westville John F. Henderson Library:

Medical

Adair County Health Department: 918-696-7292, 600 W. Hickory St. Memorial Hospital: 918-696-3101; 1401 W. Locust St. Stilwell NeoHealth Westville Medical Center: 918-723-3997 Physician’s Clinic: 918-696-4064, 1401 W Locust St # 102, Stilwell

Mental health

Addictions/Substance Abuse

Crescent Clinic: Wellness Center: 918-410-2210 Celebrate Recover Saturdays @ Abundant Life Church AA/NA: 918-458-5503 Drug and Alcohol Recovery Program: 918-207-7181 Drug Court Sequoyah Co.: 918-790-2219 Tobacco Helpline: 800-784-8669

Newspaper

Stilwell Democrat Journal: 918-696-2228; 118 N. 2nd St., Stilwell

Nonprofits & other assistance

Adair County Community Ministries: 918- 696-4981; 918-696 2484 Beyond the End of the Trail Cultural Arts District: https://www.beyondthetrail.art/ Catholic Charities: 918-775-6111 Court Appointed Special Advocates CASA volunteer to be a voice for children in court - 918-456-8788

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Department of Human Services: 918-696-3118 EODD Area Agency on Aging: 918-683-7891 Habitat for Humanity: 918-453-1332 Kiwanis Club of Stilwell: www.strawberrycapital.com Northeastern Child Care Resource and Referral Agency: 918-453-5300 Oklahoma State University Extension Office: 918-696-2253 People Inc.; 918-696-5536 Salvation Army: 918-696-4918 Stilwell Chamber of Commerce: 918-696-2535 Social Security Administration: 877-575-5195 The Blessing Closet and Be the Village: Highway 59 beside Laundry in Westville, Jenna Sitsler and Nicole McCarter

Parks and refuge Adair Park, Stilwell Bell Community Park Candy Mink Park Carson Park Dahlonegah Park Fletcher Park downtown Stilwell Keeler Park Westville City Park Watts Town Park Ozark Plateau National Wildlife Refuge Workman Mountain in Salem; Killer Mountain in Bell, Muskrat Mountain in Cherry Tree, Elm Grove Cemetery in Zion and Step Mountain in Stilwell

Pharmacy Stilwell Pharmacy: 918-696-2500, 202 S 2nd St. Walmart Pharmacy: 918-696-3186, 84127 US-59

Phone/internet OzarksGo (866) 569-2757 Verizon 918-686-3588, 1739 US-59 Walmart Connection Center: 918-696-6628, 84127 US-59

Post office United States Postal Service: 800-275-8777, 16 S. 2nd St.

Ride

Sooner Ride: 918-404-4500 KATS Transit: 918-696-4787 26

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Sanitation

Stilwell Sanitation Dept. 918-696-7920, W. Walnut St.

Tag

Stilwell Tag Office: 918-696 3841, 115 W. Division St. Westville Tag Agency: 918-723-3762, 218 Williams Avenue, Westville

Tribal

Bureau Of Indian Affairs: 580-924 8280/ or 800-522 6170 Capital Museum: 918-453-5000 Cherokee Nation: 800-256-0671 Cherokee Nation Complex: 918-696-3124 Cherokee Nation Environmental: 918-453-5444 Cherokee Nation Human Services: 918-453-5422 Cherokee Nation Human Resource: 918-453-5050 Cherokee Nation ICW: 918-458-6900 Oklahome Indian Legal Services: 405-943 6457 Tribal Registration: 918-458-6980 United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians: 918-871-2800

Utilities: gas & water

Ozarks Electric: 800-521-6144, 470479 OK-51.

Stilwell Utilities: 918-696-5084, 925 W Hickory St. Westville Utility Authority: 918-723-5512 Gas Company: Northeast Oklahoma Public Facilities Authority: 918-456-6268 Stilwell Utilities: 918-696-5084, 925 W. Hickory St. Cherry Tree Water District: 918-696-2936, 827 W. Locust St. Rural Water District 2: 918-696-3918, 81173 US-59 Adair County Rural Water District 3: 918-778-3448 Watts Water Utility Department: 918-422 5924

Veterans

American Legion and VFW Post 102: 918-696-3646, Rick Van Syckle 918-575-7965 Westville VFW Post 3698: James Oliver 299-4685 Veteran Crisis Line: 800-273-8255 Cherokee Nation Veteran Center: 800-256-0671 Stilwell Democrat Journal | Awesome Adair County Resource Guide • April 2026

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1976-2026

CENTURY 21 Wright Real Estate | 1100 N 2nd St, Stilwell, OK | 918.696.3793 ACRG April26 working.indd 28

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