West Siloam Celebrates its 50th Anniversary
The town of West Siloam Springs is celebrating its 50th anniversary this summer.
Founded on July 10, 1969, this town of approximately 900, is in Delaware County, in scenic northeast Oklahoma.
West Siloam Springs was founded as a result of near-by Siloam Springs population spilling across the Arkansas-Oklahoma state line, creating a need for a new Oklahoma town.
We recently had the opportunity to talk with Mayor Elaine Carr regarding the town and it’s 50-year history.
Q. Mayor, as you reflect on the 50th anniversary of your town, what do you think have been some of its most significant accomplishments?
A. I think working with the Cherokee Nation on a water tower for the town, improving our emergency management and fire services, and the expansion of our city park.
Q. As a 25-year resident of the town, what are a few of your favorite memories?
A. I had the opportunity to meet Vice-President Mike Pence on a municipal trip to Washington, D.C. last year. Also working closely with Congressman Mark Wayne Mullins, Senator Wayne Shaw, and State Representative David Hardin on critical issues affecting our town. Working with the Cherokee Nation and Entertainment division over the last 22 years has been great as they have heavily invested in our town. Focusing on economic development by recruiting and helping businesses locate to West Siloam Springs has been wonderful and has helped create that needed sales tax base.
Q. West Siloam Springs is in such a beautiful area of our state. What attractions and activities do you have that other Oklahoman’s need to know about and travel to?
A. One of our main attractions is the Natural Falls State Park, which is located on US Hwy 412. The park features a 77-foot waterfall, hiking, fishing, disc golf and outdoor volleyball. In addition, the park allows camping in Yurts, which are on-site, tents, and RV’s. Another great attraction is the Cherokee Hotel and Casino. The 140-room hotel features on-site dining, table games and much more.
Natural Falls State Park website: www.travelok.com/state-parks/5293
Cherokee Hotel and Casino website: www.cherokeecasino.com/west-siloam-springs
Natural Falls State Park was recently a featured segment on
an episode of Discover Oklahoma