Cities and Towns in Craig County, Oklahoma
Founded in 1907, Craig County is one of 77 counties in the state of Oklahoma. Historically, Craig County was formed from Cherokee Nation. The city of Vinita is the county seat. With FIPS code of 35, Craig County has a population of 14,115 and area of 761 square miles (1,971 km²).
List of all cities in Craig County, OK alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Big Cabin, OK | 74332 | 918 |
| Centralia, OK | 74301 | 918 |
| Pensacola, OK | 74301 | 918 |
| Vinita, OK | 74301 | 918 |
| Welch, OK | 74369 | 918 |
| White Oak, OK | 74301 | 918 |
Major Cities and Towns in Craig County, Oklahoma
Vinita
Overview
- Area: Approximately 6.0 square miles
- Population: 5,743 residents (as of 2020)
- ZIP Code: 74301
- Latitude: 36.6381° N
- Longitude: 95.1547° W
Location and History
Vinita, the county seat of Craig County, is situated in northeastern Oklahoma at the intersection of U.S. Route 60 and U.S. Route 69. Established in 1871 as a railroad station by the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad, it was originally named “Downingville” but was later renamed Vinita, possibly after Vinnie Ream, a renowned sculptor. Vinita holds the distinction of being the first city in Oklahoma to have electricity. The city’s growth was significantly influenced by its strategic location along major transportation routes, including the historic Route 66. Over the years, Vinita has developed into a regional hub for commerce and culture, while preserving its rich historical heritage.
Education
Vinita is served by the Vinita Public Schools district, which includes Hall-Halsell Elementary School, Will Rogers Elementary School, Ewing Halsell Middle School, and Vinita High School. The district is committed to providing quality education and offers various extracurricular activities to support student development.
Landmarks
Notable landmarks in Vinita include the Eastern Trails Museum, which showcases the history of the area through exhibits on Native American artifacts, pioneer life, and the impact of the railroad. The Will Rogers Memorial Rodeo, held annually since 1935, is a significant event that celebrates the city’s western heritage. Additionally, the historic Hotel Vinita, built in 1930, stands as a testament to the city’s architectural history.
Bluejacket
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.3 square miles
- Population: 339 residents (as of 2020)
- ZIP Code: 74333
- Latitude: 36.8001° N
- Longitude: 95.0666° W
Location and History
Bluejacket is located in the eastern part of Craig County, near the Oklahoma-Kansas border. The town was established in 1871 as a station for the Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railway and was named after Charles Bluejacket, a prominent Shawnee chief and Methodist minister. In its early years, Bluejacket served as a trading post and agricultural center for the surrounding area. The town’s growth was closely tied to the railroad, which facilitated the transportation of goods and people. Over time, Bluejacket has maintained its small-town charm and rural character.
Education
Bluejacket Public Schools serves the community, offering education from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The district includes Bluejacket Elementary School and Bluejacket High School, both of which emphasize academic excellence and extracurricular engagement.
Landmarks
A notable landmark in Bluejacket is the Bluejacket School Gymnasium, constructed in 1939 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA). The gymnasium is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a reminder of the community’s historical architecture. The town also hosts annual events and festivals that celebrate its agricultural heritage and foster a strong sense of community among residents.
Welch
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.6 square miles
- Population: 619 residents (as of 2020)
- ZIP Code: 74369
- Latitude: 36.8745° N
- Longitude: 95.0933° W
Location and History
Welch is situated in the northern part of Craig County, near the Oklahoma-Kansas border. The town was established in 1888 and named after A.L. Welch, a railroad official. The arrival of the railroad played a crucial role in Welch’s development, facilitating the transportation of agricultural products and contributing to its growth as a farming community. Over the years, Welch has maintained its rural character and close-knit community atmosphere.
Education
Welch Public Schools serves the town’s educational needs, offering classes from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The district includes Welch Elementary School and Welch High School, both of which are known for their strong academic programs and extracurricular activities.
Landmarks
Welch is home to several historical sites, including the Welch Bank, which reflects the town’s early 20th-century architecture. The town also hosts annual events and festivals that celebrate its agricultural heritage and foster a strong sense of community among residents.
Ketchum
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.5 square miles
- Population: 442 residents (as of 2020)
- ZIP Code: 74349
- Latitude: 36.5223° N
- Longitude: 95.0225° W
Location and History
Ketchum is located in the southwestern part of Craig County, near the shores of Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees. The town was established in 1898 and named after James S. Ketchum, a prominent local rancher. The construction of the Pensacola Dam in the 1940s, which created Grand Lake, transformed Ketchum into a popular destination for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities. Over time, Ketchum has developed into a vibrant community that balances its rich history with modern amenities.
Education
Ketchum Public Schools serves the community, offering education from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The district includes Ketchum Elementary School and Ketchum High School, both of which emphasize academic excellence and extracurricular engagement.
