Along historic Route 66, Claremore is known for its railroad systems and Will Rogers. It is also home to Rogers State University and a historic downtown.
Population: 18,581
What is the most surprising fact about Claremore?
Due to the railroads and Route 66, Claremore was a fast-growing town around the turn of the 20th century, and was once larger than Tulsa!
Does Claremore have any famous residents?
Will Rogers, Oklahoma’s favorite son, is from Claremore. Will Rogers was an entertainer, movie and Broadway star, writer, speaker, comedian, philosopher and world figure.
Additionally, we are home of entertainer Patti Page, astronaut Stuart Roosa, and playwright Lynn Riggs, who wrote Green Grow the Lilacs, which was adapted by Rogers and Hammerstein to the famous musical “Oklahoma!”
What are the biggest annual events in your town?
We have the largest, free fair in the state - Rogers County Fair - every spring, and the annual Bluegrass and Chili Festival (September 8-10, 2016) in the fall.
Two other major events are the Will Rogers Stampede PRCA Rodeo (May 27, 2016) and downtown’s Dickens on the Boulevard (November 18-19, 2016), a Victorian-themed Christmas festival.
What do you want visitors to discover in your community?
We have world-class museums - the Will Rogers Memorial Museum & JM Davis Arms & Historical Museum - as well as Route 66 destinations, and a fabulous historic downtown.
What initiatives is Claremore currently working on?
Our historic downtown is in the process of achieving a National Register of Historic Places designation.
How many family-friendly activities does Claremore offer?
Claremore is definitely a family-friendly community. The Claremore Parks & Recreation department maintains a beautiful lake with running and hiking/biking trails, museums and activities tailored to children, a major Easter egg hunt and a ton of family-oriented events.
Where would you take someone on a first date in Claremore?
West Bend on the Green, a monthly outdoor food-truck and music event.
Sound like a cool place?
