Introduction to Purcell, Oklahoma
Purcell was founded as a railroad town in 1887. It was named after Edward Benton Purcell, the director of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad, the first line to run through the town. In its initial years, the economy of the city largely depended on agriculture. The first permanent residents in the area were Chickasaw Native Americans.
Purcell and nearby Attractions
- McClain County Historical Society & Museum
- Timberlake Rose Rock Museum
- Westwood Water Park
- Little River Zoo
- Lake Thunderbird State Park
- Henry Overholser Mansion
Things To Do In Purcell
While in Purcell, those interested in the area’s history should visit the McClain County Museum, the Oklahoma Museum of Natural History and the Timberlake Rose Rock Museum. The Henry Overholser Mansion and the Oklahoma City National Memorial Center are also popular tourist destinations. One can plan a day trip to the Lake Thunderbird State Park or the Little River Zoo from Purcell. Purcell hosts the McClain County Free Fair every September and the Native American Festival every November as well.
Flights are available from Will Rogers World Airport.
Purcell Higher Education
The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus, Rose State College and Oklahoma City Community College offer courses in higher education.