Things to do In Frederick, Oklahoma
We’re deceptively entertaining..
From a nationally recognized wildlife refuge and a living history WWII airborne team to a charming 1920s townsite and captivating global trophy collections, Frederick offers a wealth of unique and memorable experiences waiting to be discovered.
Hackberry Flat Wetlands
405-990-4977 | 1 Mile East & 6 Miles South of Frederick
Discover a unique Oklahoma treasure where a history of human ingenuity has given way to a thriving natural haven. Once considered a farming challenge, Hackberry Flat now stands as a testament to conservation, offering unparalleled opportunities for birdwatching, hunting, and environmental education, all anchored by its informative visitor center.
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Hackberry Flat is a nationally recognized bird habitat managed by the OK Department of Wildlife Conservation. A birdwatchers and hunters paradise. A visitor’s center opened in 2008 and is now used as a classroom space and visitor information center.
Over a hundred years ago the Hackberry area was considered a nuisance by local farmers. They claimed a heavy fog would be enough to swallow a tractor in that area, and the birds were so thick that the sky often looked cloudy.
In the early 1900’s a massive ditch was constructed—some four miles long, 20 feet deep and 40 feet wide—by locals using hand shovels, mule teams and later a steam shovel. The next two generations of area residents maintained the area as farmland instead of the wetland it had been for so many years prior. They had some success in the fertile soil, but the area remained flood-prone so farming was difficult.
In 1993 the Wildlife Department purchased the land and began restoration efforts. In 1995 the department formed what is now known as Hackberry Flat WMA. The goal is refuge and feeding ground for wildlife and recreation for Oklahomans. Lots of hard work and 4 years later the project was dedicated with the following figures.
35 miles of dikes and canals
99 water control structures
35 wetland units
17-mile pipeline with the capacity to deliver water from Tom Steed ReservoirThe pipeline was designed to help water supply in critically dry years such as this one.
Around 2005, a large group of Frederick citizens gathered at the flats for a ground breaking ceremony to begin work on an educational center.The center opened in fall of 2008. A beautifully and carefully designed building arose from the prairie and is now home to several biologists, classroom field trips and a plethora of educational activities.
The outside architecture is beautiful, and the inside is even better. Stuffed fish, birds, mountain lions and whatever else you could think of line the walls with adventure and excitement. It has been said that the spirit of the Hackberry Flat Center is the hands-on version of the Crawford Collection, (located inside Frederick.) Frederick is fortunate to have both. We really are a town full of adventure!
Melynda Hickman, the Wildlife Biologist along with Kelvin Schoonover, Wetlands Biologist and Tammi Schrick, Classroom Coordinator are all extremely hospitable. They are quick to show off a photo album full of wildlife species that have been found at the wetlands, as well as lots of cool classroom exhibits and a spectacular backyard view of the prairie.This article could go on and on, but we will stop here and encourage you to see it for yourself.
If you would like more information you can go to wildlifedepartment.com or stop by the chamber office and pick up some brochures. Most of the information in this article was taken from a publication by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.
World War II Airborne
Demonstration Team Hangar
Step back in time in Frederick, Oklahoma, where the echoes of World War II still resonate at the preserved Frederick Army Air Field. Today, this historic site serves as the global headquarters for the World War II Airborne Demonstration Team Foundation, a unique organization dedicated to honoring WWII veterans and keeping their legacy alive through breathtaking parachute jumps and living history experiences.
www.wwiiadt.org | 580-335-3344 | Southeast of town
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During World War II Frederick was home to Frederick Army Air Field. The World War II Airborne Demonstration Team Foundation has established its world headquarters at the Frederick airport in a hangar that has been preserved from that time.
The Foundation has many members who live throughout the United States and Europe who visit Frederick often for parachute jumps and training. The team members seek to honor World War II airborne veterans and to preserve World War II artifacts and knowledge for future generations. The group’s hangar will eventually house a WWII living history museum.
Twice a year the hangar hosts “Jump School and Open Hangar Day.” Jump School is a week-long class of jumping, learning and performing. Students from as far as Pennsylvania and the Netherlands come to Frederick to learn how to jump out of a C-47, World War II style. The students stay in the barracks of the hangar, just as soldiers did in early 1940s.
During Jump School it is not uncommon for Frederick citizens to encounter “World War II Soldiers” on the streets of downtown. That is because ADT students, instructors and commanders all wear traditional WWII garb. This, perhaps is what makes Open Hangar Day such a neat experience.
Open Hangar Day is a final testing for the students. In order to fulfill their jump quota, students perform a public jump (or a few) early on a Saturday morning deemed, “Open Hangar Day.” OHD is a free and open event to anyone who likes adventure, airplanes or history.
These events typically have a wing-pinning ceremony for the students who fulfill the jump requirements, as well as a commemorative ceremony for a WWII hero and occasionally open fly-ins. Visitors enjoy getting up-close and personal with the WWII replica plane, “Boogie Baby.” Between parachute packing and lunch in the Mess Hall, this event is a great demonstration of hands-on living history.
For a tour of the Hangar or more information on Open Hangar Day and Jump School, contact the Team at the number above or stop by the chamber office at 100 S. Main.
Abernathy Boys Statue & Exhibit
www.tillmanokhistory.org | 580-335-5844 | West of Tillman Courthouse
Discover the incredible tale of young Bud and Temple Abernathy, two Frederick brothers who captured the nation's attention with their remarkable 1910 solo horseback journey from Oklahoma to Washington, D.C. A striking life-size statue on the Tillman County Courthouse Square and an upcoming exhibit at the Pioneer Townsite Museum commemorate their courage and adventure, offering a glimpse into a truly inspiring piece of American history.
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Two Frederick boys became national celebrities at age 6 and 10 when they rode alone by horseback from Frederick, OK to Washington, D.C. in 1910. This life-size statue and exhibit honor the boys well by telling their story.
A newly-installed life-size Statue of Bud and Temple Abernathy on the Tillman County Courthouse Square honors two Frederick boys who, in 1910, became national celebrities at age 6 and 10 when they rode alone by horseback from Frederick to Washington, D.C. to visit President Taft, and on to New York City where they greeted former President (and family friend) Theodore Roosevelt on his return from an African safari.
The boys then drove back to Oklahoma in a Brush Automobile. Their stories and adventures are documented in many photographs and old news articles, and will honored in a new exhibit that will be housed in the Pioneer Townsite Museum. The exhibit was part of the 2007 Oklahoma State Centennial Celebration, and includes an original Brush Automobile.
Abernathy Day Celebration annually in June.
This is a fascinating story of courage and adventure!
Pioneer Heritage Townsite Museum
www.tillmanokhistory.org | 580-335-5844 | West of Tillman Courthouse
Journey back to the Roaring Twenties at Frederick's Pioneer Heritage Townsite Center, a captivating outdoor museum where authentic structures like the historic Frisco Depot and the Horse Creek School vividly bring a rural Oklahoma town to life. Explore this unique glimpse into the past and experience the charm of a bygone era, complete with seasonal gardens and exhibits that tell the stories of early community life.
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Designed to represent a rural townsite in the 1920s, this museum includes several authentic buildings, including the 1901 Frisco Depot, the 1902 Horse Creek School, a 1924 farmhouse, and a 1924 church.
In 1977 the Frederick Rotary Club and the Tillman County Historical Society joined forces to save and move the one-room 1902 Horse Creek School from its original site in the northeast part of the county to a new location in Frederick.
In 1996 the museum became affiliated with the Oklahoma Historical Society which coordinated renovations to the 1902 Frisco Depot where President Roosevelt once stood and made a speech for the Abernathy Boy’s father, “Catch ‘em Alive” Jack Abernathy. The Oklahoma Historical Society also reformatted the museum to represent a rural townsite in the 1920s. The name was then formally changed from the “Tillman County Historical Museum” to the “Pioneer Heritage Townsite Center.”
The townsite houses 10+ exhibits of 1920’s rural style living in Oklahoma. The museum’s friendly staff is always available for questions and tours. A seasonal garden is also available for viewing. Seasonal crops include cotton, corn and wheat.
Inside the townsite you will also find the Abernathy Boys Exhibit and Statue. The townsite is home to several annual events in Frederick, such as “Concerts in the Park” in June and “Arts in Action” in September.
The Townsite is open Tuesday-Saturday, 11:30-2:30 or by appointment. For more information visit their website or call the chamber office at 580-335-2126.
The Crawford Collection
facebook.com/CrawfordCollection | 580-335-4398 | 115 N. Main
Embark on a global safari right here in Frederick with the breathtaking Crawford Collection, an extraordinary assembly of approximately 170 trophy mounts from around the world. Get up close to incredible creatures like lions, elephants, and giraffes in this unique exhibit, where the captivating stories behind each animal are shared by Felisha Crawford herself, making for an unforgettable adventure.
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This is the Crawford family’s collection of amazing trophy mount animals that they have assembled from their hunts throughout the world. It includes approximately 170 specimens, including lions, bears, a bull-elephant, rhino, python, giraffe, and many, many more. The animals are not behind glass or ropes, but are positioned so that visitors can move close and walk around them for amazing views.
The number one rule, however, is NO TOUCHING. In order to keep the animals in high-quality condition, the touching has to be off-limits. Although, your eyes should be satisfied enough for all of your senses.
Felisha Crawford leads most tours and tells fascinating stories about the animals. A visit to The Crawford Collection is an amazing and memorable experience.
The collection is open by appointment and/or when there are events going on around town. Of course, private tours are easily accessible and this is a very popular exhibit with school groups and retired communities. If you are interested in viewing the Crawford Collection contact Felisha Crawford at the above number or call the chamber office at 580-335-2126.
The Historic Ramona Theatre
www.ramonatheatre.com | 580-335-5689 | 114 S. 9th
Step into the grandeur of the Ramona Theatre, a beautifully preserved 1929 Spanish Colonial masterpiece once hailed as "The Showcase of the Southwest." Now under the care of the Frederick Arts and Humanities Council, this historic venue comes alive with a vibrant array of concerts and theatrical performances, offering a taste of its original splendor.
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Built in 1929, this historic Spanish Colonial Style theatre was once called “The Showcase of the Southwest.” The Frederick Arts and Humanities Council now owns the building, using it for a variety of different events ranging from concerts to theatrical productions.
The Ramona Theatre built in 1929, is an excellent example of the Spanish Colonial Style that was popular in the Southwest and Florida during the 1920's. The ornamentation of the facade, and the interior of the theatre are typical of the details that were combined from the Mediterranean World to create a building reminiscent of a Spanish back-ground. This style was popular from 1915-1940, with most of the building being built in the 1920's. The architect for the Ramona, George Kadane, maintained his office in the Theatre's second floor.
Throughout the years the Ramona has seen its ups and downs. In the 1980’s the Frederick Arts and Humanities Council partnered with a group of concerned citizens to purchase the building and begin its restoration.
Since then the Ramona has been on a constant incline of restoration. From lights and sound systems to restored original Exit signs, the building is slowly taking back its original shape.
A majority of the Arts Council’s Funds are put into the beautification of this historical, grand gem. For a tour of the Ramona please call the number above or stop by the chamber office.
Hotel Frederick
580-335-2954 | 100 E. Grand
Experience the revitalized elegance of Hotel Frederick, a 1929 landmark whose vibrant lobby and historic Blue Room once hosted the town's most significant events. Now home to modern apartments and bustling businesses, including a charming specialty coffee shop and the Frederick Chamber of Commerce, this beautifully restored building offers a unique blend of history and contemporary life.
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Built in 1929, Hotel Frederick’s lobby and business areas were hubs of activity in Frederick for many decades. Its Blue Room was the site of elaborate dinners and every formal function in the town. Now owned by the Community Action Development Corporation, the hotel serves as apartments for Frederick citizens and houses several businesses at its’ base.
The Hotel Frederick opened on January 1, 1930 and stayed active with community activity up until the late 1960s. By that time the hotel was in decline and the building was closed. It remained closed until the 1990s when the then-deteriorated building was completely restored and put into use by the Community Action Development Corporation. The old hotel became The Grand, retirement apartments, and the business areas surrounding its lobby were again filled with businesses. The magnificent Blue Room is used daily for a senior meals program as well as other community events.
The space that has been used for decades as the hotel coffee shop, is currently looking for a business owner to reopen it to a space where visitors may order coffee, breakfast and lunch. Walking into the restored lobby and coffee shop is a step back in time. The Hotel also houses various other businesses.
The Frederick Carnegie Library
facebook.com/frederickpubliclibrary | 580-335-3601
| 200 E. Grand
Discover the enduring charm and community spirit of the Frederick Carnegie Library, a beautiful 1915 landmark made possible by a generous gift from Andrew Carnegie. Still a vital resource today, this architecturally significant building welcomes visitors with a friendly atmosphere and a wide array of books, while also fostering a love of reading in young minds through its engaging summer reading series.
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Originally a gift from Andrew Carnegie, The Frederick Carnegie Library is a beautiful historic building that still serves as a library to the public. Designed by A.H. Krouse, this building is enjoyed for its architectural appeal and importance to the community. During the summer months the library hosts a reading series for the children of the community, emphasizing on broadening their horizons.
The Frederick Public Library is a Carnegie Library that was established in 1915 with a gift from Andrew Carnegie of $10,000. A.H. Krouse was the architect and the lot was donated by Cameron Lumber Co. While the building was going up, civic organizations busied themselves with a series of book drives and money-raising entertainments to provide books for the new library, as a result of which 2,000 volumes were gathered and prepared for circulation. The plans for the library building were approved in April, 1915 and the library opened in February 1916 and is still active as a library today with all the latest technology. During the summer months the library hosts a reading series for the children of the community, emphasizing on broadening their horizons.
Today you can almost always walk in the front door to find a smiling face, people utilizing the computers and a fabulous selection of books for all ages. The Library is open Monday-Thursday from 10:30am-6pm, Friday 10:30am-4:30pm and Saturday from 9am-12pm.
Jenny Perry, Art Gallery
facebook.com/JennyPerryMosaics | 580-335-5040 | 127 West Grand Ave.
Unleash your inner artist with Frederick's own talented mosaicist, Jenny Perry, whose captivating creations have garnered international acclaim from Chicago to London. Offering monthly weekend workshops at her local studio and gallery, Jenny invites everyone to explore the vibrant world of mosaic art and discover their own creative potential. To experience her stunning work firsthand, simply call ahead to schedule an inspiring studio visit.
Lake Frederick
Park Ranger: Keith Thomas | (580) 335-1553
12 Miles North of Frederick; 5 Miles East of Manitou
Escape to the tranquil shores of Lake Frederick, a serene haven offering a multitude of opportunities to relax and reconnect with nature. Whether you enjoy boating on the calm waters, casting a line for a variety of fish, exploring nearby hunting grounds, or camping under a starlit sky, Lake Frederick provides the perfect peaceful retreat.
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Lake Frederick is the perfect spot to find a beautiful, peaceful oasis away from all of the stresses and responsibilities of work and life. Here are just a few suggestions of how you can unwind at the lake:
*Boating-With 1 boat dock and 2 boat ramps, Lake Frederick makes it very simple to get your boat in and out of the water. The docks are also handicap accessible, ensuring everyone the opportunity to have a fun experience. Boating is $5.00 per day / $25.00 per year.
*Fishing-Lake Frederick is full of an assortment of fish. Take a load off your feet as you catch Walleye, Catfish, Bass, Crappie, and Perch. Fishing is $1.00 per day / $20.00 per year.
*Hunting-Because of its remoteness to the city, Lake Frederick is a perfect place to hunt duck, quail, dove, wild hogs, deer, and other critters. $10.00/day or $100.00/year with license. Wild hog traps are $20.00 a year/per trap. Licenses available at 183 Flat Country Store in Frederick or at www.wildlifedepartment.com.
*Camping-Not only does Lake Frederick have the most beautiful stars in the southwest, but it is also a very safe camping area as well. The campgrounds include a Lake Ranger, Campsite Host, and Storm Shelter to ensure everyone’s safety! Other amenities include:
-Bathrooms and Showers
-5 Picnic Pavilions ($30.00/day)
-Playground Area
-Swimming Area with Beach
-Volleyball and Basketball Courts
Specific camping costs are as follows:
-Water and Electric- $22.00/day
-Senior (over 65 years of age) or Disabled Citizen- $20.00/day
-Electric only site- $20.00/day
-Tent- $10.00/day
Discounts are also offered for special groups, military, or city employees.
*Hiking-Lake Frederick has many beautiful trails to be explored. Bike, horse, walking, and ATV/ORV trails leave campers with much variety to choose from.
Trail Riding Rates are as follows:
-Jeeps/full size vehicles - $10.00 a day / $150.00 per year
- ATV/UTV/4-wheeler - $10.00 a day / $100.00 per year
- Motorcycles - $10.00 a day / $100.00 per year
- Bicycles - $1.00 a day / $25.00 per year
- Horeback - $1.00 a day / $25.00 per year
For further information, please click here: Lake Frederick Fees and Regulations 2024
Heritage Barn Quilts
Follow Us On Facebook | Jeannie Scott, 580-305-0829
The Tillman County, Oklahoma Heritage Barn Quilt Trail invites you to explore a unique artistic journey, showcasing Oklahoma's largest barn quilt and a wonderful collection of beautiful barn quilts throughout Frederick, Oklahoma. These vibrant quilts adorn houses, garages, fences, and barns, transforming our community into an open-air art gallery. Discover the rich heritage and creative spirit of Tillman County as you follow this charming and picturesque trail.
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A little Barn Quilt History…
Today’s barn decorating revival became popular with a woman, in 2001, named Donna Sue Groves, from Adams County, Ohio. She wanted to honor her mother by hanging a colorful painted quilt square on her barn. Instead of just one quilt square, she began a community project with twenty quilts squares being displayed along a driving trail to encourage visitors to travel through the countryside. This was the start of our first quilt trail in America. Quilt trails are now being organized all across the country. Barn quilts are displayed around communities and then mapped out for tourist to follow these amazing works of art. They promote tourism and help draw visitors into our rural communities. Traditional stars and various quilt patterns are now being displayed on barns, homes, sheds and sides of buildings. They are also put on posts and displayed in yards and parks.How it began in Frederick….
Jeanie Scott and Annette Rowe began making Barn Quilts as a hobby over the last year. Jeannie heard about them and then visited her sister Lynda Floyd in Bonham Texas and took their quilt tour. Head to http://visitbonham.com/things-to-see/barn-quilt-trail/ to look at what they have. You can find Barn Quilts on both ladies homes as well as Jeannie & Merlin’s building, East 100 block of Grand Ave. The ladies set up a booth at Arts ‘N Action and sold out of their stock at the time to a number of local residents. They can custom make Barn Quilts to fit a particular business logo or home colors. The quilts come in 1’ x 1’ up to 8’ x 8’ and are made of reinforced wood.
From this spark the Tillman County Barn Quilt Tour was born. You can find maps and instructions here.
If you have a Barn Quilt you’d like to register on the tour, please give the Frederick Chamber of Commerce a call at 335-2126.
