Zoo in Durant, Oklahoma

Fort Washita Historic Site, located in Durant, Oklahoma, is a museum, park, and tourist attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into the past. Built in 1842 as the southwestern-most military post of the United States, Fort Washita played a crucial role in maintaining peace for the Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations. The fort faced numerous threats from outside forces, including attacks by Republic of Texas militia, raids by Plains tribes, and disputes over hunting grounds. After operating as a United States military post until the Civil War, Fort Washita was occupied by Confederate forces and nearly destroyed. Following the war, the fort was granted to the Chickasaw Nation and later acquired by the Oklahoma Historical Society, which restored it as a historic site and museum. In 2016, the Chickasaw Nation partnered with OHS to assume responsibility and management of the site, eventually purchasing it in 2017.