Checotah Oklahoma

Slave Narrative of Nellie Johnson

Nellie Johnson recounts her memories of slavery under Chief Rolley McIntosh in Oklahoma. She describes her childhood, the living conditions, and the relative leniency of her master, who treated the enslaved as hired hands. Johnson details family dynamics and the community structure, emphasizing the autonomy they had in their daily lives. As the Civil War approached, she notes the lack of direct conflict in her area and the eventual declaration of freedom. Following emancipation, she built her own life, marrying and raising a family.

Biography of Charles R. Freeman

Charles R. Freeman, born on November 8, 1875, in Clay County, Mississippi, has been a prominent attorney in Checotah since 1902. He graduated from the Iuka Normal Institute and the University of Mississippi, earning his LL.B. in 1901. After practicing briefly in Starkville, he established a successful law practice in Checotah. Beyond law, Freeman is involved in banking and agriculture, owning extensive farmland. Married to Eunie V. McCafferty, he is active in community services and supports the Democratic Party, exemplifying strong citizenship in his locale.

Biography of Claude A. Niles

Claude A. Niles, born on November 5, 1882, in Missouri, is a distinguished attorney in Checotah and a senior partner at Niles Staley. He graduated from the State University after attending local schools and began law practice in 1906. Niles served as the city attorney and assistant county attorney while contributing to community development. Married to Elva Barton, he has two daughters. A Presbyterian and a Democrat, he is also active in the Masonic Lodge and local bar associations, emphasizing his commitment to law and civic engagement.

Biography of John T. Cooper

John T. Cooper, born on August 7, 1881, in Scottsboro, Alabama, moved to Indian Territory in 1894. He pursued education, graduating from Harrell Institute and engaging in teaching before studying law, gaining admission to the bar in 1915. A prominent attorney in Checotah, Cooper also contributed to the Premier Oil & Gas Company and was involved in organized labor movements, initially supporting the Socialist Party before transitioning to the Democratic Party. He is married to Laura G. Robinson and they have five children.

Biography of Floyd E. Staley

Floyd E. Staley, born on October 17, 1895, in Ottawa, Kansas, is a notable young attorney in Oklahoma, currently a partner at the law firm Miles Staley in Checotah. He is the son of William and Grace Staley, who moved to Oklahoma in 1909. Floyd pursued his education at the State University at Norman, graduating with a B.A. and LL.B. in 1921. A member of the Republican party and active in his community, he is also involved with various legal and fraternal organizations.

Biography of Andrew J. Snelson, M. D.

Dr. Andrew J. Snelson, born on January 1, 1862, in Johnson County, Arkansas, has practiced medicine and surgery in northeastern Oklahoma for over two decades. Establishing his office in Checotah in 1908, he became a prominent figure in the region. Initially a teacher for nineteen years, he transitioned to medicine by studying at the University of Arkansas. Active in local governance, he served as Oktaha’s first mayor and a state legislator. A member of several fraternal organizations, Dr. Snelson is recognized for his medical skills and dedication to community service.

Biography of Joseph G. Schofield

Joseph G. Schofield, born on September 22, 1847, in Lowell, Ohio, is a prominent attorney in Checotah, with roots tracing back to Dutch and English ancestors. Educated at Ohio Wesleyan University, he initially pursued a career in education before studying law and practicing successfully in Kansas. In 1903, he relocated to Checotah, serving as a U.S. commissioner of courts until statehood. A Republican and active Mason, Schofield is recognized for his contributions to the community and his family, including two children who became educators.

Biography of Hon. William M. Duffy

Hon. William M. Duffy, born on August 21, 1866, in Callaway County, Missouri, is a prominent attorney and current justice of the peace in Checotah. The son of Irish immigrant Mathew Duffy, he was educated locally and attended Westminster College. Duffy taught school in Kansas and served as County Clerk before studying law, being admitted to the bar in 1896. He has since built a successful practice and engaged actively in public service, including roles on the town council and in the state legislature. He is married to Emma F. Fisher and has two children.

Biography of James M. Wood

James M. Wood, a prominent figure in McIntosh County, has served as the Mayor of Checotah since 1921. Born on December 13, 1861, in Crawford County, Arkansas, he grew up in Van Buren and began his career as a store clerk before becoming a traveling salesman. Wood held various public offices, including County Treasurer and police judge, and built a successful business in Checotah. He has numerous investments in real estate and is actively involved in multiple fraternal organizations, maintaining a strong commitment to the Democratic Party and community welfare.

Bowman, Gene C. “Smokey” – Obituary

Gene C. “Smokey” Bowman, aged 76, passed away on March 9, 2005, in Baker City after a year-long struggle with cancer, surrounded by family. Born on September 10, 1928, in Oklahoma, he served in the Navy before becoming a rancher and rodeo competitor. He married twice, raising three children with his first wife and later marrying Shelley Hack. A multifaceted individual, he operated bars and restaurants, owned an airplane, and engaged in various trades. He is survived by his wife, children, sisters, and numerous grandchildren.