Grove, OK

County: Delaware

History

Grove, Oklahoma

Grove, Oklahoma is a small city located in Delaware County in the northeastern part of the state. The area where Grove is situated has a long and complex history, dating back centuries before European colonization.

The land where Grove is now located was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Osage, Quapaw, and Cherokee. These tribes had established settlements and utilized the land for hunting, farming, and trade.

During the 1830s, with the implementation of the Indian Removal Act by the United States government, many Native American tribes were forcibly relocated to present-day Oklahoma. The Cherokee, in particular, were moved to the region that would become Grove. This forced relocation, known as the Trail of Tears, resulted in significant hardship and loss of life for the Native American tribes involved.

Grove itself, however, was not established until much later. In the late 19th century, the area where Grove now stands was part of the Cherokee Nation. In 1896, the Kansas City, Fort Scott, and Memphis Railroad reached the area, leading to the establishment of a small settlement around the railroad station. This settlement was initially known as "Shawnee Town" after a nearby creek, but it was later renamed to Grove due to the abundance of groves found in the area.

Grove grew slowly at first, but it began to develop as a commercial and agricultural center for the surrounding region. In 1901, the city was officially incorporated, and it steadily expanded over the years. The establishment of schools, churches, banks, and other amenities helped to attract more residents and businesses to the area.

In the early 20th century, Grove also benefited from the popularity of Grand Lake o' the Cherokees, a large reservoir located nearby. Grand Lake became a hub for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming, attracting visitors from all over Oklahoma and surrounding states. As a result, Grove developed tourism infrastructure, including hotels, resorts, and marinas, to cater to the growing number of tourists.

Today, Grove continues to thrive as a charming small city with a population of around 7,000 residents. It remains a popular tourist destination, particularly during the summer months, thanks to its proximity to Grand Lake and the many outdoor activities available in the area. The city also celebrates its Native American heritage through various events and festivals, and it serves as a gateway to explore the rich history and natural beauty of northeastern Oklahoma.

Attractions

Har-Ber Village Museum

Har-Ber Village Museum

A historic village featuring over 100 buildings and exhibits that showcase life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Grand Lake O' The Cherokees

A popular recreational lake known for its boating, fishing, and water sports activities.

Cherokee Queen Riverboat

A paddlewheel riverboat that offers sightseeing cruises and dinner cruises on Grand Lake.

Lendonwood Gardens

A beautiful botanical garden with over 1,200 different types of plants, including a Japanese garden and a butterfly house.

Patricia Island Golf Club

A scenic golf course with views of the lake and challenging fairways for golf enthusiasts.

Har-Ber Village Mercantile

A shop offering unique gifts, home décor, local crafts, and souvenirs.

Little Blue Whale

A roadside attraction featuring a large blue whale statue that has become a local icon and a popular photo spot.

The Cayuga Mission Church

A historic church built in the late 1800s that is now a museum showcasing the history of the Delaware tribe in the area.

Grove Community Playmakers

A local theater group that stages various productions throughout the year, including plays, musicals, and concerts.

Native American Cultural & Education Authority

A cultural center that offers exhibits, educational programs, and events to promote and preserve Native American heritage in the region.

Climate

Grove, Oklahoma has a humid subtropical climate. Summers in Grove tend to be hot and humid, with average high temperatures in the 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (27-32 degrees Celsius). Heat waves are not uncommon during this time, with temperatures occasionally reaching into the 100s Fahrenheit (38+ degrees Celsius). The humidity can make the heat feel even more intense.

Winters in Grove are generally cold but mild compared to northern parts of the country. Average high temperatures during the winter months range from the 40s to 50s Fahrenheit (4-10 degrees Celsius), with overnight lows dropping into the 20s to 30s Fahrenheit (-1 to -6 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is relatively rare in Grove, but occasional light snow or freezing rain events may occur during the colder months.

Spring and fall seasons in Grove are known for their mild temperatures. Spring brings occasional rainfall and temperatures begin to warm up, with averages ranging from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (15-25 degrees Celsius). Fall sees temperatures gradually cool down, with averages ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (10-25 degrees Celsius). These transitional seasons are generally pleasant with lower humidity levels.

It is worth noting that severe weather, including thunderstorms and tornadoes, can occur in Grove and throughout Oklahoma. The area lies within "Tornado Alley," and storms with high winds, hail, and tornadoes are most common in the spring months. It is important for residents to stay informed and prepared for severe weather events during these times.

Neighborhoods

Grove, OK is a small city located in northeastern Oklahoma. It is known for its scenic beauty, rich history, and recreational activities. While Grove is relatively small, it does have different neighborhoods with unique characteristics. Here are some of the neighborhoods in Grove, OK:

Downtown

The heart of Grove, Downtown is a vibrant and bustling area with a mix of historic buildings, local businesses, restaurants, and shops. It is also home to the Grove Civic Center, which hosts various events and concerts throughout the year.

Honey Creek

Located on the eastern side of Grove, Honey Creek is situated along the banks of Honey Creek and the expansive Grand Lake. It is a residential neighborhood with many lakefront properties, offering beautiful views and access to water activities like boating, fishing, and swimming.

Buffalo Shores

Another waterfront neighborhood, Buffalo Shores is situated on the southwestern side of Grove. It is a popular destination for families and retirees, offering lakefront homes and easy access to boat ramps, marinas, and parks.

Littlegate Addition

Situated to the northwest of downtown, Littlegate Addition is a predominantly residential neighborhood. It offers a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment complexes. It is a peaceful area with tree-lined streets and parks.

Oak Grove

Located to the south of downtown, Oak Grove is a primarily residential neighborhood with a mix of homes and apartments. It offers a suburban atmosphere with several parks and green spaces for outdoor activities.

Southwood Addition

Situated on the southern side of Grove, Southwood Addition is a growing residential area. It offers a mix of newer homes and older properties, providing a variety of options for residents.

These are just a few of the neighborhoods in Grove, OK. Each neighborhood has its own unique charm and offers a range of amenities, making Grove an attractive place to live and visit for outdoor enthusiasts, retirees, and families.

Nearby Cities