Latimer County, Oklahoma, boasts a rich tapestry of history that begins long before its official establishment in 1907. The earliest explorers of the region were part of the indigenous cultures that thrived for thousands of years.
The area was known for its complex earthworks during the Mississippian culture, with archaeological excavations at sites like the McCutchan-McLaughlin revealing a deep history of hunter-gatherer societies dating back to 300 BCE. With the arrival of European settlers, the region saw the establishment of the Butterfield Overland Mail route in 1858, which brought increased exposure to the area. The discovery of coal in the 1870s spurred further development, leading to the construction of the Choctaw Coal and Railway in the late 19th century. This period also saw the region as part of the Choctaw Nation, with significant locations such as Gaines Courthouse and Red Oak serving as important centers. The county's namesake, James L. Latimer, was a delegate from Wilburton to the 1906 state Constitutional Convention, reflecting the area's growing political significance. Today, Latimer County continues to honor its diverse heritage, from its prehistoric roots to its role in the growth of Oklahoma.