Pittsburgh County, OK
Pittsburg County is located in southeast Oklahoma's Kiamichi Country between the shores of Lake Eufaula and the Jack Fork Mountains. Between 1870 and 1920, abundant coal deposits brought an influx of immigrants of many nationalities to work in the deep mines. Italian immigrants comprised the largest percentage to locate in the area. More than 2,000 Italian miners settled in the town of Krebs, Oklahoma's "Little Italy", just east of McAlester, one of the oldest communities in the state. The miners and their families provided a legacy of Italian cuisine and customs that are unique to this area.Krebs is a small, old mining community where the landmark, Lovera's Grocery, sells homemade Italian sausage and cheese, along with bread, pasta, and imported goods. Eateries offer unique Italian specialties, such as, Pete's Place, open since 1925, which serves fresh, family-style Italian cuisine.
Tour the Old Choate House Museum in Indianola, built by a leader of the Choctaw Nation, which is a log cabin with prestatehood furnishings.
Hartshorne is the home of baseball great, Warren Spahn, and the 1916 Saints Cyril and Methodius Orthodox Christian Church, established by Slavic immigrants from western Russia and Europe. History buffs will enjoy the Twin Cities Heritage Association Museum.
McAlester, the county seat of Pittsburg County, is the capitol of southeast Oklahoma serving a rural population base of more than 130,000. McAlester is linked north to south by U.S. Highway 69 and the Indian Nation Turnpike and linked east to west by U.S. 270 and Oklahoma 31. Whether you visit for business or pleasure, McAlester's combination of big-city amenities and small town charm beckons you to visit and stay forever. Experience the warm hospitality of McAlester's people, fine restaurants and choice lodging accommodations.
Explore Pittsburgh County
J. I. Stipe Recreational Center
The J.I. Stipe Recreational Center features separate exercise rooms for men and women each with equipment, showers, lockers and saunas. There is a racquetball court and basketball court as well as swimming pool. The Senior Citizens Center facilities included cafeteria, kitchen, and game room.
McAlester, OK RecreationSaints Cyril & Methodius Orthodox Christian Church
This church was established in America in 1897 by Slavic immigrants from western Russia and eastern Europe. A member of the Diocese of the South Orthodox Church, this Christian Temple erected in 1916, is a beautiful and unique example of Orthodox Church architecture. Tours.
Hartshorne, OK Historic ChurchesPete's Place
Pete's Place has built a national reputation for itself and Krebs, Oklahoma, and has been featured in numerous publications, newspapers, and magazines. It is the gathering place for many notable people and most who visit can't wait to return and tell others about the experience. Pete'
Krebs, OK Historic SitesSt. Joseph's Catholic Church
St. Joseph's Catholic Church was established in 1885. The first wood frame church burned to the ground in 1902. This beautiful brick church was built in 1903
Krebs, OK Historic ChurchesOklahoma Prison Historical Museum
The Oklahoma Prison Historical Museum is the state's only museum detailing the history of Oklahoma's prison system. Exhibits include an actual ball and chain, "Ol Sparky," Oklahoma's electric chair, items owned by prisoners, and numerous historical photos.
McAlester, OK MuseumsPioneer Coal Miner Memorial
Surrounded by gardens, a life-sized bronze statue pays tribute to the thousands of coal miners who worked the mines and lost their lives. The Coal Miners Memorial Plaza documents the impact of the coal mining industry in early Pittsburg County on the Coal miners Wall of Memories with more than 1
McAlester, OK MemorialsPittsburg Co. Genealogical and Historical Society
Along with a display of early coal mining tools, the Historical Society contains a genealogical library and is available for research purposes. Numerous historical exhibits are featured including information and artifacts pertaining to Native American culture. The 1903 building is a
McAlester, OK MuseumsScottish Rite Masonic Temple
The largest Masonic temple in the state houses a library/museum, a costume room, and a 1930 Kimball organ with over 3,100
McAlester, OK Historic BuildingsJ. G. Puterbaugh House and Garrard Ardenium
Once the home of J.G. Puterbaugh, one of the founding fathers of the coal business in McAlester, this home and its grounds may be viewed by appointment only.
McAlester, OK Historic HomesTwin Cities Heritage Association Museum
History buffs will enjoy this museum.
Hartshorne, OK Museums