Fort Washita – Haunted History, Gold Rush Legends & Ghostly Encounters

Located just 12 miles northwest of Durant on SH 199, Fort Washita sits on high ground overlooking the rolling prairie near the confluence of the Washita and Red Rivers. Today, this National Historic Landmark is managed by the Chickasaw Nation and recognized as one of the most actively haunted pre-Civil War military outposts in the Southwest.

In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we dive deep into the rich history and supernatural folklore surrounding this historic site:

• Deep Historical Roots (1840s–1860s): Established in 1842 by General (and future U.S. President) Zachary Taylor to protect the Choctaw and Chickasaw Nations following their removal along the Trail of Tears. Situated along the famous Texas Road and near the Butterfield Overland Stage route, the fort served as a major staging point during the 1849 California Gold Rush and trained famous officers like George McClellan, Braxton Bragg, and Randolph B. Marcy before being occupied and ultimately burned down by Confederate forces.

• Hauntings & Urban Legends: Explore the legendary haunting of "Aunt Jane," the headless spectral resident searching for her lost gold, the eerie tale of Charles Colbert's 32 vanishing dogs, and modern reports from visitors and rangers experiencing shadow figures, disembodied voices, and overwhelming dread near the hospital grounds and Confederate cemetery.

• Visiting Today: Learn about what you can experience on-site, including limestone barracks ruins, restored structures, the historic cemetery (burial site of Brig. Gen. Douglas Cooper), Civil War reenactments, the annual Fur Trade Era Rendezvous, and seasonal events.

Visiting Info:

• Hours: Open Tuesday – Saturday, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed Sunday & Monday)

• Group tours available by advance booking.

Also discussed: Think Ability Inc., KFOR, USA Today & Paycom Center

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