Research Ottawa County History
Access curated archives, genealogy records, and regional collections at the Dobson Museum.
The Dobson Museum & Home, operated by the Ottawa County Historical Society in Miami, Oklahoma, houses one of northeast Oklahoma's most comprehensive regional history collections — spanning Native American resettlement, lead and zinc mining heritage, Route 66 corridor history, military service records, agricultural life, and the stories of more than a dozen communities across Ottawa County.
Whether you're tracing family roots, researching a school project, preparing a presentation on Ottawa County history, or simply curious about the world that shaped this corner of Oklahoma, you'll find knowledgeable staff, a growing collection of archival materials, and resources you won't find anywhere else in the region.
Researchers may access the museum's reference resources, archival materials, and staff expertise during regular hours.
Submit your research appointment request via this form or click here to contact the museum directly.
Come In During Regular Hours
The most direct path to our collection is through our front door. Staff are available Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., to help orient you to relevant materials, point you toward the right exhibit areas, and answer questions from the depth of long familiarity with what we hold. No appointment required for a general visit.
If you'd like dedicated research time or assistance with a specific project, submit your research appointment request via this form or 918-542-5388.
Contact Us Before Your Visit
If you're traveling from outside the Miami area, or if you have a specific research question, reach out before you come. Our staff can often tell you in advance whether we have materials relevant to your inquiry — saving you time and helping us prepare to serve you better when you arrive.
The Hub Interactive
Our information hub — located in the Introduction gallery — is designed to help visitors and researchers discover the connected web of people, places, and events across Ottawa County. It's a good first stop for anyone beginning a research visit, and a useful orientation tool for educators preparing students to explore the collection.
The Traveling Trunk Program
If you're a classroom educator looking to bring Ottawa County history to your students, our Traveling Trunk program brings curated artifact reproductions and primary source materials directly to schools across the region. It's one of the most effective research tools we offer — and it travels to you. Learn more about the Traveling Trunk on our Education page.
Not sure where to start? 918-542-5388 Our staff have helped people find things they weren't sure existed — and that's one of the best parts of what we do.
How to Use the Dobson Museum Research Resources
You don't need to be an academic to use what we have here. Our staff and volunteers include people who have spent decades with this collection — they know where things are, what's been catalogued, and when to say "there might be more." Here's how to get started.
Research Services & Fees
Services
- In-Person Research
- Staff-Assisted Research
- Reference Assistance
Process
- Submit request
- Staff review
- Schedule
- Conduct research
- Receive results
Timelines
- Preparation: 7-10 days
- Research turnaround: 4-8 weeks
Fees
- Library access: Free with permission
- Copies: $0.25–$2.00
- Staff research for members: $10/hr
- Staff research for non-members: $15/hr