of Oklahoma became the official owner/ caretaker of the historic cabin and gravesite location of renowned Osage author/ historian John Joseph Mathews. The Conservancy hopes to eventually restore the rustic cabin. For the time being, periodic public tours are offered to the historic site — which Mathews occupied while writing some of his works. “We are honored his family entrusted this historic site — and their heritage — to us,” Tallgrass official Harvey Payne said. The Nature Conservancy is a global, non-profit conservation organization that works to protect ecologically important lands and waters for nature and people. Its more than one million members have effectively conserved over 15 million acres in the United States, and an additional 102 million acres worldwide. Since 1986, the Conservancy has successfully protected
more than 100,000 acres of Oklahoma’s magnificent landscapes and unique biodiversity.
Bison facts Though “buffalo” is commonly used, “bison” is the correct term for the mammals on the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve. According to scientists, true buffalo are confined to Africa and Southeast Asia. Before the settlements of modern civilization, around 30 million bison roamed across North America. By 1890, fewer than 600 plains bison were left alive. Bison are the largest native animals on the North American continent. Full-grown bison bulls stand about 6.5 feet at the shoulder and can weigh up to 2,000 pounds. Adult bison consume more than 30
pounds of grass (air-dry weight) in a day. Bison can jump 6 feet vertically. Because they reportedly can jump more than 7 feet horizontally, “bisonguards” on the Preserve are 14 feet wide. (This is double the standard width of a cattleguard.) Bison can run at speeds up to 35 miles per hour. Bison are powerful swimmers, navigating with all but hump, muzzle, and top of the head submerged. Both sexes have horns; the cow’s are smaller. A bull bison can be identified from a cow by wider, thicker horns; a wider skull; and a generally more massive structure. The gestation period for bison is 9.5 months. Bison calves are generally born in the spring and weigh 30-40 pounds. The bison was named the state mammal of Oklahoma by the legislature in 1972.
Enjoy your stay in historical Pawhuska! Historic Whiting Bed & Bath
A place where history surrounds you.
Choose from 12 cozy guest rooms each designed with a unique theme.
Enjoy beautiful historical architecture from the balcony of this 1920s apartment building.
707 Kihekah Ave. - Pawhuska, OK 918-287-4839 Visit us on Facebook www.historicwhitingbedandbath.wordpress.com
The Wah-Zha-Zhi House Immerse yourself in Old World Charm while relaxing in the comfort of modern conveniences.
The Mabelle Bed & Breakfast
Enjoy a warm and relaxing stay in the heart of Osage County.
This historic home, built in 1922, has great charm with beautiful views.
1800 Leahy Ave Pawhuska, OK 918-914-0597
28
Bartlesville Magazine VISITOR’S GUIDE 2017
Comfortable Apartment Style Units for rent by night or week. Several with cooking facilities
414 E. 9th ~ Pawhuska, OK 918-971-8126