DOBSON MUSEUM & HOME IN MIAMI, OKLAHOMA
Dobson Museum & Home was established through vision of Miss Nellie Dobson. Nellie’s family came to Miami, Indian Territory in 1894 and her family made a lasting impact on the establishment and future of Miami. Nellie had a sister, Martha Ellen, that passed away at an early age. Her two brothers, Wayman and Sully, were instrumental in helping the father operate their businesses and financial interests. Wayman served as mayor of Miami for six different terms. The home being built from 1915-16 with the architect, John Jefferson “J.J.” Shoe, who incorporated the ideas of the family to layout the craftsman bungalow style home. All members of Nellie’s family including her parents, Solomon Bedford “S.B.” and Lucinda Rogers “Lucy” (Stinebaugh) Dobson, were active throughout the young community. It only made sense when Nellie neared the end of her life established what would be known in her will as “Dobson Memorial Center”.
The museum was originally started in 1963, by a group of individuals from the recently established Ottawa County Historical Society. Miss Nellie Dobson was one of those members and wanted to preserve history for Ottawa County. The museum started on Main Street above drug store; however, as donations and visitors increased, they outgrew their space and accessibility. Nellie Dobson passed away in 1968 leaving her home as a memorial to her family and a museum to be built on her property to serve as a home for two organizations near and dear to her. She was a founding board member of each group, the Ottawa County Historical Society and Miami Garden Club. The museum was only open for a few afternoons a week in the early years and completely staffed by volunteers.
The museum today is open five days a week and staffed by professional museum staff along with museum volunteers. The foresight of Nellie Dobson has left a legacy to be appreciated and admired by local citizens and visitors of all ages.
The Dobson Museum operated by the Ottawa County Historical Society is open on Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 4pm and Closed Sunday – Monday. The artifacts are owned by the Ottawa County Historical Society and highlight past Ottawa County life, mining, military, Native Americans, famous residents, industry including a permanent B.F. Goodrich exhibit.
The Dobson Home is an extension of the museum and open for tours and rental for events. The Dobson family furniture remains in the house today. The house is listed the National Register of Historic Places.
The gardens at the Dobson Memorial Center surround the home and are continued in the museum courtyard. From spring through fall there is a steady show of color from the many perennials and annuals in bloom. The Miami Garden Club and volunteers from the Ottawa County Historical Society maintain the many beds. Visitors are welcome to stroll through the gardens.
Visit the Dobson Museum & Home
110 A St SW, Miami, OK 74354
Phone: (918) 542-5388
Web: http://www.dobsonmuseum.com/
**** Please note: The Museum at 110 A Street SW is under renovations. Current Museum is located at 23 N. Main at Dobson Museum & Home Annex through December 2025.
