The Not-So-Secret Holy Land of Lawton: Unveiling the Holy City of the Wichitas
Lawton, Oklahoma, might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of holy cities. But fear not, fellow pilgrims (or just curious road-trippers), because nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge lies a hidden gem: The Holy City of the Wichitas. Buckle up, because we're about to delve into the fascinating (and slightly quirky) world of this unique landmark.
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| What is The Holy City In Lawton Oklahoma |
From Dust Bowl to Promised Land: A Short History of the Holy City
The Holy City's story starts in the 1920s, when Reverend Anthony Mark Wallock, inspired by the Wichita Mountains' resemblance to ancient Israel, dreamt of creating a place to reenact the Easter story. Think "divine intervention" meets "Oklahoma can-do spirit!" Funded by the Works Progress Administration (think New Deal government jobs program), the Holy City rose from the dust bowl in the mid-1930s. Fun Fact: The project even employed local rock, giving the whole place a truly biblical feel.
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Stepping Back in Time: What You'll Find in the Holy City
So, what exactly awaits you in this 66-acre slice of Judea transplanted to Oklahoma? Here's a sneak peek:
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- Full-sized recreations: Wander through meticulously constructed replicas of biblical landmarks, including Pilate's judgment hall, the Garden of Gethsemane, and even Calvary's Mount (minus the actual crucifixion, of course – this is a family-friendly attraction, folks!).
- The Prince of Peace Pageant: The Holy City's crown jewel is its annual Easter pageant, "The Prince of Peace." Running for nearly a century, this theatrical extravaganza brings the story of Easter to life under the stars. Pro tip: Pack some bug spray – it's an outdoor production, and Oklahoma evenings can get a little buggy.
- Spiritual Significance (or lack thereof): While the Holy City holds religious significance for some, it's also a fascinating historical and cultural attraction. Think of it as a place to learn a bit about the Bible, a bit about Oklahoma history, and a whole lot about local passion for a good Easter show.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for the Holy City Curious:
How to get to the Holy City? The Holy City is located about 22 miles northwest of Lawton, Oklahoma. Just follow the signs for the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge – you can't miss it!
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How much does it cost to visit? Admission to the Holy City is free, though donations are always appreciated. There's a small fee to see the Easter pageant, but hey, it's the longest-running play in Oklahoma – that's gotta be worth a few bucks!
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How long does it take to tour the Holy City? You can explore the grounds in an hour or two, but if you want to delve deeper, check out the visitor center and maybe even catch a pageant.
Is the Holy City open year-round? Yep! While the Easter pageant is the main event, you can visit the Holy City any time of year. Just be aware that some things might be closed during the off-season.
Is the Holy City appropriate for kids? Absolutely! The biblical stories are presented in a respectful way, and the outdoor setting is perfect for little ones to run around (just keep an eye out for those aforementioned Oklahoma bugs!).
So there you have it, folks! The Holy City of the Wichitas: a unique blend of history, religion, and Oklahoma charm. Whether you're a devout Christian, a history buff, or just looking for a quirky roadside attraction, the Holy City is sure to leave you with a smile (and maybe a few interesting stories to tell).
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