Once part of the Choctaw Nation, Indian Territory, LeFlore County is diverse in its topography. With rugged hills, narrow valleys and productive farmland, there is a gentle blending of modern days and old ways. Many of the towns were established as a result of railroad expansion.
Within its borders there are two hospitals, seven libraries, a two-year college, three vocational schools, five newspapers, a veteran's center, and numerous clinics. Manufacturing produces such items as refrigerator parts, instrument panels, crackers, and cattle feed. Carl Albert State College offers courses to more than 2,000 full- and part-time students annually.
Poteau, the county seat, was home to late Senator Robert S. Kerr. Tourism is an important aspect of the LeFlore County economy. The Heavener Runestone and Spiro Mounds are well-known historic sites, as are stops on the old Butterfield Trail. Hailed as the first transcontinental link between East and West, several stops are still found in the northern part of the county. The Ouachita National Forest, including the Talimena Scenic Drive, dominates the southern half of the county. Annual events include the Cavanal Fall Festival and Auto Show in October near Poteau. For more information, call the county clerk's office at 918/647-5738. County narrative provided courtesy of the Oklahoma Department of Libraries from the 2002-2004 Oklahoma Almanac.
| Population Totals | ||
| 2006 Census | 2000 Census | |
| LeFlore | 49,309 | 48,109 |
| Median Age: | 36.6 | 36.1 |
| Median Household Income: | $34,621 | $27,278 |
Colleges and Universities
Carl Albert State College
County Government
County Seat: Poteau
Court Clerk: Melba Hall, D, Poteau
Clerk: Kelli Ford, D, Poteau
Sheriff: Bruce Curnutt, D, Wister
Treasurer: Joe Wiles, D, Poteau
Assessor: Tim Trent, D, Howe
Election Board Secretary: Phillip Zearley, D, Poteau
Commissioners:
District 1 – Carroll Rogers, D, Spiro
District 2 – Lance Smith, D, Monroe
District 3 – Freddie Cox, D, Heavener
