National Register Listings in
Jackson County, Oklahoma

Baker, W. C., House Cross S Ranch Headquarters Downtown Altus Historic District Frazer Cemetery Fullerton Dam Garnett, Elmer and Lela, House Jackson County Courthouse Jackson County Courthouse and Jail (Boundary Increase) Olustee Public Library and Park Perryman Ranch Headquarters Wichita Falls & Northwestern Railroad Passenger Depot
Woody Guthrie, a folk singer and songwriter, was born in Oklahoma and wrote many songs about the struggles of farmers and migrant workers during the Great Depression. His most famous song, "This Land Is Your Land," has become a kind of unofficial anthem of the United States.
Oklahoma random facts
Jackson County is located in the southwestern part of the state of Oklahoma, in the United States. The area that is now Jackson County was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Kiowa, Comanche, and Apache. In the early 19th century, European settlers began to move into the area, and conflicts between settlers and Native Americans were common.

In 1867, the Indian Meridian Line was established, dividing the land into sections and opening it up for settlement. This led to an influx of homesteaders to the area, and the town of Jackson was founded in 1902. The town's name was later changed to Altus, which is still the county seat today.

The discovery of oil and gas in the early 20th century brought economic prosperity to Jackson County. Numerous oil wells were drilled, and the county became an important energy producer. The oil and gas industry played a significant role in the development of the county's economy and attracted new residents.

During World War II, Altus Air Force Base was established in Jackson County. The presence of the military base boosted the local economy and brought new jobs to the area. Today, Altus Air Force Base remains an important part of the county's economy and contributes to its diverse cultural heritage.

Overall, Jackson County has a rich history that includes Native American settlement, waves of European settlement, the development of the oil and gas industry, and the establishment of a military base. These factors have shaped the county into what it is today, a thriving community with a strong economy and diverse population.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Jackson County, Oklahoma.

  • 1870: Jackson County is established as part of the Choctaw Nation in Indian Territory.
  • 1890: The Land Run of 1890 allows non-Indigenous settlers to claim land in the county.
  • 1901: Altus, the county seat, is founded as a townsite.
  • 1907: Oklahoma becomes a state, and Jackson County becomes part of the new state.
  • 1941-1945: During World War II, Altus becomes the site of an army airfield, which later becomes Altus Air Force Base.
  • 1953: Western Oklahoma State College (now known as Western Oklahoma State College) is established in Altus.
  • 1960s: The county experiences an agricultural boom with the introduction of irrigation systems and the growth of cotton farming.
  • 1983: The Jackson County Courthouse, a historic landmark, is added to the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 1996: A tornado hits Altus, causing significant damage to the city.