Red Cross Canteen
Rock Island Depot, El Reno, OKWhen the United States went to war in 1917 the nation became a beehive of military activity. To the railroads went the task of transporting, not only needed military supplies, but also the hundreds of thousands of young men who were to use them. As the division point of a major railroad, at a major junction of its east-west and north-south lines, El Reno soon became one of the Southwest's busiest rail centers, Here engines and crews were changed, aged and over-taxed equipment repaired to keep the supply of men and materials rolling.
Delays, of course, were inevitable. The community soon became aware of the need for a place where en route military personnel could find something to eat, drink, and relax. And the good ladies of the TBA - a local bridge club - promptly decided to provide just such a rest-stop facility. Thus was born, in early 1918, the idea for what has since become known as the Red Cross Canteen, A local Red Cross chapter had been organized here the previous year. The TBA suggestion envisioned erection of a building to provide headquarters for assembling supplies needed by the some 1,000 servicemen aboard each of the many troop trains passing through El Reno.
In true frontier fashion, the Rock Island donated old telegraph poles and carmen from the line's El Reno shops gave of their time and skills to erect the log-cabin style building. It was dedicated August 1, 1918, with members of the local Woodmen of the World (WOW) Lodge in charge. Fittingly enough, Congressman Scott Ferris was the principal speaker and a resident priest, Father R, Stephens, gave a brief address, Constance Cromer and Malcolm E. Phelps, prominent El Reno doctor, participated in flag raising ceremonies. And volunteer Red Cross workers were soon dispensing to passing troops cookies, sandwiches, cigarettes, candy, snuff, harmonicas, writing paper, and other items ... including turpentine!
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1975.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
In the early years, Canadian County relied heavily on agriculture for its economy. Wheat, cotton, and cattle were the primary crops, and the county became known for its fertile soil and abundant water supply. With the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s, the county experienced more rapid growth and development.
During World War II, Canadian County played a significant role in supporting the war effort. El Reno was home to the Fort Reno Internment Camp, which held German prisoners of war. The county also had several military installations, such as the El Reno Naval Air Station and the Reno Army Airfield, where bomber crews were trained.
In recent years, Canadian County has experienced rapid population growth and suburbanization. The county has attracted numerous residents who work in the nearby Oklahoma City metropolitan area, seeking a more rural and peaceful lifestyle. While agriculture continues to be an important industry in the county, Canadian County has also seen the expansion of industries such as manufacturing, energy, and retail.
Overall, Canadian County has a rich history rooted in agriculture, and has adapted to changing times to become a vibrant community with a diverse economy.
Canadian County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Canadian County, Oklahoma.
- 1890 - Canadian County is founded as a part of Oklahoma Territory.
- 1892 - The county seat is established in El Reno.
- 1902 - The Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad is built through the county.
- 1909 - The University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma is established in Chickasha.
- 1931 - The Great Depression reaches its peak, causing economic hardship in the county.
- 1959 - The Canadian River is dammed to create Lake Overholser.
- 1986 - The Canadian County Historical Museum is opened in El Reno.
- 1999 - A tornado outbreak affects Canadian County, causing significant damage.
- 2005 - Construction of the Canadian Valley Technology Center is completed.