National Register Listing

Stigler School Gymnasium-Auditorium

Fourth and E Sts., Stigler, OK
Local significance of the building:
Economics; Architecture; Social History

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1988.

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.

education
Oklahoma is home to the largest ancient meteorite impact site in the United States. The impact crater, which is located in northeastern Oklahoma, is estimated to be about 300 million years old.
Oklahoma random facts
Haskell County, located in southeastern Oklahoma, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally home to various Native American tribes, including the Choctaw and Creek nations, who lived off the land and cultivated crops along the fertile river valleys. In the 1830s, as part of the Indian Removal Act, these tribes were forced to cede their lands and relocate to present-day Oklahoma, paving the way for the arrival of European settlers.

The county was officially established in 1907, following Oklahoma's statehood. The town of Stigler was chosen as the county seat, named after the popular Choctaw Nation leader Henry Clay Stigler. Agriculture played a vital role in the county's early economy, with crops like cotton, corn, and soybeans dominating the landscape. The arrival of the railroad in the early 20th century further bolstered Haskell County's economy, allowing for the transportation of goods and increased trade.

In the mid-20th century, Haskell County experienced significant changes with the construction of the Eufaula Dam and Lake. Completed in 1964, the dam provided hydroelectric power and recreation opportunities for the region, attracting tourists and boosting the local economy. Today, Eufaula Lake remains a popular destination for fishing, boating, and water sports.

In recent times, Haskell County has faced the challenges of economic diversification and population decline. Efforts have been made to attract new industries and businesses, while preserving the county's rich history and natural beauty. Despite these challenges, Haskell County continues to be a close-knit community with a proud heritage, offering a glimpse into Oklahoma's past while embracing the opportunities of the future.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Haskell County, Oklahoma.

  • 1907: Haskell County is established as a county in the state of Oklahoma.
  • Early 1900s: The area is settled by European immigrants, predominantly of Irish descent.
  • 1910s: Agriculture becomes a major economic industry in Haskell County, with cotton being a prominent crop.
  • 1920s: Oil is discovered in Haskell County, leading to a boom in the local economy.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression impacts Haskell County, causing economic hardship for many residents.
  • 1940s: Haskell County experiences growth and development due to the establishment of military training camps during World War II.
  • 1950s-1960s: The county sees improvements in infrastructure, including the construction of roads and bridges.
  • 1980s: The oil industry experiences a downturn, resulting in economic challenges for Haskell County.
  • 1990s-present: Efforts are made to diversify the local economy, with an emphasis on tourism and small businesses.