Loading...
The Oklahoma City bombing in 1995 was the deadliest act of domestic terrorism in U.S. history. The bombing, which was carried out by Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols, killed 168 people and injured hundreds more.
About Jefferson County
Jefferson County Timeline
Jefferson County, Oklahoma, named after President Thomas Jefferson, has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. The area was initially inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Kiowa, Comanche, and Apache. With the arrival of European settlers in the mid-1800s, conflicts between the Native Americans and the newcomers began to escalate.
In 1885, the famous Land Run took place, which opened up vast areas of land for settlement in Oklahoma. Many settlers rushed to claim their free land in what is now Jefferson County, sparking a period of rapid growth and development. Agriculture soon became the primary industry in the area, with cotton, corn, and wheat being the main crops.
The growth continued with the establishment of new towns and infrastructure. Waurika, the county seat, was incorporated in 1898 and became an important hub for trade and commerce. The arrival of the railroad in the early 20th century further stimulated the county's economy, allowing for easier transportation of goods and people.
Despite experiencing economic challenges during the Great Depression, Jefferson County gradually recovered and has continued to thrive. The discovery of oil and gas reserves in the early 20th century provided another boost to the local economy. Today, the county is known for its agricultural production, oil and gas industry, and the Waurika Lake, which attracts tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Jefferson County's history reflects the resilience and adaptability of its residents in the face of challenges and their commitment to building a prosperous community.
In 1885, the famous Land Run took place, which opened up vast areas of land for settlement in Oklahoma. Many settlers rushed to claim their free land in what is now Jefferson County, sparking a period of rapid growth and development. Agriculture soon became the primary industry in the area, with cotton, corn, and wheat being the main crops.
The growth continued with the establishment of new towns and infrastructure. Waurika, the county seat, was incorporated in 1898 and became an important hub for trade and commerce. The arrival of the railroad in the early 20th century further stimulated the county's economy, allowing for easier transportation of goods and people.
Despite experiencing economic challenges during the Great Depression, Jefferson County gradually recovered and has continued to thrive. The discovery of oil and gas reserves in the early 20th century provided another boost to the local economy. Today, the county is known for its agricultural production, oil and gas industry, and the Waurika Lake, which attracts tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Jefferson County's history reflects the resilience and adaptability of its residents in the face of challenges and their commitment to building a prosperous community.
Jefferson County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Jefferson County, Oklahoma.
- 1887 - Jefferson County is founded as part of the Oklahoma Territory.
- 1894 - The town of Waurika is established as the county seat.
- Early 1900s - Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, becomes the main industry in the county.
- 1921 - The discovery and subsequent boom of oil in the area brings increased prosperity to Jefferson County.
- 1930s - The Great Depression and the Dust Bowl cause significant economic and agricultural challenges for the county.
- Mid-1940s - The county experiences a period of growth and development following the end of World War II.
- 1980s - Declining oil prices negatively impact the county's economy.
- 1993 - The Jefferson County Historical Society is established to preserve and promote the county's history.
- 2010s - Efforts to diversify the economy lead to growth in tourism, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors.