National Register Listing

White House of the Chickasaws

a.k.a. Gov. Douglas H. Johnston House

NW of Emet, Emet, OK
Local significance of the building:
Native American; Politics/government; Social History

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1971.

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.

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Johnston County, Oklahoma has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The area that is now known as Johnston County was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Chickasaw and Choctaw nations. These tribes lived off the land, utilizing the region's abundant natural resources for sustenance and trade.

In the 19th century, European settlers began to move into the area, as part of the wider westward expansion in the United States. In 1844, Johnston County was officially established as a part of the Chickasaw Nation. During this time, the region became a major hub for cattle ranching and farming, with many settlers taking advantage of the fertile soil and grasslands.

However, the history of Johnston County is not without its share of turmoil. In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil in the region led to a boom in the local economy. This attracted numerous oil companies and workers to the area, resulting in a period of rapid growth and development. However, the oil industry also brought with it environmental concerns and social disruption, as the region struggled to balance economic progress with the needs of its communities.

Today, Johnston County remains a vibrant and thriving community that honors its rich past while embracing the future. The area's strong agricultural heritage is still evident, with farming and ranching playing a significant role in the local economy. The county is also home to a number of historical sites and landmarks, which serve as a testament to its enduring history. From its Native American heritage to its role in the oil industry, Johnston County's history is a tapestry of diverse cultures, industries, and experiences that continues to shape the community today.

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

  • 1837: Johnston County territory was assigned to the Chickasaw Nation
  • 1846: The Chickasaw Nation signed a treaty ceding their lands to the United States
  • 1854: The area became part of the Indian Territory
  • 1890: The county was established and named after Douglas H. Johnston, a Governor of the Chickasaw Nation
  • 1907: Oklahoma became a state, and Johnston County was incorporated as part of it
  • 1933: The Johnston County courthouse, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was built
  • 1964: The Tishomingo National Fish Hatchery was established to provide fish for stocking lakes and streams
  • 1990: Johnston County celebrated its centennial year
  • 2010: The county's population was recorded as 10,957