Site of Babbs Switch Tragic School Fire
Historical marker location:
Babbs, Oklahoma
( Marker is on U.S. 183 north of County Road E1420, on the right when traveling north.)
Marker installed: 1966
Babbs Memorial School. 1925
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The state capital of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, was not the original capital. Guthrie served as the territorial capital from 1890 until statehood in 1907, when the capital was moved to Oklahoma City.
About Kiowa County
Kiowa County Timeline
Kiowa County, located in the southwestern part of the state of Oklahoma, has a rich and diverse history. The area that would later become Kiowa County was home to various Native American tribes, including the Kiowa, Comanche, and Apache peoples. These tribes roamed the plains and utilized the land for hunting and gathering for centuries.
In the 19th century, European settlers began to enter the area in search of land and resources. In 1869, Fort Sill was established just north of present-day Kiowa County, contributing to an increase in settlement. The establishment of the fort also brought conflicts between settlers and Native Americans, as tensions rose over land ownership and resources.
In 1901, Kiowa County was officially formed when the Oklahoma Territory was created. The county was named after the Kiowa tribe, acknowledging the significant influence of Native American culture in the region. Around this time, the discovery of oil in nearby areas led to an economic boom, attracting new settlers and further establishing the county's growth.
Throughout the 20th century, Kiowa County experienced both prosperity and challenges. The Great Depression and the Dust Bowl in the 1930s brought hardship to the residents, but with the development of farming and irrigation techniques, the agricultural industry rebounded. Today, Kiowa County continues to be primarily rural, with its economy centered around agriculture, oil and gas production, and tourism, thanks to its natural beauty and historical sites.
In the 19th century, European settlers began to enter the area in search of land and resources. In 1869, Fort Sill was established just north of present-day Kiowa County, contributing to an increase in settlement. The establishment of the fort also brought conflicts between settlers and Native Americans, as tensions rose over land ownership and resources.
In 1901, Kiowa County was officially formed when the Oklahoma Territory was created. The county was named after the Kiowa tribe, acknowledging the significant influence of Native American culture in the region. Around this time, the discovery of oil in nearby areas led to an economic boom, attracting new settlers and further establishing the county's growth.
Throughout the 20th century, Kiowa County experienced both prosperity and challenges. The Great Depression and the Dust Bowl in the 1930s brought hardship to the residents, but with the development of farming and irrigation techniques, the agricultural industry rebounded. Today, Kiowa County continues to be primarily rural, with its economy centered around agriculture, oil and gas production, and tourism, thanks to its natural beauty and historical sites.
Kiowa County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Kiowa County, Oklahoma.
- 1867 - Kiowa County was established as part of the Indian Territory.
- 1889 - The Land Run of 1889 resulted in a significant influx of settlers to the area.
- 1901 - Kiowa County was officially organized and became a county of the Oklahoma Territory.
- 1901-1912 - The county experienced rapid growth in agriculture and the establishment of towns.
- 1915 - The discovery of oil brought significant economic development to the county.
- 1930s - The Great Depression impacted the county's economy, leading to a decline in population.
- 1950s-1960s - The construction of Lake Altus-Lugert brought recreational opportunities and stimulated tourism.
- 2006 - Kiowa County was hit by a devastating tornado, causing significant damage and loss of life.
- Present - Kiowa County remains a rural area with agriculture and oil as important industries.