National Register Listing

Riddle's Station Site

About 3 mi. E of Wilburton, Wilburton, OK
Local significance of the site:
Transportation; Communications

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1972.

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.

Audiobooks about the history of Oklahoma.
In 1988, the residents of Boise City, Oklahoma, were tricked into believing they were under attack by aliens. A local radio station aired a fake news report about a UFO sighting, and many residents saw lights in the sky that they believed were alien spacecraft. The hoax became national news and has since become a part of the town's history.
Oklahoma random facts
Latimer County, located in southeastern Oklahoma, has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Choctaw and Creek Nations, who were forcibly relocated to the region during the Indian Removal Act of the 1830s. These tribes played a significant role in the county's cultural heritage.

In the late 19th century, European settlers began to arrive in the area, attracted by coal deposits and fertile land. The establishment of coal mining communities led to a period of rapid growth and economic prosperity. Towns like Wilburton and Panola emerged as important mining centers, and coal extraction became the backbone of the local economy.

However, with the decline of coal mining in the mid-20th century, Latimer County faced significant challenges. The closure of mines resulted in job losses and population decline, which had a profound impact on the county's economy and social fabric. Efforts were made to diversify the local economy and promote tourism, highlighting the region's natural beauty and historical significance.

Today, Latimer County continues to evolve and adapt. While coal mining remains a part of its past, the county looks towards the future with a focus on sustainable industries, outdoor recreation, and preserving its cultural heritage. With a resilient community and an appreciation for its history, Latimer County strives to create a prosperous and vibrant future for its residents.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Latimer County, Oklahoma.

  • 1907 - Latimer County is established as a county in the state of Oklahoma.
  • Before 1907 - The area was inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Choctaw and Osage.
  • After 1907 - The county's economy was primarily agriculture-based, with farming and ranching being the dominant industries.
  • 1920s - The discovery of coal deposits led to the growth of coal mining in the county.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression had a significant impact on the county's economy, leading to a decline in coal mining.
  • Mid-20th century - The county saw a transition from agriculture and coal mining to a more diversified economy, including manufacturing and services.
  • Present - Latimer County continues to be a rural area with a mix of agricultural, manufacturing, and service industries.