National Register Listing

Harris Palace Store

a.k.a. River Bank General Store

214 E. Ripley St., Byars, OK
Local significance of the building:
Commerce

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2019.

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.

commerce
The name "Oklahoma" comes from the Choctaw words "okla" and "humma", which together mean "red people." The Choctaw Nation had a significant presence in the area that is now Oklahoma before it became a state.
Oklahoma random facts
McClain County, Oklahoma, was named after a prominent lawyer and politician, Charles M. McClain. The county was officially established on July 16, 1907, as one of the original 77 counties of the state. Prior to this, the area was home to Native American tribes, with the Chickasaw Nation having a strong presence in the region since the 1830s.

In the late 1800s, with the opening of land for settlement, McClain County saw an influx of pioneers and settlers. It quickly became an agricultural hub, with farming and ranching becoming the primary occupations of its residents. The county's fertile soil and favorable climate were ideal for growing crops such as cotton, wheat, corn, and peanuts.

The early years of the county saw the establishment of several towns, including Purcell, which became the county seat. The presence of the St. Louis and San Francisco Railway in Purcell further contributed to its growth and development as a trading center. Other towns, such as Newcastle, were also formed during this time.

Throughout the 20th century, McClain County experienced significant events and milestones. In the 1930s, the Great Depression hit the area hard, affecting the local economy and forcing many to seek employment elsewhere. However, the county rebounded in the post-World War II era, with the expansion of industries and the growth of the oil and gas industry in the region.

Today, McClain County continues to be a vibrant and thriving community, marked by its rich agricultural heritage and economic diversification. It remains an important hub for farming, ranching, and manufacturing, while also embracing modern industries such as technology and tourism. The county's historical landmarks, natural beauty, and friendly communities make it an attractive place to live and visit.

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

  • 1907: McClain County is established as a county in the state of Oklahoma.
  • Early 1900s: The county is primarily used for agriculture, with farming and ranching being the main industries.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression hits McClain County, causing significant economic hardships for residents.
  • 1960s: Interstate 35 is constructed, running through McClain County and improving transportation and connectivity.
  • 1990s: The county experiences population growth and development, with increased urbanization and commercial activity.
  • 2007: McClain County celebrates its centennial anniversary.