Garvin Rock Church
a.k.a. Old Rock Church
Love and Williams Sts., Garvin, OK Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
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.
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.
In the 1830s, the Choctaw were forcibly relocated from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States to what is now McCurtain County. This event, known as the Trail of Tears, had a profound impact on the Native American population in the area. Over time, the Choctaw adapted to their new surroundings and established a strong presence in the region.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the discovery of valuable resources such as timber and coal played a significant role in the development of McCurtain County. The county became known for its timber industry, with numerous sawmills and logging camps springing up to meet the demand for lumber. Coal mining also became an important industry in the region, attracting workers and boosting the local economy.
In addition to its industrial growth, McCurtain County is also known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The county is home to the Ouachita National Forest, which covers a significant portion of the area. This forest provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing, making McCurtain County a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
Today, McCurtain County continues to be a vibrant community with a diverse population that embraces its rich history and natural resources. The county's economy remains varied, with industries such as agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing contributing to its growth and prosperity. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and economic opportunities, McCurtain County remains a unique and fascinating part of Oklahoma's history.
McCurtain County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of McCurtain County, Oklahoma.
- 1907 – McCurtain County is established as part of the new state of Oklahoma.
- 1910 – The county's first courthouse is built in Idabel.
- 1920s – The timber industry becomes a major economic force in McCurtain County.
- 1944 – The U.S. Army establishes the Oklahoma Ordnance Works near Haworth, providing jobs and boosting the local economy during World War II.
- 1960s – The construction of the Broken Bow Reservoir (now known as Broken Bow Lake) leads to increased tourism and outdoor recreation opportunities.
- 1967 – The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma headquarters is established in Durant, becoming a prominent presence in McCurtain County.
- 1980s – The timber industry declines, causing economic challenges for the county.
- 1990s – Efforts are made to diversify the economy, including the establishment of a poultry industry and the promotion of tourism.
- 2009 – The Hochatown State Park is opened, offering recreational activities and becoming a popular tourist destination.
- 2015 – McCurtain County celebrates its centennial anniversary.