Nowata County, Oklahoma

Nowata County, located in northeastern Oklahoma, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Native American tribes, including the Osage and Delaware, inhabited the area prior to European exploration. The first Europeans to arrive in the region were Spanish explorers in the 16th century, followed by French explorers in the 17th century.

In the early 19th century, as part of the removal policy, several Native American tribes were relocated to the region, and a trading post was established along the Verdigris River. In 1854, the area became part of the newly created Kansas Territory, and as white settlement increased, tensions between Native Americans and settlers grew.

After the Civil War, the area experienced an influx of settlers, resulting in the establishment of townships and communities. In 1907, Nowata County was officially formed when Oklahoma became a state. The county was named after a Delaware word meaning "welcome."

Nowata County's economy was heavily reliant on agriculture, particularly oil, gas, and farming. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought prosperity to the area, leading to a boom in population and economic growth. Agriculture also played a significant role, with fertile land and a favorable climate supporting the growth of crops such as corn, wheat, and cotton.

Over the years, Nowata County has faced various challenges, including economic downturns and natural disasters. However, the county has also witnessed progress and development, with improvements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Today, Nowata County continues to embrace its history while looking towards a future of growth and opportunity.
Brief timeline of the history of Nowata County, Oklahoma:

  • 1907 - Nowata County is created as part of the new state of Oklahoma.
  • 1908 - The town of Nowata is established as the county seat.
  • 1911 - Nowata County experiences an oil boom, which leads to rapid development and population growth.
  • 1920s - The oil industry continues to thrive, bringing wealth and prosperity to the county.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression hits Nowata County hard, causing economic hardships for the community.
  • 1941-1945 - Nowata County contributes to the war effort during World War II, with many residents serving in the military.
  • 1950s-1960s - The county's economy starts to recover with the reemergence of the oil industry.
  • 1970s - Nowata County experiences a decline in population and economic activity due to a decrease in oil production.
  • 1980s-1990s - The county focuses on diversifying its economy, including investment in agriculture and manufacturing industries.
  • 2000s - Nowata County continues to face challenges in maintaining economic stability, but efforts are made to promote tourism and attract new businesses.

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