Fort Towson

Historical marker location:
800 Nazih Luhdi Drive, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
( Marker can be reached from Nazih Luhdi Drive west of North Laird Avenue.)

The Red River Journey

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Oklahoma has more man-made lakes than any other state in the country, with over 200 lakes created by dams.
Oklahoma County, located in central Oklahoma, has a rich and vibrant history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddos, Osages, and Wichitas. These tribes relied on the fertile land and abundant wildlife of the area for sustenance and trade.

In the 19th century, Oklahoma County became a part of the Indian Territory, a designated land for Native American tribes that had been forcibly relocated from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States. The arrival of European settlers during the Land Run of 1889 and the subsequent creation of the Oklahoma Territory marked a significant turning point in the history of the county.

During the early 20th century, Oklahoma County experienced rapid growth and development. The discovery of oil in the region during the 1920s led to an economic boom, attracting thousands of people to the area in search of employment opportunities. The county's population increased rapidly, and urbanization became more prevalent. The city of Oklahoma City, which is located within Oklahoma County, emerged as the capital of the state.

Despite the economic prosperity of the 1920s, Oklahoma County, like the rest of the country, was severely affected by the Great Depression. The oil industry suffered, leading to widespread unemployment and financial hardship. However, the county slowly recovered, and in the post-World War II era, it experienced a period of steady growth and modernization.

Today, Oklahoma County continues to be a dynamic and diverse region, both economically and culturally. It is home to a variety of industries, including energy, aerospace, and healthcare. The county also boasts numerous cultural and recreational attractions, such as the Oklahoma City National Memorial, the vibrant Bricktown district, and the Oklahoma City Zoo. As the most populous county in the state, Oklahoma County remains an important center for commerce, education, and entertainment in Oklahoma.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Oklahoma County, Oklahoma.

  • 1830s - Oklahoma County originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Plains Apache and Caddo
  • 1889 - Land Run of 1889 opens Oklahoma Territory for settlement, prompting the establishment of Oklahoma County
  • 1893 - First courthouse constructed in Oklahoma County
  • 1904 - Statehood for Oklahoma, making Oklahoma County an official county within the state
  • 1930s - During the Great Depression, Oklahoma County experiences economic challenges
  • 1950s - Suburban growth and expansion in Oklahoma County
  • 1995 - Oklahoma City bombing, a terrorist attack in downtown Oklahoma City, affects the county and the nation
  • 2000s - Ongoing development, population growth, and urbanization in Oklahoma County