National Register Listing

Duncan Public Library

a.k.a. Old Duncan Library

301 N. 8th St., Duncan, OK
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Economics

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1999.

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.

architecture economics library
The first permanent European settlement in Oklahoma was established by French fur traders in 1719 near present-day Spiro.
Oklahoma random facts
Stephens County, located in south-central Oklahoma, has a rich and diverse history that stretches back thousands of years. The land that would become Stephens County was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Comanches and Kiowas. These nomadic tribes relied on hunting bison and other game for survival.

In the early 19th century, European settlers began to arrive in the area, drawn by the promise of fertile land and natural resources. The region soon became a hub for agriculture, with farmers growing wheat, cotton, and other crops. The establishment of ranching also became a prominent industry, as the open prairies provided ample grazing land for cattle.

The discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought significant changes to Stephens County. The Oklahoma oil boom of the 1910s and 1920s transformed the county into a major oil-producing area. Numerous oil wells were drilled, leading to an economic boom and a surge in population. The presence of oil also attracted industries related to oil refining and production, further stimulating economic growth.

Despite the economic downturn during the Great Depression and the challenges faced during World War II, Stephens County continued to develop. The county's natural resources, including oil and agriculture, played a vital role in sustaining the local economy. Over the years, Stephens County has experienced periods of growth and decline, but it has remained an important center for oil production, agriculture, and rural life in Oklahoma. Today, the county is known for its rich history, friendly communities, and picturesque landscapes.

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

  • 1890s - The land that would become Stephens County is opened up for settlement following the Land Run of 1892.
  • 1907 - Oklahoma becomes a state, and Stephens County is officially formed.
  • Early 1900s - Oil discoveries in the county lead to an oil boom, with numerous oil wells and refineries being established.
  • 1920s - The Great Depression and falling oil prices result in a decline in the county's economy.
  • 1940s - Stephens County experiences a period of growth and prosperity due to increased oil production during World War II.
  • 1950s-1970s - The county's economy diversifies, with the establishment of manufacturing plants, agriculture, and educational institutions.
  • 1980s - The oil industry undergoes a downturn, leading to an economic recession in Stephens County.
  • 1990s-present - The county focuses on revitalizing its economy through the development of tourism, renewable energy, and agriculture.