Historical Marker

Wagoner

Historical marker location:
307 East Cherokee Street, Wagoner, Oklahoma
( Marker is at the intersection of Cherokee Street (State Highway 51) and Casaver Avenue, on the left when traveling east on Cherokee Street.)
Marker installed: 1996

In 1896, Wagoner became Indian Territory's first incorporated town. The following year, the territory's first public schools began here

Audiobooks about the history of Oklahoma.
Oklahoma is known as the "Sooner State" because of the land runs that occurred in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. "Sooners" were people who snuck into the unassigned lands of the Oklahoma Territory before the official opening of the land runs. The term "Sooner" eventually became a nickname for people from Oklahoma.
Oklahoma random facts
Wagoner County, located in northeastern Oklahoma, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Osage, Creek, and Cherokee, who used the fertile land for farming and hunting. The arrival of European settlers in the early 19th century led to conflicts and forced removals of the Native American tribes during the Trail of Tears.

In 1907, with the creation of the state of Oklahoma, Wagoner County was established. The county was named after Colonel J.M. Wagoner, a prominent Army officer during the Civil War. The railroad played a significant role in the county's development, with the Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railroad (MKT) extending tracks through the area in the late 1800s. This boosted commerce and allowed for the efficient transportation of goods and people.

During the early 20th century, Wagoner County experienced a boom in agriculture, with cotton being the primary crop. The county also saw growth in oil production, leading to increased prosperity and population. However, the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl brought economic challenges to the area, causing many farmers to lose their lands and homes.

In more recent years, Wagoner County has seen significant growth and development. The county is home to several notable attractions, such as the annual Coweta Fall Festival, which celebrates the area's agricultural heritage. Wagoner County also offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing and boating on the nearby Fort Gibson Lake. Today, the county continues to thrive as a vibrant community, blending its rich history with modern amenities and a welcoming atmosphere.

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

  • 1907 - Wagoner County is established as one of the 77 counties in Oklahoma.
  • 1908 - First county government officials are elected.
  • 1909 - Wagoner becomes the county seat, replacing Coweta.
  • 1915 - Construction of the county courthouse is completed.
  • 1923 - The Kansas, Oklahoma and Gulf Railway is built, contributing to the county's development.
  • 1930s - Wagoner County experiences the effects of the Great Depression.
  • 1940s - Wagoner County's economy booms due to the construction of Camp Gruber during World War II.
  • 1960s - Lake Tenkiller is created, becoming a popular tourist attraction in the county.
  • 1970s - Growth in population and development of suburban areas accelerate.
  • 1990 - The Creek Turnpike is completed, improving transportation in the county.
  • 2000s - Wagoner County experiences rapid population growth and urbanization.
  • 2018 - The county's population reaches over 75,000 residents.