Oklahoma - Sooners
Welcome to Oklahoma City, the capital and of the great state of Oklahoma! Oklahoma, a name that means "The land of the red people" is a reference to the Native American Indian Tribes that first lived here. During the 1800s, the US government was forcibly relocating Indian tribes from all over the country into the area known as Oklahoma Territory. There was one parcel of land that was never given over to any Indian tribe - the Unassigned Lands.
Oklahoma City was settled on April 22, 1889, when the area known as the "unassigned lands" was opened for settlement in an event called "The Oklahoma Land Run". Anxious to have their own land, Some 10,000 homesteaders settled what is now downtown Oklahoma City, creating a tent city in a single day. When , the Unassigned Lands were opened up by the government, about 50,000 homesteaders gathered on April 22, 1889. When some of them snuck over at night to stake out prime land early, they became knows as "Sooners." Within 10 years the population had doubled in what became a permanent settlement and the future capital of Oklahoma.
A month after the Land Run, the Commercial Club was formed, which was later renamed the Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber began attracting railroads to Oklahoma City, and the new town was well on its way to economic prosperity. By 1900, our population had doubled. Statehood came for Oklahoma on November 16, 1907, making 2007 our Centennial Celebration year. In 1917, Oklahoma City became the State Capital.
Everything changed when, on December 4, 1928, oil was discovered in Oklahoma City, creating the city's most important financial source and making Oklahoma City the world's newest boom town. Oil continues to be one the most important players in the city's economy.
Oklahoma City is proud to have been recognized as a 2007 winner (again) by America's Promise-The Alliance for Youth as one of the 100 Best Communities for Young People for its commitment to provide healthy, safe and caring environments for young people.
We offer much for the whole family to enjoy. We encourage you to come and see for yourself.. Explore an island of paradise at the Myriad Botanical Gardens during Kilauea's Coast, the explosive new exhibit now opening the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory. Here you will also be able to experience "Shakespeare in the Park". And, since you are coming to the land of cowboys, be sure and set aside the time to experience the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, which preserves the rugged individualism and romantic spirit of the frontier.
Don't forget, this year is Oklahoma's Centennial celebration and what better place to celebrate it than in its capital city. You won't want to miss what Oklahoma City has in store! There's so much more than we can even mention, so come and discover Oklahoma City for yourself!
Source:
City of Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce
