Oklahoma City is the capital and largest city of Oklahoma state, first settled on April 22, 1889. After the Settlement, the population of the town doubled between 1890 and 1900. The city was initially developed as a distribution point for crops and cattle; large stockyards were built, which attracted people and jobs from other states. Meatpacking plants were established, and when the railroads arrived in the city, it doubled the trade. The first oil well in Oklahoma City was discovered in 1928, which significantly accelerated and expanded the economy, and at one time, about 1,400 wells were producing oil within the city limits. World War II brought several industries, Air Force base and the city became a significant hub in the national Interstate Highway System. In the 1970s, Patience Latting was elected as the first female mayor of Oklahoma City.
Here below are some interesting historical photos of old Oklahoma City form the early 20th century that shows street scenes, architecture, cityscapes, streetcars, and everyday life of people.
![Manley Creasson [Creason], 914 West Sixth Street, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, March 15, 1917](https://www.bygonely.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Oklahoma_City_historical_photos_18.jpg)
There hasn’t been much change
Progress Beer
It is incredible to imagine all that this city has seen, but to see it in photos is something else entirely
Damn, didn’t know may av was such a dump
During the Great Depression, a shantytown known as “Hooverville” was created in the area. It was predominantly occupied by displaced farmers who were affected by the dust bowl, as well as people who lost their jobs when industries shut down after the crash. While parts of the camp were still present until the 1970s, most of it had been cleared and paved over by then.
It’s amazing that the Hooverville camp lasted until the 1970s. I wonder if there are any remnants of it still visible today.
It was located south of the river and west of the meat packing district. According to Google Maps, the area is now occupied by houses and businesses, mostly auto repair shops. While there may still be some remnants of the encampment, it’s likely that most of it has been cleared out.
I find it fascinating to see historical buildings and abandoned structures. I also noticed that the former police headquarters in downtown was vacant for a few years, and the old jail still stands to this day.