Bethel, Oklahoma facts for kids
Bethel is a name that refers to a few different places in the U.S. state of Oklahoma. Sometimes, places have the same name, so it's important to know which one people are talking about!
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What is Bethel?
The name "Bethel" comes from a Hebrew word meaning "House of God." It's a common name for towns, churches, and other places, especially in areas with a strong religious history. In Oklahoma, there are a few communities that share this name.
Bethel in Comanche County
- Bethel, Comanche County, Oklahoma is a small, unincorporated community. This means it's a group of homes and buildings that aren't officially part of a city or town government. It's located in Comanche County, Oklahoma, which is in the southwestern part of the state.
Bethel in Grant County
- Another place named Bethel was once located in Grant County, Oklahoma. This Bethel was very small and only had a post office for a short time, from March 12, 1895, to November 2, 1895. A post office is where mail is sent and received, and its short life suggests the community didn't grow much. Grant County is in the northern part of Oklahoma, near the border with Kansas.
Bethel in McCurtain County
- Bethel, McCurtain County, Oklahoma is another rural, unincorporated community. This one is found in McCurtain County, Oklahoma, which is in the southeastern corner of the state, known for its beautiful forests and lakes.
Bethel Acres
- Bethel Acres, Oklahoma is a town in Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma. Unlike the other Bethels mentioned, Bethel Acres is an officially recognized town with its own local government. Pottawatomie County is located in the central part of Oklahoma.
Why are there so many Bethels?
It's common for places to share names, especially names that have historical or religious meaning. When settlers moved across the United States, they often named new communities after places they remembered or after words that were important to them. This is why you might find several towns with the same name in different parts of a state or even across the country!