National Register of Historic Places listings in Woodward County, Oklahoma facts for kids
This article is about special places in Woodward County, Oklahoma that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This register is like a special list kept by the United States government. It helps protect buildings, sites, and objects that are important because of their history, architecture, or what they mean to American culture.
When a place is added to this list, it means it's recognized as a valuable part of our past. It also helps people learn about these places and sometimes even get help to keep them safe and preserved for the future. In Woodward County, Oklahoma, there are five amazing places that have made it onto this important list!
What is the National Register of Historic Places?
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the nation's historic places worth saving. It's managed by the National Park Service, which is part of the U.S. government. Think of it as a Hall of Fame for historic buildings, battlefields, parks, and even entire neighborhoods.
Why are places added to the list?
Places are added to the National Register for many reasons. They might be:
- Very old and show how people lived long ago.
- Designed in a special way by a famous architect.
- Important because a famous person lived there or a big event happened there.
- A great example of a certain style of building or way of life.
Being on the list helps people appreciate these places and encourages their protection. It also means they might get special grants or tax benefits to help with their upkeep.
Historic Places in Woodward County
Let's explore the five special places in Woodward County that are on the National Register of Historic Places. Each one tells a unique story about the area's past.
Fort Supply Historic District
- Location: Fort Supply, Oklahoma
- Listed: June 21, 1971
Fort Supply was a very important military post in the late 1800s. It was established in 1868 by General Philip Sheridan to help protect settlers and control conflicts with Native American tribes. The fort played a key role in the Red River War and was a supply base for many military operations.
Today, the Fort Supply Historic District includes several of the original buildings from the fort. These buildings help us imagine what life was like for soldiers and civilians living on the frontier. It's a great place to learn about the history of the American West and the role of the military in shaping the region.
L. L. Stine House
- Location: 1001 10th Street, Woodward, Oklahoma
- Listed: October 7, 1983
The L. L. Stine House is a beautiful old home located in the city of Woodward. It was built for L. L. Stine, who was an important person in the early development of Woodward. Homes like this one show us the architectural styles and living conditions of people who helped build towns in Oklahoma during the early 20th century.
This house is a great example of the kind of homes built for successful families in the area. It helps us understand the history of Woodward's growth and the people who contributed to it.
Woodward Crystal Beach Park
- Location: Jim Ben and Temple Houston Streets, Woodward, Oklahoma
- Listed: September 8, 1988
Woodward Crystal Beach Park is a historic park that has been a popular spot for fun and relaxation for many years. It was created in the 1930s during the Great Depression, a time when many people were struggling. Parks like Crystal Beach offered a much-needed escape and a place for communities to gather.
The park features a large swimming pool, a bathhouse, and other recreational facilities. It's a wonderful example of how communities created public spaces for entertainment and leisure, even during tough times. It continues to be a beloved park for the people of Woodward.
Woodward Federal Courthouse and Post Office
- Location: 1023 10th Street, Woodward, Oklahoma
- Listed: September 6, 2007
This impressive building in Woodward serves as both a federal courthouse and a post office. It was built to provide important government services to the growing community. Courthouses are places where legal matters are handled, and post offices are where mail is sorted and sent.
The building's design often reflects the importance of government institutions. This particular building is a great example of the architecture used for public buildings in the early to mid-20th century. It stands as a symbol of law, order, and communication in Woodward.
The Woodward Theater
- Location: 818 Main Street, Woodward, Oklahoma
- Listed: December 4, 2008
The Woodward Theater is a historic movie theater located on Main Street in Woodward. Movie theaters like this one were once the heart of entertainment in many towns across America. Before televisions were common, going to the movies was a big event for families and friends.
The theater's design often included grand entrances and comfortable seating to make the movie-going experience special. The Woodward Theater reminds us of a time when going to the cinema was a major social activity and a way for people to enjoy stories and entertainment together. It's a cool piece of Woodward's cultural history.
