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Washington County is located in the northeastern corner of Oklahoma. It was founded in 1907 at the time when Oklahoma became a state. The county has played a significant role in the history of Oklahoma, the United States, and even the world. Here are seven interesting facts that you may not know about the history of Washington County:
1. Bartlesville was the first city in Oklahoma to have a skyscraper: In 1914, the Price Tower was built in Bartlesville, and it was the first skyscraper in Oklahoma. It was designed by famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
2. The Washington County Courthouse has a unique history: The county originally built a courthouse in 1909, but it was destroyed by fire in 1915. A second courthouse was built in 1917, but it was condemned in 1981. Finally, the current courthouse was completed in 1985.
3. Washington County played a role in World War II: During World War II, the United States needed an alternative source of rubber because the Japanese controlled the world's supply. Bartlesville's Phillips Petroleum Company developed synthetic rubber at its Bartlesville Research Center, which helped the United States win the war.
4. Bartlesville is home to a famous oil tycoon's mansion: Frank Phillips, founder of Phillips Petroleum Company, built a mansion in Bartlesville in 1908. The mansion, known as the Phillips Mansion, is now a museum that showcases the life of the Phillips family and their contributions to the oil industry.
5. Dewey was once known as "The Depot": Dewey was originally called "Glaze," but was renamed "The Depot" because of the large train depot that was built there. The town was later renamed Dewey after Admiral George Dewey, who was a hero in the Spanish-American War.
6. The Osage Nation has a strong presence in Washington County: The Osage Nation has a government headquarters in Pawhuska, which is the county seat of Washington County. The tribe also operates several casinos in the area, which bring in significant revenue for the county.
7. Washington County is home to Woolaroc: Woolaroc is a museum and wildlife preserve that was founded by Frank Phillips. It showcases western art, Native American artifacts, and natural history. Visitors can see bison, elk, and other native animals in their natural habitats.
Washington County has a rich history that spans from its early days as a railroad town to its importance during World War II to its contributions to the oil industry. With attractions like the Price Tower, the Phillips Mansion, and Woolaroc, visitors to Washington County can experience the county's unique history for themselves.
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