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Woods County is located in the northwest region of Oklahoma and has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s. Here are seven interesting facts about this county's history:
1. The area that is now Woods County was originally part of the Cherokee Outlet, which was acquired by the federal government in 1893 to provide land for homesteaders. It was officially established as Woods County in 1893.
2. The town of Alva is the county seat of Woods County and was named after Alva Adams, a former governor of Colorado. Alva was founded in 1893, and within a year, it had a population of over 1,200 people.
3. Woods County was named after Samuel Newitt Wood, a lawyer and politician who served as Oklahoma's Territorial Delegate to Congress from 1891 to 1893. Wood worked tirelessly to secure the passage of the Dawes Act, which aimed to assimilate Native Americans into mainstream society.
4. The Cherokee Strip Museum in Alva is dedicated to preserving the history of the Cherokee Outlet and features exhibits on pioneer life, farming, and transportation. One of the museum's highlights is the restored Cherokee Strip Land Run wagon that was used during the 1893 land rush.
5. The Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Alva was established in 1897, making it one of the oldest universities in Oklahoma. The university has a strong agricultural program and is home to several sports teams, including the Rangers.
6. Woods County was a hub of oil production in the early 20th century. The first oil well in the county was drilled in 1913, and within a few years, the county was producing over 3 million barrels of oil per year.
7. Woods County played a significant role in World War II. The county was home to the Avard Air Force Base, which trained bomber pilots and navigators. The base was in operation from 1942 to 1945 and played a crucial part in the war effort.
In conclusion, Woods County has a rich and fascinating history that spans over a century. From the Cherokee Outlet land rush to oil production and World War II, this county has contributed significantly to the growth and development of Oklahoma.
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