Monroe, Oklahoma, is a small town rich in history. Located in the central part of the state, Monroe has witnessed many historical events that are remembered to this day. Here are seven significant events that have taken place near Monroe, Oklahoma.

1. The Oklahoma Land Run of 1889

Monroe, OK was situated on the eastern edge of Indian Territory before the Oklahoma Land Run of 1889. When the U.S. government held the Land Run, thousands of homesteaders raced to claim available land. By noon of April 22nd, all area available for claim was already taken by settlers. The Land Run of 1889 was a pivotal moment in the history of Oklahoma, marking the beginning of its statehood.

2. The Battle of Round Mountain

The Battle of Round Mountain took place on November 19, 1861, near present-day Yale, just 20 miles north of Monroe, OK. This battle was the first major engagement in the Civil War in Indian Territory. The Union forces, made up mostly of loyalists from the Creek and Seminole tribes, fought with Confederate soldiers from Texas. The battle resulted in a Union victory and opened the way for Union forces to move into Indian Territory.

3. The Battle of Honey Springs

The Battle of Honey Springs, also known as the Battle of Elk Creek, took place on July 17, 1863, near present-day Checotah, only 30 miles from Monroe, OK. It was the largest battle fought in Indian Territory during the Civil War. Union soldiers and Native American regiments, under the command of General Blunt, battled against Confederate forces under General Cooper. The Union Army emerged victorious, and the battle dealt a severe blow to the Confederate forces in the area.

4. Red River Bridge War

In 1931, the Red River Bridge War erupted between two states, Oklahoma and Texas, over a toll bridge in Harrold, Texas, just 70 miles from Monroe. The bridge was built over the Red River, and Texas authorities levied tolls on Oklahoma residents who used the crossing. The dispute caused immense tension between the two neighboring states, and a group of Oklahoma residents attempted to dynamite the bridge, but the attempt failed.

5. The Discovery of Oil

In the early 1900s, oil was discovered near Glenpool, about 40 miles from Monroe, OK. It led to a boom in oil drilling and production, which changed the economic landscape of Oklahoma and the surrounding region. The discovery brought about economic prosperity, leading to the development of infrastructure, including roads, schools, and hospitals.

6. The Tulsa Race Massacre

The Tulsa Race Massacre, one of the darkest events in Oklahoma history, occurred between May 31st and June 1st, 1921. The massacre took place in the historic Greenwood District in Tulsa, less than 100 miles from Monroe, OK. A white mob attacked the largest Black community in the United States, leading to deaths and multiple buildings destroyed. The incident led to the displacement of thousands of Black residents of the city, leaving an enduring stain on the State's history.

7. The Establishment of Tinker Air Force Base

The Tinker Air Force Base, about 100 miles from Monroe, OK, was established in 1941 during the Second World War. The base played a significant role in the war effort, providing maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for military aircraft. Tinker Air Force Base has played a significant role in Oklahoma's economy, providing communities with jobs and opportunities.

In conclusion, Monroe, OK, has witnessed and been influenced by several significant historical events that have left an indelible mark on the state of Oklahoma. Understanding these events provides insight into the State's history and its place in the country's broader historical narrative.