1. Oklahoma's statehood anniversary falls on February 29th
Oklahoma became a state on November 16, 1907. However, because November 16th doesn't fall on a leap year, the state of Oklahoma officially celebrates its statehood anniversary on February 29th in leap years.
2. Guthrie, Oklahoma's capital for a day
On April 22, 1889, Oklahoma land was opened for settlement in a chaotic event known as the Oklahoma Land Run. The town of Guthrie was established and became the territorial capital of Oklahoma. However, on February 29, 1910, the state legislature voted to move the capital to Oklahoma City, making Guthrie the capital for just one day.
3. Oklahoma's largest earthquake
The largest earthquake in Oklahoma history occurred on February 29, 1952. The earthquake had a magnitude of 5.5 and caused significant damage in the Oklahoma City area. Luckily, there were no reported fatalities.
4. First legal lottery in Oklahoma
Oklahoma has a unique history with lotteries. In 1989, Oklahoma held its first legal lottery drawing on February 29th. The lottery helped fund education and has since become a regular occurrence in Oklahoma.
5. First black state senator in Oklahoma
On February 29, 1960, Oklahoma elected its first black state senator, Fred Harris. Harris went on to have a distinguished career in Oklahoma politics, serving as a US Senator and running for President of the United States in 1976.
5 Fun Facts About February 29 In Oklahoma History
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