BIXBY city history
A Brief History of Bixby
Bixby, Oklahoma, was officially founded in 1902 as a government townsite, surveyed and platted in 1902 and 1905. Named after Tams Bixby, a member of the Dawes Commission. The town's early development was heavily influenced by the construction of the Midland Valley Railroad in 1904, which brought economic opportunities to the area. Bixby also experienced a period of growth due to the discovery of nearby oil fields in 1913. Here's a more detailed look at Bixby's history:
Early Days and the Dawes Commission:
- Bixby was established as a townsite in the 1900s, after allotment of lands to Creek Nation individuals.
- Tams Bixby, a member of the Dawes Commission, was instrumental in the process of allotting tribal lands, and the town was named in his honor.
- The Midland Valley Railroad played a crucial role in Bixby's growth, bringing in new settlers and businesses.
- A post office was designated in Bixby in July 1899, and the town was surveyed in February 1902.
- The town incorporated in 1906, with its first election held in February 1907.
Economic Development:
- The discovery of oil fields near Bixby in 1913 significantly impacted the town's economic development.
- Prior to statehood, the area was part of the Creek Nation's Recording District No. 7 in Indian Territory.
- Farming remained a major part of Bixby's economy, with farmers producing cotton, wheat, and alfalfa.
- The nickname "Garden Spot of Oklahoma" was earned in 1941 due to Bixby's importance as a regional center for shipping produce by railroads.
Other Notable Events:
- The Bixby Bulletin, the local newspaper, was first published in 1905.
- The Bixby Historical Society was established in 1983 to preserve and promote the history of the area.
- The town has a rich history of community events, including the Green Corn Festival, which celebrates its agricultural roots.