The fascinating and adventurous history of Frederick, Oklahoma
Frederick, Oklahoma, a town born from the merging of two pioneer settlements in 1902, carries a rich history that shapes its present-day community. From its origins as part of the last Oklahoma Territory lands opened for settlement, to its role as a vital agricultural hub and a World War II training site, Frederick's story is one of resilience and growth. Today, the City of Frederick operates under a city manager and council form of government, dedicated to serving its residents and fostering a thriving community.
History of Frederick, Oklahoma:
Frederick, Oklahoma, is situated in an area that was among the last of the Oklahoma Territory Land to be opened to settlement, an event that occurred in 1901 with the opening of the Kiowa-Comanche-Apache reservation. This period saw the establishment of two distinct communities, Gosnell and Hazel. In 1902, these settlements merged to form Frederick, a consolidation facilitated by the arrival of the Blackwell, Enid and Southwestern Railroad. The town was named in honor of a railroad executive's son. Gosnell's depot became a central point, prompting Hazel's residents to relocate to the newly formed Frederick. A 1962 dedication of a flagpole in Pioneer Park commemorated the original agreement between Gosnell, Hazel, and the railroad.
In 1905, President Theodore Roosevelt's visit to Frederick, to meet with Jack Abernathy, a notable wolf hunter, brought early attention to the region's potential for recreation. Frederick was incorporated in 1907, the same year Oklahoma achieved statehood, and the arrival of the Katy Railroad further stimulated the town's development. By 1915, Frederick boasted an infrastructure of 15 miles of sidewalks and crossings, along with 75 miles of graded streets. Paved streets were introduced in 1918.
During World War II, Frederick served as the final B-25 training base. In 1953, this facility was transferred to the City of Frederick, and it now functions as the Frederick Municipal Airport and Industrial Park.
Read more about Tillman County’s history on the Tillman County Historical Society’s Website.
Noteable People
Frederick has been home to some truly remarkable individuals who have left their mark on the world. Among them:
Jack Abernathy: A legendary wolf hunter, whose skill and reputation drew President Theodore Roosevelt to Frederick in 1905, highlighting the town's unique connection to the American West.
Newby Odell Brantly: Newby Odell Brantly's life exemplifies Frederick's spirit of enterprise and community investment. A pioneer in the petroleum industry, he's credited with inventing the Brantly Mud Pump and various drilling tools, and he also designed a brassiere!
These individuals, each in their own way, embody the spirit and drive that Frederick fosters. See more about noteworthy and famous people from our charming small town of Frederick, Oklahoma.
Fun Facts about Frederick
It is suspected that our historical Ramona Theatre is haunted. Paranormal Groups have camped out to prove it a few times..
Mike Rowe, host of Dirty Jobs, has recorded a show in Frederick! See here
Frederick has been a leader in diversity for many years. Our 1956 football team was the first to desegregate and went on to become Oklahoma State Champions. Read here.
Several movies have been filmed in Frederick, Oklahoma. See more here.
More Resources
Tillman County Historical Society
https://www.tillmanokhistory.org/
P.O. Box 833
Frederick, OK 73542
(580) 335-5844
TillmanOKHistory@mail.com
