50 Interesting and Unique Fun Facts about Oklahoma, Situated as the 28th most populous and 20th most extensive state in the United States, Oklahoma resides within the South Central region. Its admittance to statehood occurred on November 16, 1907, marking its establishment as the 46th state in the union. Sharing its borders with six neighboring states (Missouri, New Mexico, Texas, Arkansas, Colorado, and Kansas), Oklahoma encompasses a vibrant and diverse landscape.
Key Highlights of Oklahoma
- Statehood Date: November 16, 1907
- Population Rank: 28th
- Size Rank: 20th
- Counties: 77
- Nickname: The Sooner State
- Capital: Oklahoma City
- People: Oklahomans or Oklahomians
- Abbreviation: OK
Oklahoma City, serving as the state capital, epitomizes the cultural, economic, and political essence of Oklahoma. The state’s interconnections with its six bordering states underscore its geographical and historical relevance within the United States.
1. Etymology and Native Roots
Interesting and Unique Fun Facts about Oklahoma
2. State Motto: “Labor Omnia Vincit”
The name “Oklahoma” originates from the Choctaw words “okla” meaning “people” and “humma” signifying “red.” This etymology pays homage to the Native American tribes residing in the region before statehood, reflecting Oklahoma’s rich indigenous heritage and culture.
The state motto, “Labor conquers all things,” embodies the spirit of hard work, resilience, and determination that Oklahomans uphold in facing challenges and pursuing progress.
3. ‘Sooner’ Legacy and Statehood
During the 1889 land rush, individuals who clandestinely entered the territory before the officially designated time were labeled as “sooners.” This historical event accelerated the settlement of Oklahoma, leading to its statehood in 1907. The term “sooners” evolved to symbolize the state’s identity, later adopted by the University of Oklahoma’s football team.
4. The Panhandle’s Unique Configuration
Comprising three counties – Cimarron (the state’s least populous), Texas, and Beaver – the Oklahoma Panhandle derives its name from its resemblance to the handle of a cooking pan. Spanning 166 miles in length and merely 34 miles wide, this region stands as a distinctive geographic formation within the state.[7]
5. Altitudinal Extremes: Black Mesa and Little River
Black Mesa claims the title of Oklahoma’s highest point, while Little River represents the state’s lowest point, showcasing the diverse elevation ranges within Oklahoma’s landscape.[1]
6. Migration During Environmental Turmoil
The severe droughts and relentless winds that plagued Oklahoma during the 1930s prompted a mass exodus of over a million residents to California. Termed “Okies,” these migrants sought refuge from the harsh environmental conditions.
7. The Devastating Dust Bowl Era
The Dust Bowl, a catastrophic period in the 1930s, engulfed the Southern Plains region in relentless dust storms. This catastrophic event resulted in casualties among humans and livestock, widespread crop failures, and economic hardship. Termed “the Dirty Thirties,” this environmental disaster coupled with the Great Depression forced many to seek livelihoods and better living conditions elsewhere.
8. Diverse Cultural Influence
The land runs of the late 19th and early 20th centuries attracted settlers from diverse origins, including Japan, China, England, Mexico, Canada, and France. This influx of immigrants contributed to the rich tapestry of cultures and ethnicities that shape Oklahoma’s population today.
9. Unique State Capitol
Oklahoma stands out with its state capitol building, which sits directly above an active oil well. This distinction makes it the only state capitol in the United States to have such a feature, highlighting the significance of the oil industry in Oklahoma’s history and economy.
10. Rare Resource Production
Among its unique contributions to resource production, Oklahoma holds the distinction of being the sole state in the U.S. to produce iodine. Additionally, it ranks among the four states that harvest helium, highlighting its diverse natural resource contributions.
11. The Great Oil Well Eruption
In 1930, the Mary Sudik No. 1 oil well in Oklahoma erupted uncontrollably for 11 days. Striking a high-pressure formation nearly 6,500 feet below the state capital, the well produced an astonishing 20,000 barrels of oil and 200 million cubic feet of natural gas daily, making it a landmark incident in the state’s oil history.
12. Invention of Shopping Carts
Sylvan Goldman, owner of the Humpty Dumpty supermarket chain in Oklahoma City, introduced the world’s first shopping carts in 1937. Initially designed resembling folding chairs, these carts faced a slow start but gained popularity after effective marketing campaigns, revolutionizing the retail shopping experience worldwide.
13. Louisiana Purchase Acquisition
Oklahoma became part of the United States through the monumental Louisiana Purchase of 1803. This historical event marked the integration of the region into the growing nation and set the stage for its later development and expansion.
14. Unique County Borders
Cimarron County in Oklahoma boasts a unique geographic distinction. It stands as the only county in the United States bordering five different states: Kansas, Colorado, Texas, New Mexico, and its own state, Oklahoma. Furthermore, it holds the distinction of being the sole county in the nation to share borders with four states concurrently: Kansas, Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas.
15. Red River’s Unique Boundary
The meandering Red River stretches across 1,290 miles (2,080 km), serving as a boundary between Texas and Oklahoma for nearly half of its length. The river owes its distinctive hue to the clay and mineral deposits present in its waters, giving it a reddish coloration.[26]
16. Arcadia’s Monumental Pop Bottle Sculpture
Arcadia, Oklahoma boasts the world’s most extensive sculpture of a pop bottle, towering at an impressive 66 feet. Illuminated by vibrant neon lights during the night, this colossal structure stands as a testament to creative artistry and innovation.
17. Unbroken Political Trend
Since 2000, no Democratic presidential candidate has secured victory in any county within Oklahoma, underscoring the state’s consistent political landscape over recent years.
18. Apocalyptic Dust Storms
On April 14, 1935, the Southern Plains witnessed one of the most devastating dust storms during the Dust Bowl era. Approximately 3 million tons of topsoil were swept away from the Great Plains. The pervasive dust infiltrated even well-sealed homes, leaving a layer on food, skin, and furniture, illustrating the severity of the environmental turmoil.
19. Rich Native American Heritage
After California, Oklahoma proudly holds the position of having the second-largest Native American population in the United States, emphasizing its deep-rooted indigenous culture and heritage.
20. Legacy of Flags
Throughout the history of Oklahoma, as many as 14 different flags have graced its skies, including those representing four foreign nations. This unique aspect reflects the diverse influences and transitions that shaped the state’s territorial past.[21]
21. Towering Tribute to Oil Workers
The “Golden Driller” in Tulsa, Oklahoma stands as the sixth tallest statue in the United States, erected in 1953 as a tribute to the tireless efforts of the oil industry workers. This colossal 75-foot-tall statue, weighing 19,700 kg, commemorates Tulsa’s historic moniker as the “Oil Capital of the World” for a significant part of the 20th century.
22. Abundance of Man-Made Lakes
Boasting over 200 man-made lakes, Oklahoma holds the record for the highest number of such reservoirs among all states in the United States, a testament to its commitment to water resource management and recreation.[9]
23. Transport Hub and Infrastructure
Tulsa and Oklahoma City serve as major transportation hubs within the state. Oklahoma boasts well-developed networks of roads, highways, and railroads, facilitating efficient transportation across the region.
24. Environmental Concerns in Pitcher
Once a thriving mining community, Pitcher, Oklahoma now faces significant environmental challenges since the cessation of mining activities in 1967. The town grapples with dangerous levels of zinc, cadmium, and lead contamination. Additionally, EPA data identifies Kotzebue in Alaska as the most toxic town in the U.S., attributing the release of toxic chemicals to the “Red Dog Mine” in the region.
25. Fort Sill’s Historic Artifact
Fort Sill in Lawton, Oklahoma, serves as the final resting place of the world’s only atomic gun, known as Atomic Annie. Created during the 1950s Cold War era, this weapon underwent a single test but was never deployed in actual combat scenarios.[13]
26. Enigmatic Center of the Universe
Nestled in downtown Tulsa, the Center of the Universe remains a peculiar phenomenon. Despite its unassuming appearance, this spot defies conventional physics. Inside the circle, sound creates an intensified echo, perceptible only to those within the perimeter, baffling those outside who cannot hear a thing.
27. Obesity Statistics
Oklahoma ranks as the fifth most obese state in the U.S., emphasizing the challenges and focus needed on health and wellness within the population.[1]
28. Agricultural Backbone
Livestock production, notably cattle, dairy, and broilers, forms the cornerstone of Oklahoma’s economy, constituting a significant portion of the state’s agricultural income. Wheat stands as a primary crop, alongside other harvests such as peanuts, cotton, hay, and sorghum.
29. Prominence of “The Oklahoman”
“The Oklahoman” stands as the largest newspaper in the state and ranks 54th in the nation by circulation, signifying its vital role in disseminating news and information within Oklahoma.[1]
30. Tornado Alley’s Epicenter
Oklahoma experiences frequent tornadoes, with a staggering count of 3,824 tornadoes between 1950 and 2017. This averages to approximately 56 tornadoes each year, marking the state as a focal point within the notorious “Tornado Alley” in the central United States, known for its high tornado activity.
31. Birthplace of Tornado Warnings
The first-ever tornado warning in the United States was issued in Oklahoma on March 25, 1948. Owing to the state’s consistent tornado occurrences, it remains a pivotal part of “Tornado Alley,” a region synonymous with a heightened frequency of tornadoes.
32. State Quarter Symbolism
The Oklahoma state quarter prominently features the Scissortail Flycatcher, the state bird, depicted in flight with its distinctive tail feathers spread, symbolizing the state’s unique avian heritage.
33. Tragic Memorialization
The Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building was devastated in 1995 by a truck bomb, memorialized today by a 30,000 square foot museum and an outdoor memorial, honoring the lives lost in the tragic incident, paying homage to its history and those affected.[29]
34. Record-Breaking Lightning Phenomenon
In 2007, an extraordinary lightning flash spanned an impressive distance of 321 km (199.5 miles) horizontally, from Tulsa near the Arkansas/Oklahoma border to the Oklahoma Panhandle. This remarkable occurrence stands as a testament to the state’s stunning natural phenomena.
35. Bison: State and National Mammal
In 1972, the Bison was rightfully named Oklahoma’s state mammal for its remarkable abilities, including leaping vertically up to 6 feet and sprinting at speeds reaching 35 miles per hour. Notably, this iconic creature was also designated the national mammal of the United States in 2016.
36. Kaw Lake’s Bald Eagle Haven
Northern Oklahoma’s Kaw Lake harbors one of the state’s largest populations of bald eagles. While the largest recorded bird’s nest belonged to a pair of bald eagles in St. Petersburg, Florida, measuring a staggering 2.9 m (9 ft 6 in) wide and 6 m (20 ft) deep, Kaw Lake stands as a vital habitat for these majestic birds.[18,19]
37. Brush with Space Debris
Tulsa’s Lottie Williams holds the unique distinction of being the only person hit by space debris. In an unprecedented event on January 22, 1997, she was struck by a 6-inch-long piece of a rocket, fortunately sustaining no injuries as it grazed her shoulder. The odds of such an occurrence are astronomically rare, about one in a trillion, far less common than being struck by lightning, which stands at one in 1.4 million.[16]
38. Challenging Conditions for Childbirth
According to a study, Oklahoma ranks as the fifth least favorable state for childbirth. Mississippi holds the unenviable top spot as the worst state for childbirth, followed by Alabama as the second least favorable, highlighting concerns about childbirth conditions within Oklahoma’s healthcare system.
39. Birthplace of the Parking Meter
On July 16, 1935, Oklahoma City marked a historic milestone by installing the world’s inaugural parking meter, Park-O-Meter No. 1, in its bustling business district, revolutionizing urban parking systems worldwide.[4]
40. Commemorating Women’s Legacy
The imposing bronze statue, “The Pioneer Woman,” standing at a towering height of seventeen feet and weighing 12,000 pounds, was erected in 1930. Adjacent to this awe-inspiring sculpture lies the Pioneer Woman Museum, inaugurated on September 15, 1958, underscoring the monumental contributions of women from diverse backgrounds in shaping Oklahoma’s rich heritage.[28]
41. Aquatic Marvels at the Oklahoma Aquarium
A must-visit destination in the state, the Oklahoma Aquarium entices visitors with immersive exhibits showcasing remarkable aquatic life. Patrons can witness the splendor of 300-pound sea turtles, vibrant Caribbean fish, and the awe-inspiring presence of reef sharks from underwater observation locations. Notably, the aquarium boasts the largest bull sharks, offering an unforgettable experience suitable for visitors of all ages.[32]
42. Marland Estate Mansion: Preserving History
Located in Ponca City, the Marland Estate Mansion preserves the former residence of E.W. Marland, founder of the Marland Oil Company. Open to the public, this historic site showcases original room spaces and houses small museums like the Bryant Baker Gallery, Carl and Carolyn Renfro Gallery, Marland Oil Museum, and John Duncan Forsyth Room, providing an immersive glimpse into the state’s historical wealth.[34]
43. Oklahoma City: Geographical Center
Situated near the center of Oklahoma, the capital city, Oklahoma City, stands as a hub of cultural, economic, and political significance within the state.
44. Celebrating Native American Heritage
The vibrant Red Earth Festival, hosted annually at the Cox Convention Center in downtown Oklahoma City, serves as a jubilant tribute to the enduring legacy and diverse cultures of Native American communities residing within the state’s borders.[25]
45. Showcasing Western Culture
Located in Oklahoma City, the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, established in 1955, stands as a global hub boasting a prestigious assortment of Western art and artifacts, preserving and promoting the essence of Western culture and history.[27]
46. Rich Tribal Diversity
Oklahoma proudly shelters 39 distinct tribes, representing a tapestry of indigenous cultures and heritage within the state.
47. Culinary Delights of Oklahoma
Oklahomans take pride in their delectable cuisine, offering an array of mouthwatering dishes at various food joints. Savor the renowned steak at local steakhouses or relish grilled specialties. Indulge in refreshing fountain drinks, cold beers, and iconic beverages like the Sonic cherry limeade and tater tots. Oklahoma’s culinary heritage shines through its offerings of Indian tacos, flavorsome barbecue, and the beloved chicken-fried steak, all sourced from the region’s bountiful lands, embodying a rich culinary legacy.
48. Oklahoma City Zoo: A Wildlife Haven
Nestled in the heart of the city, the Oklahoma City Zoo, established in 1902, beckons visitors with an enchanting array of close to 12 attractions. From captivating carnivorous cats to the majesty of Asian elephants and the grace of two species of bears, the zoo offers an immersive experience, providing educational insights and opportunities for profound exploration among the world’s most magnificent animals.[33]
49. Second-Largest Capital by Area
Oklahoma City holds the distinction of being the second-largest capital city in the United States by area, boasting a vast expanse of land within its municipal limits.[35]
50. Economic Dynamics and Tourism Focus
Oklahoma grapples with an annual per capita income and median household income below the national average, predominantly due to an economy historically reliant on petroleum and agriculture. To diversify and bolster its economic standing, the state is actively investing in tourism initiatives, striving to attract visitors. While oil and gas have historically driven the state’s economy, efforts to promote tourism signify a deliberate shift in economic focus in recent times.
Oklahoma State Flag: Symbolism and Heritage Representation
| Design Basis | The Oklahoma flag pays homage to over 60 Native American tribes and their ancestral groups. |
| Symbolism | The blue field of the flag was derived from a Choctaw soldier’s flag during the American Civil War. The central shield symbolizes the Osage warrior’s battle shield. |
| Materials & Decorations | The flag is crafted from buffalo leather and adorned with eagle feathers. It displays two peace symbols: the calumet (peace pipe) and an olive branch. |
| Representation of Ideals | Six crosses on the shield represent Native American star signs, signifying noble aspirations and values. |
| Adoption Date & Designer | Adopted on April 2, 1925, the flag’s design was crafted by Louise Funk Fluke, based on Joseph Thoburn’s concepts from the Oklahoma Historical Society. |
| Significance of Blue | Blue, the primary color of the flag, symbolizes the Choctaw’s flag during the Civil War and represents devotion. |
| Heritage & Tradition | The flag prominently features a traditional Osage Nation buffalo-skin shield with seven eagle feathers attached at the bottom, embodying the state’s rich heritage. |
Oklahoma: State Overview
| State Size | Total (Land + Water): 69,898 sq miles; Land Only: 68,667 sq miles |
| Population | 4,019,800 (Estimate July 1, 2022 from United States Census Bureau) |
| Statehood | November 16, 1907 |
| State Rank by Population | 28th |
| State Rank by Date of Formation | 46th |
| State Rank by Area | 20th |
| Number of Counties | 77 |
| Demonym | Oklahoman; Okie (colloq.) |
| Bordering States | Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, New Mexico, Texas |
| Official Language | English |
| Highest Point | Black Mesa – 4,975 ft (1516 m) |
| Lowest Point | Little River at Arkansas border – 289 ft (88 m) |
| Mean Elevation | 1,300 feet above sea level |
| Length | 465 miles (750 km) |
| Width | 230 miles (450 km) |
| Governor | Kevin Stitt (R) |
| Lieutenant Governor | Matt Pinnell (R) |
| Electoral Votes | 7 |
| State Motto | Labor omnia vincit (Labor conquers all things) |
| State Nickname | Sooner State |
| Percentage Water | 1.8 |
| Famous People | Dan Hampton (Pro Football player), Bullet Rogan (Baseball player), Marques Haynes (Basketball player), Brad Pitt (Actor), Garth Brooks (Singer) |
| State Tree | Redbud |
| State Amphibian | Bullfrog |
| State Animal | Bison |
| State Bird | Scissor-tailed Flycatcher |
| State Butterfly | Black Swallowtail |
| State Furbearer Animal | Raccoon |
| State Fish | White bass |
| State Fruit | Strawberry |
| State Fossil | Saurophaganax Maximus |
| State Flower | Oklahoma Rose |
| State Flying Mammal | Mexican free-tailed bat |
| State Game Bird | Wild turkey |
| State Insect | Honey bee |
| State Reptile | Collared lizard |
| State Vegetable | Watermelon |
| State Wild Flower | Indian blanket |
| Longitude | 94° 26′ W to 103° W |
| Latitude | 33°37′ N to 37° N |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone |
| Website | www.ok.gov |
| Area Codes | 405, 580, 918 |
| Table last updated | November 25, 2023 |
