Ten fun facts about Oklahoma

1. 6 states, Oklahoma's unique position

Oklahoma is bordered by six states: Texas to the south, Arkansas to the east, Missouri to the northeast, Kansas to the north, Colorado to the northwest, and New Mexico to the west. This unique geographic position has allowed Oklahoma to become a cultural and economic hub in the region, with its diverse population and thriving industries.

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2. Oklahoma City Makes History with the First Parking Meter

On July 16, 1935, Oklahoma City made history when it became the first city in the United States to install a parking meter. The device, invented by Oklahoma native Carl C. Magee, was placed on the corner of First Street and Robinson Avenue and marked the beginning of a new era in parking regulation. Magee's invention revolutionized the way cities managed their parking spaces, and it quickly spread to other cities across the country.

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3. Oklahoma Honors Apollo 10 Commander with Life-Size Statue

The city of Weatherford, Oklahoma proudly honors its native son, astronaut Thomas P. Stafford, with a life-size bronze statue. General Stafford, a decorated veteran of the United States Air Force, was the commander of the Apollo 10 mission, the first to orbit the moon. He was also the commander of the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project, the first joint mission between the United States and the Soviet Union. The statue, located in the city's downtown area, serves as a reminder of General Stafford's accomplishments and his commitment to exploration and discovery.

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4. Boise City, Oklahoma becomes the only city bombed during World War II

On July 5, 1943, the small town of Boise City, Oklahoma made history when it became the only city in the United States to be bombed during World War II. The bombing, which was carried out by a Japanese fighter plane, caused minimal damage and no casualties, but it was a stark reminder of the war's reach and the potential danger that even small towns faced. The bombing of Boise City was a unique event in American history, and it serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served in the war.

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5. Oklahoma native revolutionized the shopping experience

Sylvan Goldman, an Oklahoma native, revolutionized the shopping experience when he invented the shopping cart in 1937. His invention allowed shoppers to easily transport multiple items at once, making it easier to buy groceries and other items. Goldman's invention has become an integral part of the shopping experience, and is now used in stores all over the world. His invention has been credited with helping to revolutionize the retail industry, and has been an invaluable tool for shoppers for over 80 years.

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6. Beaver, Oklahoma hosts "World Championship Cow Chip Throw"

Every year, the small town of Beaver, Oklahoma plays host to the unique and quirky "World Championship Cow Chip Throw" competition. Participants compete to see who can toss hardened cow droppings the farthest, with points awarded for distance and accuracy. It's a fun event that draws people from all over the state and beyond, and is a great way to experience a bit of Oklahoma's unique culture.

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7. Oklahoma City: Home to the National Cowboy Hall of Fame

Oklahoma City is a city with a rich history and culture, and is home to the National Cowboy Hall of Fame. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the American West, and celebrates the spirit of the cowboy. It features a variety of exhibits, including artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays, that tell the story of the cowboy and the American West. The museum also hosts a variety of events, such as rodeos, concerts, and festivals, that celebrate the cowboy lifestyle. Oklahoma City is proud to be the home of the National Cowboy Hall of Fame, and it is a great place to learn about the history of the American West.

8. Pecan Fest Celebrates Oklahoma's Nutty Delight

Every year, the city of Okmulgee, Oklahoma plays host to the Pecan Festival, a celebration of the nutty delicacy. This festival has become renowned for its impressive feats of baking, having created the world's largest pecan pie and pecan cookie over the years. The festival is a great opportunity for visitors to sample some of the best pecan-based treats around, as well as enjoy a variety of other activities.

9. Oklahoma's Capital: Oklahoma City

Oklahoma's original capital was Guthrie, but in 1910, a vote was held to decide the new capital of the state, and Oklahoma City was chosen as the winner. This vote was the result of a long-standing debate between Guthrie and Oklahoma City, with both cities vying for the title of capital. Ultimately, Oklahoma City won out, and it has been the capital of Oklahoma ever since.

10. Oklahoma's Bob Dunn Invented the First Electric Guitar

Bob Dunn, a native of Oklahoma, made history in 1935 when he invented the first electric guitar. As a guitarist in the band “The Beggs”, Dunn was determined to create a guitar that could produce a louder sound than the traditional acoustic guitar. His invention revolutionized the music industry, allowing musicians to create a much fuller sound and reach larger audiences. Dunn's electric guitar has since become an iconic instrument, used by countless musicians around the world.