Learn About Wellston, Oklahoma

Wellston Overview

City History:

Wellston is a small city located in Lincoln County, Oklahoma, United States. It was founded in 1893 as a trading post and was named after Harvey W. Well, an employee of the St. Louis-San Francisco Railway. The city grew rapidly due to its location on the railway line and became a hub for agricultural trade in the region.

Interesting Facts:

• Wellston was once home to the Wellston Boomers, a professional baseball team that played in the Oklahoma-Kansas League in the early 1900s.
• The city is known for its annual Wellston Coal Festival, which celebrates the history of coal mining in the area.
• Wellston was also the site of a notorious shootout between law enforcement and the infamous Barker gang in the 1930s.

Interesting People:

• Ben Johnson, an Academy Award-winning actor, was born in Wellston in 1918.
• Jack Donovan, a professional baseball player who played for the Boston Red Sox, was also from Wellston.

Top Attractions in Wellston:

• Wellston Coal Festival
• Wellston Historical Museum
• Wellston City Park

Top Attractions Nearby:

• Route 66 Interpretive Center in Chandler
• Lincoln County Historical Society Museum in Chandler
• Deep Fork National Wildlife Refuge

Population History:

Wellston's population has fluctuated over the years, reaching a peak of around 1,500 residents in the 1920s. Today, the population stands at approximately 800 people.

Geography:

Wellston is located in central Oklahoma, approximately 40 miles northeast of Oklahoma City. The city is situated in a rural area with rolling hills and farmland surrounding it.

Economy:

Wellston's economy is primarily based on agriculture, with many residents working in farming and ranching. The city also has a small retail sector and some light industry.

Culture:

Wellston has a rich cultural history, with a strong emphasis on preserving its heritage. The city hosts several events throughout the year to celebrate its history, including the Wellston Coal Festival and various historical reenactments.

Notable Landmarks:

• The Wellston Water Tower, a historic landmark that dates back to the early 1900s
• The Wellston Depot, a restored train station that now serves as a museum
• The Wellston Cemetery, which contains the graves of many early settlers and prominent residents

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