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Ponca City, Oklahoma

Ponca City, Oklahoma

Ponca City was founded on September 16, 1893 when the great land run opened the Cherokee Strip to white settlement. Named for one of five neighboring tribes of Indians, Ponca's heritage was based on agriculture, oil and industry. During the oil boom years, local philanthropists and influential citizens built many of the historic buildings in Ponca City, giving a rich heritage of architectural treasures.

In the summer of 1893, a survey of the land that now comprises Ponca City was completed and lots were mapped. Certificates for lots in Ponca City were sold by the Ponca Townsite Company for $2 each and each certificate was good for either one business lot or one residential lot. Over 2,300 certificates were sold. A little girl drew the cards from a box placed on Grand Avenue between 3rd and 4th streets. From these drawings attendants recorded the certificate owners' names and lot selections in large bound books. This is believed to be the first instance of a new city being started with a town lot drawing. It took two days to complete the drawings and Ponca City was born.

Even though Ponca City began with the 1893 land run, it was the '20s when the city came alive. Outlandish parties, wild new music -- a time of gay abandon. It was roaring good fun.

Another roaring was that of the oil wells and with that sound came money. Money that left its indelible mark on our community -- beautiful golf courses, posh hotels, lavish homes, rich gardens, a grand theater -- an elegant legacy upon which our citizens today continue to build.

Welcome to Ponca City!. Immerse yourself in our history.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

101 Ranch Memorial

101 Ranch - A National Historic Landmark, this picnic area commemorates the 101 Ranch which was home to the hundreds of participants in the famous 101 Wild West Show. This show, which traveled throughout the world in the 1920

Ponca City, OK Memorials

Grace Episcopal Church

Grace Episcopal Church began in 1898 in another location in town.. The sanctuary was designed by John Duncan Forsyth and was commissioned on Whit Sunday 1951 in our current location of 13

Ponca City, OK Historic Churches

Standing Bear Statue and Memorial Park

A monumental tribute to all Native Americans, this 22

Ponca City, OK Arts



Things to do near Ponca City, OK

Chain Ranch Sportsmans Club

The opportunity to hunt and fish on over 100,000 acres of some of the best habitat in the country has now been made available...

Ad Buck Museum of Science and History

The A.D. Buck Museum of Science and History was founded in 1913 by Mr. C. E. Johnson who was a biology instructor. One of his...

Lake Etling Fishing

Jetties and berms along the 5 miles of shoreline provide excellent fishing opportunities at Lake Carl G. Etling. Brush shelte...