About Woodward

The History of Woodward

Founded in 1887 at the junction of the Fort Reno Military Road and the Southern Kansas Railway, Woodward began as a critical shipping point for supplies headed to nearby Fort Supply and for cattle destined for eastern markets. Situated on the south bank of the North Canadian River, Woodward quickly became known as one of the "wildest and woolliest" towns in the Cherokee Outlet with as many as 23 saloons and 15 brothels lining its red-dirt streets.

Before Oklahoma became a state, the U.S. Cavalry had established Camp Supply (now Fort Supply) in 1868 at the confluence of Wolf Creek and the Beaver River, about 13 miles northwest of present-day Woodward. It played a major role during the Indian Wars and the transition of native populations onto reservations. Historical figures such as George Armstrong Custer were stationed in the area. The military post closed in 1894 after the region opened to settlement.

The lush grasslands of the Cherokee Outlet were well-suited for cattle grazing, and by the 1880s, the area was a key passage for Texas herds headed north. The Cherokee Strip Livestock Association leased large tracts of prairie until the U.S. government opened the land for settlement. On September 16, 1893, thousands of pioneers flooded the area in the Cherokee Outlet land run, claiming land and town lots by horse, wagon, bicycle, and on foot. Lacking readily available timber, many settlers dug into the soil to build homes until lumber could be brought in by rail.

Railroads were essential to the survival of new towns, and Woodward’s location along the rail line secured its success. Businesses, banks, post offices, and law offices quickly followed, and Woodward became the county seat when Woodward County was officially formed. Originally, Woodward County encompassed a much larger area, but political decisions during Oklahoma’s Constitutional Convention later reduced it to its current boundaries.

Through grit and perseverance, early residents helped shape Woodward into a strong, enduring community, still proud of its frontier heritage.

Boomer Tank
Downtown Woodward

Woodward Today

Today, Woodward is a dynamic regional hub in northwest Oklahoma, serving more than 70,000 residents in surrounding communities. With a population of over 11,000, the city combines small-town values with progressive development and economic growth.

Woodward continues to thrive with a strong presence in the energy sector, now including not only oil and gas but also renewable wind energy. The city has seen consistent investment in infrastructure and public amenities, including the multi-million dollar renovation of Crystal Beach Park, an anchor for community recreation and events.

Education and workforce development are priorities, as evidenced by the expansion of Northwestern Oklahoma State University’s Woodward campus, offering more higher education opportunities close to home. Downtown revitalization efforts, including the Main Street streetscape project, are enhancing the city’s charm and walkability, drawing both residents and visitors alike.

The city’s business community remains strong, with recent growth in banking, hospitality, dining, and retail. Combined with low unemployment and a high quality of life, Woodward continues to be a place where people come to work, live, and build a future.

As one resident aptly described it in 1944, Woodward is the town “you’ve been wishing for, dreaming of, and looking for”, a place where heritage and hospitality meet progress and possibility.