What started life as the Oklahoma National Stockyards Company has since become Historic Stockyards City, where live cattle auctions that began in the early part of the 20th century still take place. Monuments that celebrate this history and legacy are spread across Stockyards City, but they’re just part of what makes a visit to the Stockyards an authentic western experience that draws in visitors from all over.
The First Major Industry of Oklahoma
Established in 1910, the Oklahoma National Stockyards are the world’s largest stocker-feeder cattle market. The Stockyards became the site of Oklahoma City’s first major industry, which was had only been established as a result of the Oklahoma Land Rush in 1889. Since its inception, more than 102,000,000 head of livestock have passed through the iron gates leading to the Stockyards operation. Cattle auctions are still held Monday and Tuesday each week.
This history is showcased throughout the area on historical plaques as well as in monuments like “Headed to Market”, which also contain memorials dedicated to individuals. The history associated with the first commercial banks in the Stock Yards are called out as well, and these plaques and monuments provide visitors with a sense of history while also giving them something specific to visit.
Going back to the very beginning, Stockyards City has been the place for cattlemen, horsemen, farmers, ranchers and real cowboys to come for apparel, equipment, supplies while also being to connect and converse with one another. Meeting the needs of these sellers and buyers saw the creations of businesses that offered goods and services that still reside in the area. Whether they’re coming from across the city or across the world, visitors to the Stockyards can get these same things which have greatly influenced the economy and culture of the entire area.
The Impact of Cowboy Culture
For over 80 years, Stockyards City has continually offered the kind of quality products and services that are synonymous with the heritage of the West. Numerous stores sell a wide selection of boots, belts, buckles, hats and accessories. For anyone who can’t find what they need, there are highly skilled artisans ready to custom make whatever visitors need. The economic impact of these goods and services has proven to be especially powerful since many of the businesses in Stockyards City appeal to both residents and tourists.
Working cowboys have always depended on their gear, and they originally came to the Stockyards to see their equipment needs met. Today, visitors can watch these skilled craftsmen at work creating prize saddles, belts, hats, boots and other accessories. These experiences give visitors something to plan their trip to the Stockyards around, which also giving them plenty of options when it comes to authentic gear, food, and much more.
Numerous special events have also become part of the Stockyards as well. These events in include the Longhorn Cattle Drive at the Christmas Parade each December, as well as sidewalk sales between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Additionally, events like “Wines of the West” provide residents and visitors with a specific reason to make a trip out to the Stockyards.
These events and experiences have enabled a sense of authenticity that is unique among tourist attractions in the region. Historic Stockyards City is on the National Register of Historic Places. This authenticity has helped the Stockyards enable a legacy that is as much about the history of the area as it is the monuments and experiences that currently define it.
An Authentic Legacy of the West
The businesses that populate Stockyards City are proud to say that visitors will not be able to find any “tourist” gear or items for purchase in any of their shops. That stance is a reflection of the authentic experiences visitors can have, which range from seeing a cattle auction to buying real boots don’t come from a department store to reading about the genuine history of the area that’s displayed on the monuments. All of it has created an authentic legacy of the west that has and continues to attract visitors from all over.
