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The Land Run of 1889
On April 22, 1889, tens of thousands of excited Victorian-era land
seekers lined the borders of the Unassigned Lands of central Oklahoma-hoping that they would be one of the fortunate few to
acquire land in the first of five land runs in Oklahoma. The stakes were high as many of the aspirants had quit their
jobs or sold everything they owned to get here. Cavalry troops patrolled the borders and interior with hopes of keeping
out illegal early settlers-the Sooners.
At 12:00 noon, the roar of pistols along the borders signaled the
start of the mad rush! People dashed from the starting lines from horses, wagons, carriages, trains, bicycles or by
foot, striving to be part of the lucky one-third who would eventually receive land. By nightfall, Guthrie had grown
from a sparsely inhabited patch of prairie and timber above Cottonwood Creek to a bustling tent city of over 10,000 land claimants
and businessmen. Guthrie was one of two towns (the other being Kingfisher) that maintained a U.S. Government Land Office
where claims could be confirmed, contested, or lost. Guthrie became the territorial capital until Oklahoma statehood
in 1907, and the first state capital until 1910.
Every April, the Guthrie 89er Committee and the American Legion LeBron
Post #58 sponsor an annual 89er Celebration that commemorates the spirit of the Land Run of 1889. Activities include
a chuck wagon feed, a parade, and the annual carnival with rides and attractions. While in town, visitors can peruse numerous
museums, shops or parks. Come to Guthrie and experience the spirit of the Run!
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