LINCOLN COUNTY

History of Lincoln County

Lincoln County, located in central Oklahoma, has a rich and diverse history shaped by its early settlers, agricultural roots, and evolving communities. Originally part of the Sac and Fox, Iowa, and Kickapoo tribal lands, the area opened to settlement during the Land Run of September 22, 1891. At that time it was known as County A within Oklahoma Territory.
In 1893, residents voted to rename the county Lincoln County in honor of President Abraham Lincoln. Early growth was driven by farming, cattle ranching, and the expansion of the railroad, which fueled the development of towns such as Chandler, Stroud, Prague, and Meeker.
Chandler was established as the county seat and quickly became a hub of commerce and government. Despite a devastating tornado in 1897 and several significant fires, the community rebuilt and continued to thrive. Many of the county’s historic buildings from the early 1900s still stand today and contribute to its charm and identity.
Over the years, Lincoln County has maintained its strong agricultural heritage while embracing new industries, transportation corridors, and community-centered growth. Its central location—between Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and Shawnee—continues to make it an important part of Oklahoma’s economic and cultural landscape.