Unveiling the True Founders of Woodward, Oklahoma

Have you ever pondered the authenticity of the tales woven into the fabric of your hometown?

Strolling through the familiar streets of Woodward, Oklahoma, one might feel the pulse of daily life, yet beneath lies a narrative seldom told.

What if the widely accepted story of Woodward's founding is merely a fragment of a more intricate truth?

In a world where official histories are often passed down unchallenged, there's an undeniable allure in uncovering the deeper, more personal stories that have shaped our community.

Established in 1887, Woodward's origins are commonly attributed to its strategic location at the junction of the Fort Reno Military Road and the Southern Kansas Railway, a subsidiary of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad.

This positioning on the south bank of the North Canadian River transformed it into a pivotal shipping point, facilitating the provisioning of Fort Supply and serving as a hub for cattle grazed in the Cherokee Outlet.

However, the true essence of Woodward's founding extends beyond these logistical milestones.

Long before the arrival of European-American settlers, the area was a cherished campsite for the Kiowa, Comanche, Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes.

Boiling Springs, located near present-day Woodward, was particularly significant to these indigenous communities.

In 1838, a notable battle between the Kiowa and Cheyenne tribes unfolded near these springs, underscoring the area's importance in Native American history.

The late 19th century saw intensified conflicts between these tribes and the U.S. Army, with figures like Lieutenant Colonels Alfred Sully and George Armstrong Custer leading expeditions in the region.

These confrontations were emblematic of the broader struggles faced by indigenous peoples during westward expansion.

As settlers established Woodward, the town quickly earned a reputation as one of the most extensive cattle shipping points in the Oklahoma Territory.

The Great Western Cattle Trail intersected the burgeoning town, and by 1893, the Cherokee Outlet was opened to settlers, leading to a significant influx of individuals and families.

Yet, amidst this rapid development, the contributions and histories of the original inhabitants were often overshadowed.

Today, Woodward stands as a testament to resilience and growth, serving as a commercial hub for over 10,000 area residents.

Recent developments, such as the groundbreaking for a new terminal at West Woodward Airport in September 2024, highlight the city's ongoing commitment to progress.

However, as we celebrate these advancements, it's crucial to acknowledge and honor the multifaceted histories that have shaped Woodward.

By delving into the stories beneath our feet, we gain a richer understanding of our community's foundation, recognizing the diverse voices and experiences that have contributed to the tapestry of Woodward, Oklahoma.

In doing so, we not only pay homage to the past but also pave the way for a more inclusive and informed future.

The Forgotten Roots of Woodward: Remembering Shermanville

Before Woodward became the bustling northwest Oklahoma town we know today, there was another settlement — now all but erased from memory.

Its name was Shermanville.

In the mid-1880s, long before Woodward’s official founding, Shermanville existed as a small frontier outpost. It was a rugged settlement carved out by buffalo hunters, cattlemen, and early pioneers, tucked near the banks of the Beaver River. For a time, it was a beacon of opportunity — offering supplies, trade, and shelter to those who dared to brave the harsh plains.

It even had a post office. And in the Wild West, that was no small thing.

But everything changed in 1887.

That year, the Southern Kansas Railway — a subsidiary of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway — extended its tracks through the Oklahoma Panhandle region. Railroad officials, tasked with charting the course of progress, surveyed the land and made a pivotal decision: rather than building through Shermanville, they’d place the new depot just a few miles away.

That depot became the foundation for a brand-new town: Woodward.

Almost overnight, Shermanville was abandoned. Businesses and families relocated to be closer to the railroad. Buildings were moved. Histories were rewritten. And a once-promising community faded into obscurity.

Today, most people have never heard of Shermanville. It doesn’t appear on modern maps. Few historical markers mention it. And yet, its brief but meaningful existence played a critical role in the story of Woodward’s birth.

Shermanville was more than a footnote — it was a foundation.

As we celebrate Woodward’s vibrant history, it’s worth

remembering the people and places that came before. The true founders weren’t just railroad executives and city planners. They were the unnamed men and women who braved the wilderness, staked their claims, and built lives — even if their town never made it into the spotlight.

So the next time you walk the streets of downtown Woodward, take a moment to imagine the dustier, quieter paths just a few miles away. Where a forgotten settlement once stood. And where Oklahoma history was quietly — and courageously — born.