Founding the Town - Durant, OK - Oklahoma Historical Markers on Waymarking.com

The Durant Streetscape Program has endeavored to preserve and exhibit the town's history. On of their projects was Historic Market Square which has several monuments and dedications to people and events in Durant's history. This plaque is mounted on the base of the sculpture of Dixon Durant, founder of Durant. It stands near the actual Square Cafe which is on display nearby.

The plaque has a photo of downtown Durant in its early days. The story reads as follows:

The Square Cafe was constructed in the early 1900's as public restrooms since the area of town was the hub of trade for Bryan County. As the Square became a destination, a cafe was operated in the building for many years. Market Square was one of the few places farmers could sell their produce, and it brought sellers and customers together from all over the county. The original central business district has remained a vital part of the community through the years. The Durant Main Street Program was established in June 1997 to revitalize Downtown Durant and preserve this historic area. (photo of early downtown) The Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railway Company (M-K-T or "Katy") was granted permission to extend its lines south through Indian Territory. In November 1872, an old wheel-less boxcar was placed by the M-K-T where Main Street crosses the railroad and became Durant Station from which the new community would grow. On Christmas Day 1872 the line was completed across the Red River. In 1873, Dixon Durant founded Durant and erected the first wooden store building on the east side of the boxcar depot. By 1912, three trunk lines crossed through the city. The railroad assured Durant's place as a major marketing point for the area.

County: Bryan County, OK Record Address:: Market Square - N. First Avenue Durant, OK US 74701 Rate the Site: Sponsor (Who put it there): Durant Main Street Web site if available: Not listed Date Erected: Not listed

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