
Beckham County, Oklahoma Demographics
According to babyinger, Beckham County, Oklahoma is located in the western part of the state and is bordered by Roger Mills County to the north, Washita County to the east, Custer County to the south, and Greer County to the west. The county covers an area of 1,921 square miles and has a population of 22,119 according to the 2020 US Census. Beckham County is known for its rural beauty as well as its diverse topography which includes rolling hills, flat prairies, and rugged mesas.
The climate in Beckham County is generally mild with hot summers and cold winters. The average high temperature in June is around 90°F while in January it drops down to an average low temperature of 30°F. Average annual precipitation for the county is around 20 inches with May being one of the wettest months receiving over 3 inches of rain on average.
Beckham County has a diverse economy that includes oil production and agriculture as well as tourism due to its proximity to larger cities like Oklahoma City which are just a few hours away. The county also boasts several museums such as the Western Trail Museum which showcases artifacts from early settlers such as Native Americans and cowboys who settled in this area during the late 1800s.
Beckham County’s population has grown steadily over time reaching 22,119 people according to 2020 US Census data showing a growth rate of 2.8% since 2010. The county’s median age is 42 years old with most residents being white (95%) followed by Hispanic or Latino (2%), two or more races (2%), Native American (1%), Asian (1%) and African American (.6%). The median household income for Beckham County residents was $44,739 per year in 2019 with nearly 14% living below poverty level according to US Census data.
Economy of Beckham County, Oklahoma
Beckham County, Oklahoma is located in the western part of the state and has a diverse economy that includes oil production, agriculture, and tourism. The county is known for its rural beauty and diverse topography which includes rolling hills, flat prairies, and rugged mesas. Beckham County is also home to several museums such as the Western Trail Museum which showcases artifacts from early settlers such as Native Americans and cowboys who settled in this area during the late 1800s.
Oil production has been a major part of Beckham County’s economy since it was first discovered in 1927. The county produces more than 3 million barrels of oil per year and employs thousands of local residents making it one of the largest industries in the area. Additionally, natural gas production has become increasingly important over time with Beckham County producing around 5 billion cubic feet of natural gas per year.
Agriculture is another important industry for Beckham County with crops such as wheat, corn, sorghum, grain sorghum, hay, soybeans and cotton being grown on local farms. Cattle ranching is also common in this area with many ranchers raising beef cattle for both commercial markets as well as local consumption.
Tourism has become increasingly popular in Beckham County due to its proximity to larger cities like Oklahoma City which are just a few hours away. There are plenty of attractions here that keep visitors entertained including Uart’s Opera House which hosts various live performances throughout the year. In addition to these attractions, there are also several outdoor recreation activities such as camping, fishing and hiking that can be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
Beckham County’s diverse economy helps to provide employment opportunities for local residents while providing an attractive destination for tourists looking to experience all that this region has to offer.
Education in Beckham County, Oklahoma
According to Topschoolsintheusa, Beckham County, Oklahoma is home to several educational institutions that offer quality learning opportunities for local residents. The county is served by the Sayre Public School District which includes Sayre High School, Sayre Middle School, and Sayre Elementary School. Additionally, there are several independent and parochial schools in the area such as Sacred Heart Catholic School and Beckham County Christian Academy.
Higher education opportunities can be found at Southwestern Oklahoma State University which is located in nearby Weatherford. This university offers a variety of bachelor’s degree programs in areas such as business, education, engineering, and health sciences. Additionally, students can pursue master’s degrees in education or business administration as well as doctoral programs in physical therapy or nursing practice.
For those who are unable to attend college on campus due to work or family commitments, there are also a number of online learning options available. Southwestern Oklahoma State University offers an online undergraduate degree completion program that allows students to complete their bachelor’s degree without ever having to step foot onto campus. There are also a variety of other online programs offered through the university such as master’s degrees in business administration or nursing practice.
In addition to these higher education options, Beckham County also has several libraries that provide access to print and digital materials for both adults and children alike. The county library system includes four branches located throughout the county including libraries in Erick, Sayre, Elk City and Carter. These libraries offer a variety of services including free internet access and computer use for patrons as well as books and other media for checkout.
Beckham County provides quality educational opportunities for its residents both on-campus through higher education institutions like Southwestern Oklahoma State University and off-campus through its public library system. Whether one is looking for an undergraduate degree or simply wants access to books or digital media resources they will find what they need within this county’s educational institutions.
Landmarks in Beckham County, Oklahoma
According to directoryaah, Beckham County, Oklahoma is home to a variety of landmarks that provide a unique insight into the history of the region. One of the most notable landmarks is the historic Beckham County Courthouse located in downtown Elk City. Built in 1922, this building stands as an iconic symbol of justice and progress for the county. The two-story building features a beautiful brick exterior, topped with a red tiled roof and adorned with impressive stone pillars. Inside the courthouse visitors will find an ornate lobby area with marble floors, marble wainscoting, and intricate woodwork throughout.
Another prominent landmark in Beckham County is the National Register of Historic Places-listed Erick Railroad Depot Museum. This museum houses artifacts related to the local railroad industry including photographs, tools, equipment and documents from its heyday in the early 1900s. Visitors can also explore various exhibits that detail life in Beckham County during this period including displays on agriculture, transportation and industry within this region at that time.
For those looking to explore nature within Beckham County there are several parks located throughout the area such as Carter Park which features walking trails, picnic areas and playgrounds for visitors to enjoy year round. Other outdoor attractions include Sayre’s Lake Murray State Park which offers camping sites as well as fishing opportunities on its lakefront location; Elk City Lake which offers swimming areas and boat ramps; and Lakeview Park which has tennis courts, baseball fields and a disc golf course among other amenities for guests to enjoy.
Finally, one cannot forget about one of Beckham County’s most beloved landmarks—the Great Salt Plains Wildlife Refuge located just outside of Cherokee City. This refuge is home to hundreds of species of birds including ducks, geese, owls and hawks among other wildlife making it an ideal spot for bird watching or simply taking in some fresh air while exploring nature at its finest.
Beckham County is filled with unique landmarks that offer visitors an opportunity to explore its rich history while also enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking or camping in some of its many parks or bird watching at The Great Salt Plains Wildlife Refuge. Whether you are looking for educational experiences or recreational activities there is something for everyone within this county’s boundaries making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking adventure or relaxation alike.