For over 90 years, Loftis & Wetzel Insurance has offered insurance and risk management solutions to protect the assets of individuals, families, farms, and businesses. As Independent Agents, we can search the market through our representation of major National and Regional Insurance Companies. Our experienced team of agents write all kinds of insurance through our four office locations including Blackwell, Ponca City, Stillwater and Edmond.
Welcome TO MY HOMETOWN!
My town has changed since I graduated from Blackwell High School in the 1960’s. We lost major industries after the F5 tornado in 1955 and many “mom and pop” stores closed on Main Street. However, the past few years have brought renewed enthusiasm and development in my community.
Evidence of this renewed interest can be seen in the passage of a bond issue to totally renovate the high school and a penny sales tax voted by the people for our hospital remodel.
The Top of Oklahoma Historical Society Museum has been refurbished both inside and out, and the Club Room which is part of the museum, has had a total makeover.
My City is on the move. Our council members are forward thinking. The past is the past and we want to look forward to the future. The City has repaved numerous streets. A second fire station near the Industrial Park has been purchased and updated. Our fire department recently hosted the first structural collapse class outside of Oklahoma City and Tulsa and the drone we purchased has already served us well. In the last 2 years we have seen 18 new homes built and 1 duplex.
Our Olympic –size swimming pool added new diving boards and a slide and the splash pad is a hit with the little ones. The professional skate park near the Youth Center sees lots of use, as does our 9-hole municipal golf course.
Even large cities seldom have a space dedicated to youth activities. Our Youth Center offers a summer arts program as well as
fun activities all year long.
Our beautiful library which was built in the Carnegie style offers programs for both youth and adults. In addition we have a number of active churches with many offering outreach opportunities.
Our Industrial Park has 16 viable and diverse industries. The city council recently added 645 acres into the cooperative city limits which is part of our industrial park expansion. We know this will help us attract new businesses since we are located at exit 222 on I35 It’s an hour’s drive north to Wichita and 95 miles south to Oklahoma City. We also have an uncontrolled airfield with a 3500 foot runway just 5 miles southwest of the city.
My small Oklahoma town has many wonderful things to offer: numerous parks with walking trails, a sense of community, the idea that you know your neighbors, a week long county fair, and the opportunity to continue your education at a career technology center or a land grant community college nearby.
So follow our Barn Quilt Trail, shoot a round of golf or take a look back at our history in the amazing 1913 museum building. I relish Blackwell’s positive family environment. I want people to visit and perhaps decide to call Blackwell home.
Come join me!
FROM THE MAYOR’S DESK
Pat Hullet Mayor of Blackwell
MEET THE CHAMBER
Noel Black Executive Director coordinator@ blackwellchamber.org 580-363-4195
BLACKWELL
BLACKWELL CHAMBER of COMMERCE
BLACKWELLLeadership
Leadership Blackwell is a twelve session hands-on experience in community and economic development, education, healthcare, local state and tribal government, and participation as a local citizen leader. Classes begin in September.
If you are interested in participating in the program, please call the Chamber to receive an application or send an email to leadershipblackwell@ gmail.com.
Micki Adams BancFirst Lea Ann Bechtel Associate Member
Sue Hetrick President-Elect Associate Member
Vanessa Freel HMT Tank
Andrew Campbell Blackwell Antique Mall
George Becker President Associate Member
Ben Evans Pioneer Technology Center
Brittany Bryant RCB Bank
Emily Shields Past President Stride Bank
Kayla Green Survivor Resource Network
Board Members
Sherry Lessert Kay Electric
Brianna Turner Blackwell Industrial Authority
Gerry Magin Blackwell Public Schools
Shawn Haskins Ex-Officio Blackwell Public Schools
Abby Montoya Hutton Pharmacy
Jerry Wieland Ex-Officio City of Blackwell
Traci Hanebrink City of Blackwell Administration
Talyn Spence Blackwell Public Library
Terrie Grell Associate Member
Deidra Sixkiller Associate Member
Megan Holden Associate Member
Cody Tabor Pioneer Technology Center
Advanced treatment for BPH!
Aquablation®
HELPFUL NUMBERS
CITY OF BLACKWELL
Utility / Bill
580-363-7250
Event Center/Fairgrounds Rental
580-363-7250
Police Department Non Emergency Number
580-363-5490
Blackwell Public Library
580-363-1809
After Hours Utility Electric Emergency 580-363-2121
Blackwell Memorial Pool
580-363-7272
BLACKWELL SCHOOLS
Board of Education
580-363-2570
Blackwell High School
580-363-3553
Blackwell Middle School
580-363-2100
Blackwell Elementary School
580-363-0118
NEWS OUTLETS
Blackwell Journal-Tribune
KAY COUNTY OFFICIALS
Kay County Assessor
Janelle Leaming 580-362-2565
Kay County Clerk
Tammy Reese 580-362-2537
Kay County Court Clerk
Marilee Thornton 580-362-3350
Kay County Election Board 580-362-2130
Emergency Management
Daniel Hesson 580-362-3825
Kay County District 1
Jack Godberson 580-765-3237
Kay County District 2
Jason Shanks 580-362-2402
Kay County District 3
Jeff Kreger 580-363-0160
Kay County Sheriff Steve Kelly 580-362-3250
Kay County District Attorney
Brian Hermanson 580-362-1128
Community Resources
TOP of OKLAHOMA HistoricalMuseumSociety
“Icouldn’t imagine what an amazing museum this was going to be when we began our road trip,” said a recent visitor from Stillwater.
She’s right. The Top of Oklahoma Historical Society Museum is remarkable for its rich history, impressive size, and diverse exhibits. Unlike many small-town museums, it is a vibrant hub of education and entertainment in Northern Oklahoma.
The museum’s building, originally known as the Electric Park Pavilion, was built in 1913. Its dome, lit with electric lights, and 800-seat auditorium made it a community and entertainment destination for early settlers, many of whom still used kerosene lamps. The pavilion hosted service groups, symphonies, plays, and even boxing matches. By the 1950s, the building had fallen into disrepair, but thanks to a dedicated
group of citizens, it was saved from demolition. In the 1970s, it became the Top of Oklahoma Historical Society Museum, housing artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Blackwell’s rich history.
The City of Blackwell has made significant investments in preserving the building, including a $500,000 renovation in 2020 to restore the roof and exterior. With 11,000 square feet of exhibit space, the museum boasts collections ranging from Native American artifacts to military memorabilia, and from early school artifacts to medical instruments.
The museum’s lone paid employee, director Melissa Hudson, works alongside a dedicated volunteer board. Together, they’ve digitized the museum’s collections, securing $60,000 in grants to inventory and photograph every artifact. Exhibits
like the military room, Native American room, and tornado room provide deep insights into local history.
The museum continues to evolve, with interactive displays and virtual reality being planned for the Grand Room’s renovation. It remains a lively, family-friendly tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the world.
The Museum’s barn quilt was the first installation of the Top of Oklahoma Barn Quilt Trail.
In only minutes the 1955 Blackwell tornado destroyed a great part of the east side of town. The tornado room tells the story of the F5 tornado.
Dating from the days of the city settlement, the museum has a collection of quilts.
Part of the old post office will be featured in the new Grand Room exhibit, “Home on the Plains”.
HISTORY OF BLACKWELL
May 25, 1955
The TORNADO of 1955
An EF-5 tornado decimated a major portion of the city. Smashing through the east side of Blackwell and eventually ending up in Udall, Kansas, the tornado wiped out homes, buildings, and businesses, claiming nearly two dozen lives and leaving hundreds injured.
The tornado hit an already weather-beaten Blackwell at approximately 9:25 p.m.
The damage was unparalleled.
Surveyors said that 85 structures were “damaged but occupied, ” 70 were “extensively damaged” but remained “repairable,” and 190 were “completely destroyed.”
Broken water lines left homes without drinking water. At the same time, few other sources of water were
readily available: consumption of river water, city leaders warned, could cause typhoid fever.
Two of Blackwell’s biggest industries were reduced to rubble. The Hazel-Atlas Glass Factory was demolished, and it would never reopen. That cost the city nearly 200 jobs. The Acme Foundry was also destroyed, though it would eventually be rebuilt. In total, the estimated cost of the damage was $12.5 million.
The May 25 tornado killed and injured hundreds of people across the region.
Some say the death toll later rose to 21. Around 200 more people were injured.
The city’s water distribution system was wrecked, and there was no water pressure on the east side of
town. And to make matters worse, the Chikaskia River was flooding. After the tornado dissipated, city employees restored public utilities. By the end of the week, the city’s phone, electrical and gas systems were in operation again.
In the following days, National Guard crews arrived with dump trucks to help clean up debris. Martial law was declared, and fire and police departments from across the area descended upon the storm-wrecked town.
Aid packages for local businesses were offered, and organizations like the Red Cross provided shelter to those displaced by the twister. One by one, homes were rebuilt. For at least 29 city blocks, a new Blackwell was born.
Native Americans
Oklahoma’s rich Indigenous history is deeply embedded in Blackwell’s cultural landscape. The Blackwell Public Library offers valuable insights into this history, featuring resources on the Chilocco Boarding School and a range of books about northern Oklahoma tribes in its nonfiction historical section and the “Oklahoma Room.” This room houses first editions and authentic artwork, providing a comprehensive look at the state’s early days.
One notable figure in this history is W.S. Prettyman, a celebrated early western photographer who also served as Blackwell’s mayor. Known for his powerful images of the Land Run, Prettyman’s work is showcased in prestigious institutions like The British Museum and the Gilcrease Museum. His dedication to documenting Native American life in its “natural state,” without the influence of white settlers, makes his work a critical record of the period.
Prettyman opened a successful photography studio in Blackwell in 1893, but he sold it in 1905 and left behind his extensive collection of glass plate negatives. Today, duplicates of his photography are held at the Top of Oklahoma Museum, with the originals at Wichita State University’s Ablah Library.
The Chilocco Indian School also played a significant role in local history. After the devastating tornado of May 1955, which heavily impacted Blackwell and Udall, Kansas, Chilocco’s National Guard division assisted by setting up shelters and food stations.
The Top of Oklahoma Museum further enriches the local cultural heritage with original artwork by Alice Souligny, a Cherokee and Delaware artist. Souligny’s paintings, such as “HAKO,” displayed at the Kennedy Center, and “Mandan Buffalo Warrior,” vividly portray Native American legends and historical events. The museum also features authentic moccasins, instruments, and weapons from Oklahoma’s Indigenous peoples, offering a tangible connection to the state’s diverse cultural history.
City of Blackwell
Blackwell offers small-town charm that embraces the traditions of the past while boldy carving out an avenue to the future.
Blackwell Event Center
The Fairgrounds on south Main Street host several community events throughout the year including the annual Kay County Free Fair the second week of September.
The Blackwell Event Center is a 15,000 square foot building available for rent for weddings, reunions, sporting events, concerts or anything else you may need. It includes a sound system, tables and chairs, a stage, projector and screen, a kitchen area with a serving window, ice machine, refrigerator, restrooms and a garage door for easy access moving in and out decorations.
Blackwell Police & Fire Deptartments and Emergency Management
Chief of Police
Jay Brewer
224 W. Blackwell
580-363-5490
The Blackwell Police Department is committed to delivering professional, transparent unbiased law enforcement services in a compassionate manner to protect the citizens of Blackwell.
Fire Chief
Cory Hanebrink
580-363-5490
chanebrink@blackwellok.org
Assistant Fire Chief: Seth Brown
The Fire Department responds to fire, emergency medical and various rescue calls. The department is part
of the Homeland Security Team and they are a Hazard Response Team. The department is also a Regional Intermediate Response Unit.
Emergency Manager
Cory Hanebrink
221 W. Blackwell
580-363-0300
Emergency Management is responsible for disaster preparedness, public safety communications and safety training for the City of Blackwell. This office is also responsible for maintaining cooperative relationships with all City departments, City officials; along with state and federal agencies, and the general public.
Iwas born and raised here in Blackwell, America’s Hometown.
From a young age, I admired the passion and dedication that the older generation had for Blackwell. As a young man, I had pride for my community, I had “Maroon Spirit”- dedication- for my school but it wasn’t until I came back that I truly understood it all.
Coming back to Blackwell in 2014, I could still go into Bob’s for the best burger and salad around. I could still see Blackwell’s history from the dirt roads of the past to the paved streets of the future in the Top of Oklahoma Museum. The Fairgrounds still drew thousands every September for the annual Kay County Free Fair. The grass was still greener than anywhere else at the Blackwell Golf Course.
Now, 10 years later, everything has changed and nothing has, all at once.
Now, more than ever, Blackwell is embracing the close-knit community traditions of the past while continually hurtling into the future.
Off of I-35, visitors catch a glimpse of our newly renovated hotels, watching the traffic come and go from our restaurants- the afternoon rush at Los Potros probably driving most of the hungry families out there.
Going down Doolin, offices, hotels, shops, and retail businesses guide guest and local alike to the heart of America’s Hometown: Main Street.
Our Main Street is more beautiful than ever- shining
Jerry Wieland Blackwell City Manager
jwieland@blackwellok.org
580-363-7250
silver street lights guide visitors along freshly repaved roads as they wave to passers-by, walking along our new sidewalks as they get their watches checked at Gose Jewelers or grab a bite at Prairie Smoke or The Lunch Box. Shoppers check out the window displays at the Blackwell Antique Mall or The Good Buy Shoppe, or maybe they’re walking out of Redneck Quilt’n with a new shirt, or getting their hair done.
Maybe it’s Homecoming, the 4th of July, or Christmas where hundreds gather along the street to watch the floats go by. Maybe it’s the Fair, now going on for over a hundred years with livestock shows, food, rides, and live music.
Every weekend is a holiday or a celebration in Blackwell. Every day is a chance of fun and adventure.
Every day, I am more and more proud to call Blackwell home. Hopefully, you will be too.
City Departments
STREET & PARKS DEPARTMENT
The City of Blackwell Street & Parks Department maintains our city parks, Memorial Pool, and the care of city properties and cleaning our streets. They are also responsible for repaving and resurfacing our roads, filling potholes, and assisting other departments where necessary.
BLACKWELL PUBLIC POWER
The Blackwell Public Power Electrical Department helps to maintain our city’s electricity. During severe weather, the department is out all hours of the night assisting with outages and repairs where necessary.
WATER DEPARTMENT
The City of Blackwell Water Department, with it’s own individual branches, helps to maintain our city’s water supply and waterlines, constantly helping to maintain our water drinkability, flow, sewage control, and more.
CODE ENFORCEMENT
The City of Blackwell’s Code Enforcement ensures the beauty and standard of our town as well as doing inspections on businesses to make sure that our merchants and citizens are protected.
UTILITY DEPARTMENT
The City of Blackwell’s Utility Department is responsible for collecting payments as well as taking work orders for departments like if a street light is out or a water leak is sighted.
CITY ADMINISTRATION
The City of Blackwell’s Administrative Office is where the City Manager, City Clerk, and Deputy Clerk all carry out the duties of the city at a governmental level.
Blackwell City Council
Mayor - Pat Hullet
Ward 1 - Richard Braden
Ward 2 - Karey Henderson
Ward 3 - Scott Mowen
Ward 4 - Todd Murphy
We are proud to serve our neighbors in Blackwell & across Kay County.
Our impact:
(in just 8 years)
(in just 5 years)
Statue of Liberty
In the 1950’s, Blackwell Memorial Pool became host to one of 200 replicas of the Statue of Liberty placed by the Boy Scouts of America throughout the United States of America.
These statues, purchased by the Kansas City Boy Scouts of America, were erected as part of the Boy Scout’s 40th Anniversary project to “Strengthen the Arm of Liberty.” They were manufactured by Friedley-Voshardt Co. out of Chicago.
Blackwell Public Library
The Blackwell Public Library provides many services to the citizens of Blackwell including free Wi-Fi, microfilm, fax and copy services. Their book collection provides readers and researchers a plethora of information and entertainment. Also, a great deal of information is available on microfilm. The library provides a summer reading program for children every June.
Blackwell-Tonkawa Municipal Airport
The City of Blackwell and the City of Tonkawa have come together to help this airport thrive. Located off I-35, the airport was established in 1971 and managed by a joint trust. The airport receives up to $150,000 annually for improvements. A runway expansion was completed in 2023 and attracts larger aircraft and new businesses, while the airport also supports emergency medical transport and local agriculture, making it crucial for the region’s growth and development.
Blackwell Municipal Golf Course
The Blackwell Municipal Golf Course is a 9-hole, par 71 Perry Maxwell Design course with putting green, driving range, pro shop, snack bar, club and cart rental, and lessons. This course has a creek flowing through the middle, which comes into play on several holes. If you’re looking to play 18 holes, there are additional sets of tees that can be used. Visit the Blackwell Municipal Golf Course for your next golf outing.
You are LOVED.
Explore Blackwell
Visit The TOP OF OKLAHOMA Barn Quilt Trail
Located in Blackwell and surrounding areas in Kay Co. 50 designs represent the 50 states.
CINCO DE MAYO
Celebrate this fun holiday with food trucks, DJ and games. Special activities for the kids and great door prize giveaways
CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA
There’s no place like home for the holidays, and Blackwell is home to a fantastic Christmas season.
JULY 4 PARADE
Show off your patriotic pride at the annual Blackwell July 4 Parade.
Support the Blackwell Flycatchers, check out the Geo Cache Trail and murals around Blackwell
Barn Quilt Trail
The barn quilt trail, launched in 2018, has become a popular attraction in Blackwell. Over 100 commemorative coins were awarded on opening day, with the Blackwell Area Chamber of Commerce and Blackwell Tourism distributing around 70-75 coins annually since then. More than 300 people have completed the trail, which features 62 barn quilts and 40 geocaches scattered around the area.
Geocachers follow these quilts to earn coins by redeeming codes at the Chamber office on Main Street. Originally, 250 coins were minted. The trail’s popularity is influenced by weather, with higher activity during warmer months.
Pins on a map at the Chamber office show visitors from across the U.S., from North Dakota to Texas, Florida, and Las Vegas. Most traffic comes from nearby cities like Kansas City and Wichita, with visitors enjoying Blackwell’s charm and local businesses.
Morgan Field
MFrom baseball history to Blackwell Flycatchers
organ Field, home to the Blackwell Flycatchers of the Pecos League, is a historic baseball stadium on South Main Street in Blackwell. Once hosting the Blackwell Broncos, a minor league team in the mid-20th century, Morgan Field has deep roots in the town's baseball history. Baseball in Blackwell dates back to 1924 with the "Blackwell Gassers" before the Broncos took over in the 1950s. Today, Morgan Field is used by the Blackwell High School baseball team, while the Flycatchers continue the legacy with their summer season, featuring family-friendly themed nights and events.
Blackwell Tourisim Information Center
Red Carpet Country welcomes visitors with the I-35 Tourism Information Center, located just before the Blackwell exit. Recently remodeled, the center offers free travel guides and brochures, a gift shop with books on Native American history, urban legends, and more. The Oklahoma Tourism logo shines on a striking dark wood structure, featuring an outdoor seating area and a monument to the Oklahoma Fishing Trail, which boasts over 177 fish species and extensive shoreline.
Photos and info courtesy of the Top of Oklahoma Historical Society Museum.
SOONER STATE PATTERN WORKS
Rick Buellesfeld started working at Baxa Pattern Works owned by Stanley Baxa in the early 1980s. It was a small pattern works business next to the train tracks on Padon. After years of learning the trade and how to operate the business, Rick had the opportunity to purchase the business when Stanley retired.
For 35 years, Rick has grown the business to what is now known as Sooner State Pattern Works. The 12,000 square foot facility is located in the Industrial Park. They have 12 dedicated employees, with over 175 years of combined foundry and pattern making experience. Rick also works alongside his children, Gayle and Randy.
Sooner State Pattern Works not only works with our local foundries, but they also have customers all over the United States. Each job is custom and can take hours to months to complete. The size and price of patterns vary and seldom are two jobs the same.
INDUSTRIAL
If it is technologically possible, they can do it at Sooner State Pattern Works. Their goal is to deliver the product on time, offering services at affordable prices, and to meet or exceed the specifications of the customer. Currently, they run 5 CNC machines, a FARO Arm, and a 3D Printer.
This Blackwell High School alum has lived and worked his entire life in Blackwell. This place is his home, and he is proud to have a thriving business in Blackwell.
COMMERCIAL METALS COMPANY CMC
The CMC Facility located in Blackwell, Oklahoma, currently produces several product lines for Tensar Geogrid under a contract manufacturing arrangement. Commercial Metals Company and its subsidiaries manufacture, recycle and fabricate steel and metal products and provide related materials and services through a network of facilities.
HMT FABRICATION
The HMT fabrication facilites are turnkey shops that provide design, manufacturing, engineering services, and outstanding customer support for all aboveground storage tank appurtenances, energy, and maritime industry.
STIMULATION PUMP SERVICES
Stimulation Pumping Services are strategically placed to provide acidizing and pressure pumping services to Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas and Texas. With a unique blend of acidizing and fracturing equipment, we are set up for both vertical and horizontal completions. Utilizing experienced engineering staff, top industry technology and old-fashioned common sense, SPS prides itself not only in meeting the industry standard but setting the standard.
Park
L.A. BOILER WORKS
L.A. Boiler Works continues to be a leader in the manufacture of tank heads, manholes, handholes, weld caps, and hinged closures. The company counts among its direct and indirect clientele nearly all major industries throughout the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. The company also has clients in England, Australia, Brazil, and the Middle East.
SOUTHWEST CUPID CUPID INTIMATES
Southwest Cupid creates shapewear, lingerie, and women’s products to be shipped out globally. Their brands include Naomi & Nicole, TC, and Cupid.
CFM BLACKWELL
Blackwell’s Casting, Fabricating, and Machining (CFM) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kice Industries, Inc., started in Blackwell in 1975 when Kice Industries built a foundry to provide gray and ductile castings to satisfy the company’s needs. In addition to providing castings for Kice, CFM Foundry now serves a growing number of outside customers. They provide services to infrastructure and utilities, mining, industrial, and energy industries.
EDITORIAL
PONCA CITY CHAMBER - 2024
DONNA REID COLDWELL BANKER
HEALTHCARE Services
844-458-2100
Blackwell Family Medicine is a group practice located in Blackwell, OK that specializes in family medicine. Dr. Paul Briggs, M.D. and Samuel Hague, M.D.
BLACKWELL DENTISTRY BLACKWELL FAMILY MEDICINE
Blackwell Dentistry offers several top of the line dental services at affordable plans and prices including preventive attention, same-day emergency appointments, top-quality restorative solutions, and gentle children’s care.
Welcome Home...
Blackwell o ers small-town of the past while boldly
Blackwell Public Parks Business
From an Olympic-sized pool to nature trails, picnic spots, playgrounds and creeks to explore, you’ll nd the outdoor escape you’re looking for at one of Blackwell’s unique parks.
Public Safety
Police Department and Blackwell Fire Departmetn are ready at a moment’s notice to serve and protect the City of Blackwell.
Blackwell Industrial Park our community into the vibrant business community, services to satisfy your
to Blackwell, Oklahoma.
small-town charm that embraces the traditions carving out an avenue to the
Business and Industry
Park is home to businesses that push the future. Blackwell also features a community, with many local shops and your needs. Local power means local control and ownership. It works for the bene t of you and your town – giving you a voice. Local power communities reinvest a percentage of you utility bill goes back into your town – supporting emergency responders, parks and roads.
If you’re looking for a cultural experience, Blackwell has you covered! We are proud of our heritage and our artistic community is unmatched.
The City of Blackwell o ers the Nixle Community Alert Noti cation System to those who live, work and commute through Blackwell. This free service will provide subscribers with real time alerts, weather advisories, community information via email, text or webpage. Text 74631 to 888777 to subscribe.
BLACKWELL MAROONS Homecoming
Coming home in Blackwell is unlike anywhere else in the world.
Blackwell’s Homecoming, held in late-September / early-October, welcomes back graduates of Blackwell High School who come back from across the United States and the world to visit their hometown and alma mater.
In the weeks leading up to Homecoming, various cleanup events are held through town where volunteers come together to clean up Blackwell’s Main Street, parks, schools, and buildings.
The hotels in town also offer discounts and special rates for those coming to town for the event- but you better hurry, because these rooms sell out weeks, even months, in advance.
The Blackwell Journal-Tribune, our local newspaper since 1915, also runs a special Homecoming section in that week’s paper.
Homecoming Day kicks off with coffee in the Blackwell High School Study Center for the returning grades before a mid-day assembly where Maroon Spirit and Mrs. BHS are honored, as well as their runners-up.
Maroon Spirit and Miss BHS are time-honored titles at Blackwell High School which recognize a senior boy and girl with prestigious titles which represent honor, courage, commitment, and integrity. These select individuals are immortalized at the Top of Oklahoma Historical Society Museum as well as on the Maroon Spirit & Miss BHS mural located at the Maroon Park on Main Street next to The Lunch Box.
Following the assembly, Blackwell hosts one of our biggest parades of the year with the Homecoming Parade that goes down Main Street.
The night consists of the Homecoming Football Game and reunion parties across town including the local Elks Lodge as well as Veterans of Foreign Wars bar.
On behalf of the Blackwell Board of Education, administration, and staff, I welcome you to Blackwell and Blackwell Public Schools (BPS). We are dedicated to providing a high-quality education in a safe and nurturing environment, fostering life-long learning and student success. Our comprehensive educational programs are delivered by an exceptional professional staff committed to academic excellence and preparing students to be productive citizens.
BPS continues to excel academically, with students showing remarkable results in standardized testing across various
subjects. In addition to academics, our schools offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, from athletics and the arts to aviation, agriculture, and community service, promoting teamwork, creativity, and leadership. These experiences enrich students’ education and prepare them for future success. By supporting and developing our students, we contribute to both their success and the future of our community. Visit www.blackwell.k12.ok.us to learn more about Blackwell Public Schools.
Sincerely,
Shawn Haskins, Superintendent
Blackwell Public School District
The Blackwell Public School System has changed a lot over the last several year with many advancements that have brought our schools into the future- and beyond.
BLACKWELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Built in 2011, this facility is located to the west of town and houses Blackwell’s Pre-K through 5th-grade students. Safe and secure, this school has 3 playgrounds, a massive cafeteria, and a huge gymnasium as well as a music room, library, art room, and other terrific amenities for fostering Blackwell’s young minds.
BLACKWELL MIDDLE SCHOOL
This 3-story building houses Blackwell’s 6-8th grade students. Complete with a sprawling gym, a kitchen-classroom, a library, and their own E-Sports team and class, Blackwell Middle School has an extensive list of extra curricular clubs and activities to shape our young adults into the leaders of tomorrow.
BLACKWELL HIGH SCHOOL
Blackwell High School has been completely renovated and modernized thanks to community support. BHS now boasts award-winning programs in vocal, art, FFA, band, and sports, along with a new theatre, band and vocal rooms, updated classrooms, a kitchen-classroom, cafeteria, Study Center, and more..
NOC Tonkawa, located just 10 miles south of Blackwell, has several award-winning programs including nursing, digital media & film, art, theatre, livestock, and broadcasting.
Blackwell is located between several higher-learning and vocational training centers including:
THE UNIVERSITY CENTER OF PONCA CITY
Perfect for students wishing to complete their Bachelors and Masters programs, The University Center is 17 miles southeast of Blackwell and offers satellite classes from both Northern Oklahoma College as well as Northwestern Oklahoma State University (NWOSU) in Alva.
PIONEER TECHNOLOGY CENTER
This vocational school, located 17 miles southeast if Blackwell in Ponca City, offers several prestigious programs in automotive, cosmetology, cooking, criminal justice, and welding to name only a few.
Blackwell Churches
ASSEMBLY OF GOD
Bethesda Assembly of God
115 West Oklahoma
Pastor Lonnie Rutherford
Grace Church
4825 White Ave, South. Blackwell
Bill & Tammy McKissick, Min
BAPTIST
First Baptist Church
123 S. 1st Street, Blackwell 580-363-2495
Pastor Mark Meador
Immanuel Baptist Church
1600 S. 13th St.
580-363-5058
Matt Smith, Minister
Sunday Bible Fellowship at 9:00 AM
Sunday Morning Worship at 10:30 AM (Nursery Provided)
Wednesday IBC Kids and IBC Student Ministry at 6:00 PM
Free Will Baptist Church 6th and Oklahoma
Josh Sloan, Minister
Iglesia Bautista
1600 S. 13th St.
Jose Montiel Hararious, Minister
CATHOLIC
St. Joseph Catholic Church 3rd and Bridge
580-363-0441
Rev. Balaswamy Bathini
Sunday: 9:00 AM, 2:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:30 PM
Thursday: 5:30 PM
Saturday: 5:30 PM, 7:00 PM
Holy Day: 5:30 PM
CHRISTIAN
First Christian Church
306 E. Coolidge
580-363-2532
Minister Jeff Koch
Sunday School 9:30AM Service @ 10:30AM
Christ’s Church
1203 S. 6th
Pastor Harold Hutchins
CHURCH OF CHRIST
Church of Christ
1035 S. Main St.
Lanny Jobe, Minister
LATTER-DAY SAINT
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
13th and Coolidge
Richard Donaldson, Pres
LUTHERAN
Trinity Lutheran Church 1st and Vinnedge
580-363-4026
Pastor James Bozarth
Sunday School & Bible Class 9:15AM
Divine Service with Holy Communion 10:45 AM
St. John’s Lutheran of Newkirk and Blackwell
101. N. Magnolia, Newkirk
METHODIST
Blackwell Methodist Church
524 W. Coolidge
580-363-4080
NAZARENE
First Church of the Nazarene 218 S. A Street
580-363-0710
Pastor Josie Busby
Sunday school 9:00 A.M.
Family Worship 10:00 A.M
Meal, Devotion, Fellowship 6:00- 7:30 P.M. Each Wednesday
PENTECOSTAL
First Gospel House of Prayer
900 S. 9th
John Jack, Min
PRESBYTERIAN
First Presbyterian Church
204 South A Street
580-363-1460
Pastor Mike Dvorak
Sunday School 9:45AM
Sunday Service 10:45AM
OTHER
Blackwell Tabernacle 1013 North 9th St.
580-363-2734
Minister Robert O. Johnson
Wellspring Christian 210 W. Blackwell
580-363-1874
West on Highway 11
Immanuel Baptist Church, Blackwell
Rewarding Teachers, Educating Students
Improving Students - One Grant at a Time
How The Grant Process Works
Each school year, Spring and Fall Grant Rounds are held. Faculty and staff apply for grants by filling out the application online, printing it out, and then turning it in to the Principals of their respective school. Once the grant applications are completed, they are reviewed and awarded by the Allocations Committee of The Blackwell Public School Foundation. The number of grants are funded based on their merits and the funds available for that Grant Round.
Become a Bell Ringer
Since The Blackwell Public School Foundation was formed in 1988, the tradition of the Bell Ringer has been ongoing.
A Bell Ringer is an individual, business, organization, memorial, estate, or alumni class that donates $1,000.00 or more in a year to the Blackwell Public School Foundation. These donors are recognized at The Hall of Fame Banquet, which is great event, annually. Each Bell Ringer receives a one-of-a-kind, numbered, hand-crafted bell symbolic of their support.
Giving to the Foundation
We hope that you will consider giving to The Blackwell Public School Foundation. We accept donations of any size and all are appreciated. Because of how we structure our investments, your gift will continue giving for as long as the Foundation lasts. There are many ways you can contribute to the future success of Blackwell students and to support the school that helped you succeed. Here are a few ways you can help:
Wills, Trusts, Beneficiary Designations, and Special Gifts
To learn more about the Foundation, feel free to contact us. We love hearing from the community. Give us a call, send us an email, or come by to visit.
The Great
AGRICULTURE
Blackwell’s economy has long been rooted in agriculture and the oil and gas industry. From 1897 to 1899, rail lines built by the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway and the St. Louis and San Francisco Railway transformed Blackwell into a key agricultural trade center, shipping wheat, corn, flour, hogs, and cattle.
Today, Blackwell’s agricultural industry remains strong, driven by wheat, cattle, hay, soybeans, corn, and milo.
SOUTHERN PLAINS LIVESTOCK AUCTION
Southern Plains Auction House offers a Monday auction starting at 12:00 noon and amenities including excellent livestock feeding capabilities, highly accredited and respected veterinary hospital adjoining the market property, the Sale Barn Cafe, a hidden gem in Blackwell which is only open on Mondays during the auction. The cafe offers breakfast starting at 6:00 am till 10:30 am. Starting at 10:30 lunch is served
Situated in a region recognized for its unique geographical features which include access to some of the nation’s top wheat pasture production as well as access to exceptional grasslands, Southern Plains Livestock Auction is located one mile east of I-35 in Blackwell, Ok. Our central location ensures convenience for both our producers and our buyers.
YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS
OK OKIES 4-H CLUB
Meets the 1st Tuesday of the month at Kay County Farm Bureau, 720 W. Doolin (Blackwell). Cloverbuds at 6:30pm, OK Okies at 7:00pm.
Contact Danielle Burke (405) 612-2529 or email: herefordhillok@gmail.com for more information.
BLACKWELL FFA
FFA is a student organization for high school-aged students interested in agriculture and leadership. “FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.”
Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve.
SInce 1937 Blackwell High School FFA has been leading generations into the future.
Outdoors
PARKS
MEMORIAL PARK
The City of Blackwell has an Olympic-sized public pool open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. In the 1950’s, Blackwell Memorial Pool became host to one of 200 replicas of the Statue of Liberty.
1400 S. Main St.
MCCLUNG WALKING AND NATURE TRAIL
This 1-mile trail is split into two. The north section is from the trailhead at Coolidge Ave to Chrysler Ave., running alongside Southwest Boulevard. The second part is from Coolidge to Bagby Park. The terrain is flat, with a hill leading into Bagby.
ZACK HARRISSTRICKLAND PARK
This neighborhood park is perfect for picnics, relaxation, and family fun. The park offers a playground area, basketball court and a covered picnic area.
1000 South 10th St..
TRAPP PARK
This small neighbourhood park is perfect for relaxation and a little peace and quiet. It offers a playground area and slide.
900 North 8th St.
RIVERSIDE PARK
This park has a half mile walking trail, playground equipment for the kids, a baseball/softball practice field, and a three city block wide area of open park lawn.
400 South E. St.
LEGION PARK
Legion Park’s large pavilion area make it a perfect place to hold your event. It offers one of the City’s largest playground areas with plenty of parking, restroom facilities, walking trails, a basketball court and a beach volleyball court.
400 S. Legion Drive.
BEATTY RODGERS PARK
This park displays a vintage Santa Fe three car train complete with engine for park goers to view. Beatty Rodgers Park also has playground equipment, picnic tables and a small pavilion, as well as one of Blackwell’s first Basketball Courts.
200 S. 3rd St.
BAGBY PARK
Surrounded by rock bottomed creeks. This picturesque little park is located in the heart of Blackwell. What this park lacks in size it makes up for in it’s quaint setting. New playground equipment is flanked by picnic tables.
400 Southwest Blvd.
Beatty Rodgers Park
Memorial Park
Legion Park
Memorial Park Pool
CALENDAR of Events
America’s Hometown hosts several events through the year, and new annual festivities are being added every year as our community continues to grow.
JANUARY
Wrestling Tournament
FEBRUARY
Chamber of Commerce Banquet
Blackwell Fraternal Order of Police Annual FatherDaughter Dance
Local and County
Livestock Show
MARCH
Pheasant and Quail
Forever Annual Meeting
Micro Wrestling
APRIL
Blackwell High School Prom
101 Ranch Collectors Convention
Top of Oklahoma Museum Wine and Cheese Night
MAY
Blackwell High School Graduation
Cinco de Mayo Celebration
Chamber Annual Night Golf Tournament
JULY
Annual 4th of July Celebration
SEPTEMBER
Kay County Free Fair
SEPTEMBEROCTOBER
Homecoming
OCTOBER
Blackwell Public Power Customer Appreciation Day
NOVEMBER
Creations from the Heart Craft Show
DECEMBER
Christmas Parade
Community Tree Lighting Christmas Extravaganza
The Kay County Free Fair, held annually in Blackwell, Oklahoma, is one of the largest and oldest free county fairs in the state, attracting thousands of visitors every September. Established over a century ago, the fair has grown into a beloved tradition, offering a wide variety of activities for all ages.
Located at the Blackwell Fairgrounds, the event showcases the area's rich agricultural heritage while celebrating community spirit. Visitors can enjoy livestock shows, where local farmers and 4-H members display their best cattle, pigs, sheep, and horses.
Alongside agriculture, the fair
KAY COUNTY Free Fair Entertainment
offers thrilling carnival rides, games, and a wide variety of food stands serving up classic fair favorites like cotton candy, funnel cakes, and turkey legs. The fair also features competitions in baking, canning, quilting, and crafting, with ribbons awarded to participants from across the region.
Live music and entertainment are a major highlight, drawing crowds to the fair’s main stage for performances from local bands and even bigger acts from Oklahoma and beyond. Events such as the tractor pull contest, lineman's rodeo, and farmhand olympics are crowd favorites that ensure excitement for all.
The Kay County Free Fair is more
THE HUB FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
Connected to the Tonkawa Hotel & Casino, directly off the I-35, the HUB is a family entertainment center great for parties, vacations, date nights, and everything in between. From movie showings to bowling, arcade games and great food, the HUB offers casino amenities and endless entertainment opportunities for all ages. Stay and play with us.
LUCAS LANES
Lucus Lanes is a family friendly Bowling Center located in Blackwell. They have a fun and social atmosphere for individuals and groups to enjoy a game of bowling. Lucas Lanes offers bowling, league nights, tournaments, glo-bowling and is a great place to host birthday parties!
ROCK & BREWS CASINO
Rock & Brews Casino is an exceptional entertainment destination offering a variety of exciting games and delicious food and beverage offerings to make your experience special. Enjoy craft-brewed beers and made-to-order burgers while you play or have one of our bartenders mix up your favorite cocktail at the new Rock & Brews Restaurant on-site
than just an event; it’s a celebration of the county's heritage and future, bringing together families, friends, and neighbors to create memories that last a lifetime. The tradition continues to thrive, making it a must-attend event in Blackwell.
The HUB Family Entertainment Center
Lucas Lanes
Rock & Brews Casino
Blackwell VFW
The Blackwell VFW, founded in 1946 and named after World War I veteran Ivan M. Swaim, serves not only local veterans but the entire community. With 85 members, the organization plays a crucial role in Blackwell by providing color guards for parades, hosting Memorial Day services, and organizing Veterans Day events. The VFW also places flags downtown during holidays, offers scholarships, and engages local students through essay contests. Committed to suicide prevention for veterans, they also host a monthly pancake feed and contribute to various community causes.
Adjutant Cory Ingram emphasizes the importance of supporting veterans, not just financially but by attending events and expressing gratitude. The VFW fosters camaraderie among veterans, offering them a space to connect and support each other. The organization also cares for the Veterans Memorial at Blackwell Cemetery and was instrumental in having Blackwell recognized as a Purple Heart City in 2020, the 13th in Oklahoma. This distinction honors military personnel wounded or killed in combat,
BLACKWELL
Dining
ARTHUR’S BAR & GRILL
402 W. Dewey
580-262-2400
Eat, Drink and Be Good
THE BAKER’S TABLE
120 E. Grand Tonkawa, OK
580-823-7212
Best Bakery in Tonkawa
BRAVO’S MEXICAN GRILL & CANTINA
16301 W. South Ave. (US-60) Tonkawa, OK
580-308-1419
Authentic Mexican Food from our Family Recipes
DAIRY QUEEN
801 S. Main
580-363-2441
The cone with the curl on top
JOVANI’S PIZZA
1325 W. Doolin Ave.
580-363-2600
Blackwell has several delicious places to eat, and there’s something for everyone!
ROCK & BREWS RESTAURANT
Blackwell’s Hometown Pizzeria
LOS POTROS
4501 W. White Ave.
580-262-9635
The best Mexican off I-35
THE LUNCH BOX
202 N. Main
580-363-0331
Soups, Sandwiches, Baked Potatoes
MCDONALDS
909 N. 44th
580-363-3113
Have it your way
9525 US-177 Braman, OK 74632
580-385-2440
Eat. Play. Drink.
SHEP’S DINNER
828 W. Doolin Ave. and 1704 S. Main
580-363-0369
Hometown cooking at your convenience
SONIC
420 W. Doolin Ave. 580-363-0147
America’s Drive In
BOB’S GRILL
221 S. Main 580-363-367
BRAUM’S ICE CREAM & DAIRY STORE
823 N. 44th 580-363-2610
DONUT PALACE
224 S. Main
580-363-3588
PIZZA HUT
528 W. Doolin Ave. 580.-363-5011
PRAIRIE SMOKE BBQ
116 N Main
580-363-0747
THE STACK
1423 S. Main
580.-363-3395
SUBWAY
4511 W. White Ave.
580-363-1099
WHERE TO STAY
Blackwell offers several hotels, located scenically off of I-35 and along Doolin Ave..
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS AND SUITES BY IHG
827 S. 44th Street 580-363-1700
Make reservations at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Blackwell today!
QUALITY INN
4545 W. White Ave. 580-363-1300
SLEEP INN & SUITES
4530 W. White Ave. 580-789-4002
SUPER 8 MOTEL
1014 W Doolin Ave. 580-363-5945
BAYMONT BY WYNDHAM 1201 N. 44th St. 580-363-7000
SHERYL
MARK ESTEP 705 W Doolin Ave. Blackwell, OK 74631 580-363-2244 www.markestep.com
PERRY
YOUTH/SENIORS
SENIOR CITIZENS
Senior Citizens in Blackwell have access to the Senior Citizens Center located at 402 west Blackwell Ave..
They play cards on Tuesday night at 5:30 p.m. and have a potluck dinner on the 2nd and 4th Friday of the month. Senior Citizens also have the Wheatheart Nutrition Center. Wheatheart Nutrition serves nearly 300 lunches per day, 4 days a week, and acts not only as a place for area seniors to eat nutritious meals, but also to pla socialize. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. but guests can come as early as they want and stay as late as they want. (580) 262 0303.
BLACKWELL YOUTH
The Blackwell Youth Center is a great place for school-aged kids to congregate.
Located on Ikerd Ave. at the Blackwell Memorial Park, the Youth Center hosts hang-out nights every Friday and in the summer host various programs including an arts camp and more.
The Youth Center also frequently hosts
themed dances for holidays and special occasions.
The Youth Center offers a snack bar, video games, a dance floor, a recreation area, and access to the Memorial Park including the basketball court.
The Blackwell Youth Center is run by teen volunteers and a director to create a safe and welcoming environment for all.
programs to meet your
needs. Schedule workshops, seminars, courses, retreats, and training to address your specific questions, problems, or programs.
Welcome to Trinity Lutheran Church
A church of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod
Join us in receiving the gifts of Christ, even the forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation, in God’s Word and Divine Service.
We worship the Triune God who created all things and revealed Himself to His Creation through Jesus Christ.
Ministries at Trinity
Sunday Worship
Sunday School and Bible Study
Friday Morning Study
Faith Foundation
Friday LWML Deborah Quilters
First Friday Men’s Group
Ministries in the Community
Food Pantry
Community Conversations
Quarterly Cookies
July 4th BBQ Lunch
Christmas Parade
Paint and Craft Days
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A+ Printing
119 N. 3rd St. Ponca City, OK 74601
580-765-7752
FB: A+ Printing
ABC RV Park
1105 N. 9th St. Blackwell, OK 74631 580-363-2468 abcrvpark.com
Air Evac Lifeteam
311 Fairview Ponca City, OK 74601 918-285-6247 lifeteam.net
All About You Salon 116 N. Main Blackwell, OK 74631
FB: All About You Salon
Membership Directory
Andros Village 706 S. 21st St. Blackwell, OK 74036
580-363-2111
Armadillo Construction 1607 S. Main Blackwell, OK 74631
580-542-1115 FB: Armadillo Construction
Arthur’s
402 W. Dewey Blackwell, OK 74631 580-262-2400 arthursbar.net
Bachman Family Farms 1218 Main St., Suite B Deer Creek, OK 74636 580-440-0270 bachmanfamilyfarms.com
BancFirst
101 N. Main Blackwell, OK 74631 580-363-4141 bancfirst.,bank
Bethesda Church 115 W. Oklahoma Ave. Blackwell, OK 74631 580-789-0986
Blackwell Animal Hospital 608 N. 29th St. 580-363-1502 blackwellanimalhospital.com
Blackwell Antique Mall 102 S. Main Blackwell, OK 74631 918-408-0091
FB: Blackwell Antique Mall
Blackwell Community Foundation P.O. Box 514 Blackwell, OK 74631 580-363-3684
Blackwell Dentistry 1520 S. Main St. Blackwell, OK 74631 580-363-0728 blackwelldentist.com
Blackwell Economic Development Authority & Industrial Authority 515 N. 25th St. Blackwell, OK 74631 580-363-2934 blackwellnow.org