The Woodward News

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September 4, 2012

Ellis County Courthouse marking 100 years

Woodward News

Woodward, Okla. — ARNETT – This is the Centennial year for the Ellis County Courthouse and Sept. 29 is the date for the celebration.

A number of events are planned starting at 8 a.m. and leading up to the Centennial ceremony at 1:30 p.m. on the east side of the courthouse.

Arnett was selected by Ellis County voters in 1908 to be the site of the courthouse. The building was built on the town square and completed in 1912.

At that time, there were 7 towns in Ellis County and a total of 105 school districts.

County commissioners at the time were John S. Latta, J. W. Bruce and Harry Shields.

The celebration day starts off with a 5K run and a mile fun run at 8 a.m. A poker run begins at 1 p.m. Pre-registration for both events is due by Sept. 17 and entry forms are available at the OSU Extension Office.

All proceeds will go to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

A crafts show and bake sale will be held at the fire station starting at 9 a.m.

Also at 9 a.m. is the start of the “Amazing Race.” Kids 10-under go first followed by 11-14 at 9:45 and over 15 at 10 a.m.

Tours and historical displays of the courthouse are planned from 10 a.m. to noon. Visitors can check out school youth art contest entries at 10 a.m. at city hall and a free meal is planned from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Centennial ceremony begins at 1:30 p.m. highlighted by the Masonic Lodge Cornerstone Ceremony. Organizers said records show a cornerstone was placed at the courthouse in 1912 by the Masonic Lodge with several sentimental items placed in the cornerstone. A new box representing 2012 will be placed this year.

Also, light poles with banners have been placed on the courthouse square and will be presented by the county commissioners.

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