HISTORIC ENID: PRESERVING THE PAST
Enid’ s rich history is reflected in its well-preserved neighborhoods, landmarks, and cultural sites. From the city’ s earliest days following the 1893 Cherokee Strip Land Run to its growth as an agricultural, commercial, and civic center, Enid’ s historic areas tell
the story of a community shaped by resilience, opportunity, and progress.
Historic Residential Districts Enid is home to two designated historic residential neighborhoods: the Kenwood Historic District and the Waverley Historic District. Together, these districts showcase a wide range of popular architectural styles from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, reflecting Enid’ s development through early settlement, periods of prosperity, oil booms, and the Great Depression.
The Kenwood Historic District, Enid’ s first residential addition, is a 10-block area located just northwest of downtown. Originally claimed during the 1893 Land Run, Kenwood includes approximately 50 historic homes and a few commercial buildings, constructed between 1895 and 1932. The district is generally bounded by Walnut Avenue, Maple Avenue, Washington Street, and Madison Street.
The Waverley Historic District encompasses a 24-block area located about 11 blocks west of downtown Enid. Developed between 1902 and 1907, Waverley today includes 287 historic homes, two churches, and one apartment building, with most residences built from 1906 through the 1920s. The district is bounded by Broadway, Oklahoma Avenue, Harrison Street, and Buchanan Street. Both neighborhoods feature active neighborhood associations and watch programs dedicated to preserving their historic character. Walking-tour brochures for each district are available through the City of Enid Planning Office.
National Register of Historic Places In addition to its historic districts, Enid has 26 properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These sites represent a broad cross-section of the city’ s cultural heritage, archaeology, history, and architecture. Informational pamphlets highlighting these nationally recognized properties are available at the City of Enid Planning Office.
One standout landmark is the Garfield County Courthouse, located at 114 West Broadway in downtown Enid. Inside, visitors can view striking murals completed in 1938, depicting the region’ s history from pre-settlement life on the Plains through the Great Land Run of 1893. The courthouse is open to the public Monday through Friday, 8:00 a. m. to 4:30 p. m., with free admission.
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