History of Midwest City

History of Midwest City

Midwest City was founded in 1942 by W. P. "Bill" Atkinson, a prominent businessman and builder in Oklahoma. The name Midwest City confuses some people because Midwest City is not in the Mid-West. The name actually has its roots with Tinker Air Force Base.

Tinker AFB was once named Midwest Air Depot, so when Midwest City was founded, the name seemed appropriate since those affiliated with the base would be living in the town. (That same name helps to identify why the East and West borders of the "Original Mile" are Midwest Blvd and Air Depot Blvd.). Midwest Air Depot was renamed to Tinker Air Force Base to honor Major General Clarence Tinker, a Native-American from Pawhuska, Oklahoma and the first American general to be killed on a mission in World War II.

The "Original Mile" is a one-square-mile area that was pre-planned by the city founders and held the first homes in Midwest City. The "Original Mile" helped to meet the growing need for housing that could be built quickly and affordably. The roads were designed in curves that prevented speeding and the design included civic and commercial areas as well. With the new population, a school was needed to educate the children. The first school was built in 1941 and was a combination of all grades.

Leaders of the community established goals and achievement of these goals was realized in 1951 when Midwest City was honored as "America's Model City." Today, Midwest City holds official designations of "Tree City USA" and "Certified City". A community of 25 square miles, Midwest City's southern boundary is adjacent to Tinker Air Force Base with 4 gates that lead directly onto the Base.

A warm and friendly atmosphere created by the citizens and a quality of life, which places family first, defines the community. It is a special place to live. Located in Central Oklahoma, Midwest City serves as the economic trade center for Eastern Oklahoma County and is conveniently close to metropolitan area amenities.