Altus, OK

Altus, Oklahoma, is a city located in Jackson County, in the southwestern part of the state. The history of Altus dates back to the late 19th century when the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Apache and Comanche.

In the late 1800s, the region became a key battleground for territorial disputes between ranchers and farmers. At the time, the area was known as Frazer Flats, named after a local cattle rancher. However, as settlers moved into the area, they quickly renamed it "Altus," which means "high" or "tall" in Latin, referring to the high plateau on which the city sits.

The development of Altus can be attributed to the arrival of the Chicago-Rock Island Railroad in 1901, which opened up transportation and trade opportunities for the area's agricultural products. The city's growth accelerated, and it was officially incorporated as a municipality in 1908. The discovery of oil and natural gas deposits in the surrounding area during the 1910s further contributed to Altus' economic development.

During World War II, Altus played a vital role in the war effort as it became the site for the Altus Army Airfield, which later became the Altus Air Force Base. The base trained thousands of pilots, navigators, and bombardiers for the war, and it has continued to train military personnel ever since.

Another significant milestone in Altus' history was the opening of Western Oklahoma State College in 1926. This institution has become a prominent education provider for the region, offering various associate degrees and continuing education options.

Over the years, Altus has seen ups and downs in its economy, largely tied to the agricultural and energy sectors. However, the city has diversified its economy and now also benefits from healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retail sectors.

Altus is known for its friendly community and small-town charm. It is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including the scenic Quartz Mountain Nature Park and Lake Altus-Lugert, which provide opportunities for outdoor recreation.

In summary, the history of Altus, Oklahoma, is a story of growth and evolution. From its early days as a frontier settlement to its contributions to the war effort and its present-day status as a thriving community, Altus continues to build upon its rich history and embrace its future.

Altus Air Force Base

A major military installation that offers public tours.

Museum of the Western Prairie

A museum showcasing the history and culture of the region.

Mizener Automotive Museum

A collection of vintage and classic cars.

Quartz Mountain Nature Park

A scenic park offering outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping.

Altus Speedway

A dirt racetrack that hosts various racing events.

Altus City Reservoir

A popular spot for fishing and boating.

Western Oklahoma State College

A community college that often hosts cultural events, concerts, and art exhibits.

Altus Plaza Shopping Center

A retail center with a variety of stores and restaurants.

Lugert-Altus Irrigation District

A large reservoir where visitors can enjoy boating and fishing.

Altus Public Library

A vibrant community library that often hosts events and activities for all ages.

Altus, Oklahoma has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summers tend to be long, hot, and humid, with temperatures often reaching into the high 90s and occasionally even exceeding 100°F (38°C). Heatwaves are common during the summer months. In contrast, winters in Altus are relatively mild, with daytime temperatures averaging in the 50s°F (10-15°C) and dropping into the 30s°F (0-5°C) at night. Snowfall is infrequent but possible during the winter months, with an average of around 6 inches (15 cm) of snow per year.

Altus experiences relatively low precipitation throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of just under 25 inches (64 cm). Most of the precipitation occurs during the spring and early summer, with occasional thunderstorms. The region also experiences occasional severe thunderstorms, especially during the spring, which can bring heavy rain, hail, and strong winds. Tornadoes are a possibility in Altus, although they occur less frequently compared to other parts of Oklahoma.

Overall, Altus, OK has a dry and hot climate during the summer, with mild and relatively dry winters. It is essential to be prepared for the heat and occasional extreme weather events if living or visiting the area.

Altus, Oklahoma is a small city located in Jackson County, in the southwestern part of the state. While Altus may not be known for a wide range of distinct neighborhoods, it does have a few areas that offer different characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the neighborhoods you might find in Altus:

Downtown Altus

This is the heart of the city, where you'll find the historic district and the main business area. Here, you can find a mix of small businesses, restaurants, shops, and community services. Downtown Altus also hosts events and festivals throughout the year.

North Altus

The northern part of Altus is mostly residential, with a mix of single-family homes and apartment complexes. This area tends to be quieter and offers a suburban feel with tree-lined streets and parks. It's also home to several schools, making it an attractive neighborhood for families.

South Altus

South Altus is a more commercial area, with various shopping centers, big-box stores, and restaurants. This neighborhood is close to Altus Air Force Base, which is one of the city's major employers. South Altus offers a mix of residential and commercial properties, making it a convenient place to live for those who prefer easy access to amenities.

West Altus

West Altus is primarily a residential area with a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment complexes. This neighborhood offers a suburban atmosphere with quiet streets and nearby parks. It's also close to the Western Oklahoma State College, adding a touch of educational influence to the area.

East Altus

The eastern part of Altus is a mix of residential and industrial areas. It's home to Altus Industrial Airpark and others, making it a significant industrial hub for the city. There are also residential pockets in this neighborhood, where you'll find a range of housing options.

Overall, Altus offers a small-town community feel and a relatively affordable cost of living. While the city doesn't have distinctively defined neighborhoods, these general areas offer different lifestyles and amenities depending on your preferences.