With its picturesque natural areas and modern vibe, it is apparent that Edmond is a well-balanced, happening place. It is listed as one of the best places to live in the state and ranked among the top 40 places to live in the US by Money Magazine. Presently, Edmond is home to more than 81,000 people. With this population size, it is the sixth biggest city in the state. Edmond has a lot to offer in the way of attractions, amenities, and conveniences. However, it is also not a place that has forgotten about its past.
Edmond's Origins
Edmond was settled during the 1800s. While some surrounding areas were settled before the arrival of the railroad, especially during the time of the government-sponsored land grabs, Edmond did not emerge until the Santa Fe railway. The city was initially a small settlement that was established as a convenient stopping point along the railway. The site was chosen because it marked the highest point in the county, which made it easy for trains to collect cargo and proceed downhill from the station in both directions. Edmond's name came about from a man named Edmond Burdick, who was a railway agent in charge of the Edmond station. In 1889, the name "Edmond" was officially selected as the town's name. At the time of its establishment, the city was home to just 294 residents. The first schoolhouse to serve the city, built the same year, remains standing today. It is occasionally open for tours, but only by appointment.
Edmond's growth escalated even more around 1890 with the foundation of three local universities. These included a state university located in Norman, a combined mechanical college and agricultural school, and a teaching school. Around the time that the school opened, the city's first newspaper emerged. That paper, called the Edmond Sun, is still in existence today, over 100 years since it first entered production.
Things to do in Edmond
Today, Edmond has grown considerably since its origins of a railroad station and population of fewer than 300 people. Edmond is home to many places worth exploring, ranging from designated sporting areas and recreational spaces to parks and manmade attractions.
Arcadia Lake
Arcadia Lake covers a total area of more than 1,800 acres. It also has just under 30 miles of shoreline. The lake is actually a manmade lake that was created in 1987. Now it is just as popular for its initial activities, which are swimming, boating, and other water sports. Fishing is also a favorite pastime at Arcadia Lake.
Arcadia Round Barn
This historic attraction, located on Route 66, is one of the most famous landmarks in the city. What's even more impressive is that it was handmade in 1989 by a man named William Odor, who was then a resident farmer. The barn is made of wood, and a special process was used to make the wood malleable enough to have a rounded shape.
Mitch Park
This park is a go-to destination for recreational activities. Its 280 acres provide plenty of room for everyone to spread out and enjoy some free leisure time. Within the park's network are multiple playgrounds, a disc golf area, volleyball nets, and a skate park. Paved trails provide multi-use recreational opportunities for a variety of purposes, including walking, biking, and running.
EC Hafer Park
Another park located in the city, the EC Hafer Park is a scenic area that offers an abundance of outdoor areas and recreational opportunities. Included in the park's list of amenities are a fishing pond, several playgrounds, a trail network and a variety of open grass-covered areas available for fitness activities, picnicking, playing sports, and more. A sand volleyball court offers a place for people to play a game of volleyball.
With a vibrant town center, a sizable population, and many beautiful natural areas, Edmond is a city that seems to have it all. While you might not be able to provide your neighborhood with everything that the city offers, you can at least make it look more attractive by keeping your lawn and property maintained. In spring, there's nothing like having your own lush lawn to sit on for enjoying a sunny day or having your own beautiful flowers to look at. With expert assistance from Lawn Love, the area's lawn care and lawn maintenance specialists, you can get an award-winning lawn in no time.
