Lawton, OK – The City of Lawton, in collaboration with the Museum of the Great Plains, is hosting the 2nd Annual New Deal Planning Symposium, a two-day event highlighting the legacy of New Deal programs in Oklahoma. The symposium, taking place on March 27-28, 2025, brings together historians, community leaders, and stakeholders to discuss past and future preservation efforts tied to Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and Works Progress Administration (WPA) projects.
Building upon the success of the inaugural planning meeting in 2023, this year’s event features a series of presentations on March 27, led by experts in Oklahoma history. Discussions will center on major WPA projects, infrastructure contributions, and the impact of New Deal initiatives on the state. Among the speakers is Dr. Lance Janda from Cameron University, recognized for his expertise in historical preservation.
On March 28, attendees will take part in a guided tour of the Wichita Mountains, followed by a community lunch in Medicine Park. The event aims to educate the public on the enduring significance of New Deal programs and begin preparations for the 100th anniversary of Roosevelt’s historic initiative in 2033.
The New Deal, introduced during the Great Depression, played a crucial role in stabilizing communities through job creation, infrastructure development, and social programs. In Oklahoma, these initiatives were particularly impactful during the Dust Bowl, leading to the construction of parks, roads, and public buildings that remain in use today.
This symposium serves as a platform to celebrate the New Deal’s contributions, encourage preservation efforts, and lay the foundation for a statewide centennial commemoration. The event is free and open to the public, inviting all those interested in Oklahoma’s history to take part in the discussions.
