History

The first settlers to arrive in Stillwater in 1889 had to make due without the many utilities we take for granted today. However, they didn't have to wait long. 12 years later, in 1901, Stillwater's first electrical service became available. In those days, electrical power was only available from 8 p.m. to midnight, supplying current for lightning in homes and to some heavily trafficked public areas. Apparently, the city forefathers saw no need for illumination after midnight, after most "respectable" folk had gone to bed.

In June of 1908, things began to change. "Day electric current" was added, mainly to provide power for small motors and fans – of great importance for the hot Oklahoma summer. The first cooling in Stillwater was provided by 36 electric fans ordered by city electrician Hardy by the time the electricity would be running. A newspaper of the day predicted: “A number of persons also want motors for light power, and not a few housewives will use electric irons, and small motors for running washing machines and wringers. It is not expected that the day current will directly pay at first, but it will in time, and it will be a great convenience to many people”.

The electricity was a great convenience for many people and as Stillwater grew demand for electricity also grew . In 1918 the Fourth Street power plant was built using an engine from the previous site (south of what is now the Moose Lodge) and a new 300 KW engine. In 1922, a 500 KW steam engine was added, and in 1925 another 750 KW. In 1929, the building had to be renovated to make room for new equipment. The building was extended and the roof itself was raised to allow room for installation of new boilers and a 1500 KW steam turbine. In 1936, a 2500 KW steam turbine was put on line, which was sufficient until 1949 when capacity was increased with a 4000 KW turbine. By 1950, it was becoming clear that the Fourth Street Station would become inadequate for the growing needs of Stillwater. In 1956, Boomer Station was put on line with a 10,000 KW turbine, which was expanded in 1959 with a 12,650 KW generator. In 1993, that generating station was completely renovated to make the plant equipment usable into the next century.