Have you ever wondered how Prague, Oklahoma got its unique name? It’s an interesting story that dates back to the late 1800s.
Early Settlers
Prague was settled in 1902 by a group of Czech immigrants. These settlers were attracted to the area by the rich soil and ample farming opportunities. They established a small community and named it after their homeland, Praha, which means “meadow” in Czech.
The Railroad Connection
The community of Prague continued to grow, and in 1903, a railroad line was built through the town. This was a significant development for the area, as it allowed for easier transportation of goods and people. The railroad company asked the residents to come up with a shorter name for the town so that it could fit on their schedules and maps.
The Naming Controversy
There are different accounts of how the town got its current name. One story goes that two residents were discussing possible names when they noticed a newspaper article about Prague Castle in Czechoslovakia. They liked the sound of it and proposed using “Prague” as the new name for their town.
Another version suggests that there was disagreement among the residents about what to call their town. Some wanted to keep the original name Praha, while others preferred something shorter like Praga or Prague.
After much debate, they decided to put all three options in a hat and draw one out at random. The winning name was Prague.
The Legacy Continues
Regardless of how it came about, Prague has embraced its unique name and cultural heritage. Today, visitors can see evidence of Czech influence throughout the town, from traditional folk art murals on buildings to annual events like Kolache Days – a celebration of Czech pastries.
In Conclusion
In summary, Prague, Oklahoma got its name from the Czech immigrants who settled in the area and named it after their homeland. When the railroad came to town, they had to choose a shorter name, and “Prague” was eventually selected through a process that may have involved some controversy. Now, Prague is a proud community that celebrates its history and cultural heritage.