Nichols Park Bathhouse – Henryetta

Address:	Nichols Park, Henryetta, Oklahoma	County:	Okmulgee
Started:		Completed:	1935
Agencies:	WPA	NRHP:	December 6, 2006

Current Usage:

Abandoned

Description:

This bathhouse, adjacent to a man-made lake, is a rectangular (161′ x 38′) structure constructed of crudely cut, coursed, and rusticated native stone of buff color. The shower rooms are located at each end and a picnic area is in the “breeze way” center. The roof is gabled. Steps lead up the hill in the back of the structure, while a series of steps lead down to the water in front of the bathhouse. A rock fence extends to each side of the structure. The roof, portico, pediments, and center gable are newly constructed of brown wood. Concrete tables, seats, and grills have been added. The alterations do not impeach the integrity of the bathhouse.
The Nichols Park Bathhouse is a classic example of the type of project undertaken by the WPA immediately following its creation. Construction of the bathhouse and picnic area in Henryetta provided many jobs for destitute laborers who were badly in need of some type of economic security. It also enabled the WPA to infuse wages of some 100,000 man-hours into the local economy in an attempt to soften the impact of the depression on main street. Completion of the building also enhanced recreational opportunities in the area, and this helped raise morale at a time when this was badly-needed. Architecturally, the bathhouse is unique in terms of type, style, scale, and workmanship.

VERBAL BOUNDARY DESCRIPTION: Situated south of Henryetta, the bathhouse is located on property that begins 1456 feet east and 624 feet north from the southeast corner of Sec. 19, T 11 N, R 13 E, thus east 208 feet, north 208 feet, west 208 feet, and south 208 feet.

Park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.[4]