Address:510 Parker Street, Poteau, OklahomaCounty: Leflore
Started: Completed: 1937
Agencies:WPANRHP:September 8, 1988

Current Usage:

School Property

Description:

The Poteau gym and auditorium is a two story, rectangular {100′ x 78′) structure constructed of rusticated and coursed, cream colored native sandstone. The roof is both flat and gabled, with parapets. The facade on the south front is slightly extended and contains to entryways with arches. Side doors and upper and lower windows with concrete sills have been enclosed with concrete blocks. These alterations do not impeach the integrity of the structure.
The gym/auditorium is significant because is provided space for school and community activities, especially basketball, which fostered a sense of identity and pride lacking in the depression era. Construction of it also provided work opportunities for unskilled and unemployed laborers in the Poteau area where few had existed previously. As a WPA building, the structure is notable for its size/scale. Within the community it is unique architecturally because of its type, style, scale, materials and workmanship.

VERBAL BOUNDARY DESCRIPTION: Lot 7, Block 64, Poteau original

Sources:

  1. Oklahoma Landmarks Inventory Nomination
  2. National Register of Historic Places

Supported Documents:

  1. WPA Properties Leflore County – Poteau School Gym/Auditorium
  2. National Register of Historic Places Support Document
  3. National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form

Photos:

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