Legendary Locals of Edmond

Book excerpt: Edmond was settled in 1889 when pioneers claimed the land during the first Oklahoma land run. Located in the heart of America, Edmond is an ever-growing city with more than 80,000 residents. It is found just north of Oklahoma City on historic Route 66. Through the first 125 years, a diverse and interesting batch of people have made Edmond their home. From early leaders such as Milton "Kicking Bird" Reynolds, founding editor of the Edmond Sun, and Anton Classen, a civic leader and businessman, to present-day business leaders, celebrities, and sports stars, Edmond has had a wealth of remarkable characters. Doctors, ministers, beauty queens, lawmen, firefighters, a former governor, and many other everyday citizens have made Edmond the town it is today. Former mayor Saundra Naifeh once said, "Edmond has always been held to a high standard by the people and businesses who call it home." Residents are proud of its heritage and small-town character and values.