Which event marked the beginning of the oil boom in Oklahoma?

The event that marked the beginning of the oil boom in Oklahoma is early drilling in Bartlesville. This period began in the late 19th century, specifically around the 1890s, when oil was discovered in the area. The first significant drilling operations in Bartlesville led to the discovery of oil fields, which set off widespread interest and investment in oil exploration across the region. As a result, Bartlesville became one of the leading centers of oil production in the state, leading to economic growth and the influx of population and businesses.

Gold discoveries and the establishment of statehood are significant historical events but are unrelated to the immediate onset of the oil boom. The construction of oil refineries is a later development that occurred in response to the initial discoveries and drilling but did not mark the beginning of the boom itself.