The town flourished at first with several stores, saloons , undertaking parlor, school, churches, several newspapers,professional people and numerous residences. The early population was estimated at 1500. Two railroads staked lines through Reno City, but the Rock Island, instead built west through the C and A lands reportedly because Reno City refused to pay the bonus. Then the Choctaw,Okla & Gulf built on the south side of the river sounding the death knell of the city although the post office established June 15.1889 lasted through 1902. By this time most of the building and residents had moved to El Reno. Only the original school still stands just north of this spot now a residence.

This maker was erected by the Canadian County Historical Society, with funds given in memory of Frank C Bael. The society's vice president.