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1922 — The Chamber of Commerce was growing rapidly, becoming the central point for all community activities. Fifty directors, representing the 310 member businesses, met three times a month. The Chamber was also the parent organization of the Humane Society, Boy Scouts, Public Health Association, Ponca City Band, and the Retailers Credit Association.

Chief industries were the two oil refineries, representing an investment of $10 million and employing more than 1,500 men. Approximately 25,000 barrels of oil daily were required to supply the Marland and Empire refineries. Both companies had contracts with Santa Fe to supply 1,000 barrels of fuel oil daily for a year.

The Oklahoma Press Association hosted their four-day annual meeting in May. Local officials planned many activities to make the 400 guests welcome. They toured the city, the oil fields and refinery, and were guests of the Miller Brothers at the 101 Ranch. They held their meetings in the city auditorium, which could seat 1,100.

Many homeowners participated in the annual "City Beautiful" campaign. The Ponca City News reported that "lawns are clean, unsightly places have been eliminated and parking areas along the 150 blocks of paved streets are improved. Many citizens have planted alfalfa and garden crops on the vacant lots to prevent weeds from infesting those places."

The city spent $2,000,000 to pave 12 miles of streets, comprising 50 blocks on 17 streets.

The business district, known as the "white way," had 1,000 lights, five on each light post.

W.H. Hannah organized the Ponca City Band. That summer, they played 25 concerts, entertaining citizens at the city park, the business district and at all community events.

Mayor Cragin resigned. His business, the Harry Cragin Lumber Company, required his full attention. Hugh Johnston, city manager/chief of police, also resigned. J.S. Hutchins, Commissioner of Public Finance, was named Acting Mayor. He immediately called a special election to fill the vacancy. Preston Lowrance was elected to serve out Cragin's term. He was the only person who filed, and the only one on the ballot, but he did receive 150 votes. His first official act was to appoint S.A. Dellaplain as the new chief of police, with a salary of $250 per month.

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