BEFORE: Rouleau (pronounced Roo’low) is a French word meaning ‘roll of coins’, but it once seemed no amount of money could save this historic hotel from the wrecking ball. This three-story building was originally built in 1916 and once housed notable persons like Oklahoma Gov. William (Alfalfa Bill) Murray. Restoration of the landmark hotel began with an Idabel Main Street “Save the Rouleau” campaign.
AFTER: Located on Main Street, this three-story red brick beauty is one of Idabel’s last standing early-day landmarks. In almost a half century of service, the Rouleau Hotel was the center of social and civic activity and helped to anchor the business district. It is one of only three projects of this type funded in the state of Oklahoma. The building, now called the Rouleau House, consist of twenty apartments that provide safe housing to the elderly and disabled of the area, while preserving this historic structure. The house is currently at full capacity and all twenty residents (and their visiting family and friends) contribute to the economy by regularly shopping with downtown merchants, who are all within walking distance.
BEFORE: Sherman's Shoe store is the first of several facade improvements by downtown businesses.
AFTER: The preservation of the unique architecture of the building is encouraged to maintain it's historical character.
Sherman Plaza on Main & Central.
Sherman Plaza Amphitheater.
"In Tall Cotton" article featured in the Dallas Morning News.
The cast and storytellers of "In Tall Cotton"
Idabel's New Fire Station in cooperation with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma
Idabel Farmers' Market.
John M Carr Building
Red B Restaurant.
Shipps Law Office
Idabel Public Library
Idabel Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture
Carl Sherman Plaza and Amphitheater.
Idabel City Hall
State Theater now the Idabel Legal Arts Building.
Idabel Veterans Museum.
To improve the quality of life and preserve the culture of our people by strengthening the downtown, as the historical center of commerce in McCurtain County, with a comprehensive approach to revitalization through concentrated efforts in organization, promotion, design and economic restructuring. Furthermore, to demonstrate the philosophy of 'service above self' volunteerism by embracing a diverse base of willing and talented volunteers.
Since its inception in 1998 Idabel Main Street has tracked over $5.5 million in reinvestment in the downtown business district, received three state awards and has become a driving force for progress in Idabel and McCurtain County.
Take a look around and you'll discover why Idabel Main Street is "a Work in Progress".