As we continue our journey through the ghost towns of Oklahoma, we arrive at Skedee, a place where history still whispers through the echoes of the past.
Particularly, Part 3 of our four-part series leads us to this remarkable town, once a vibrant community that thrived in the wake of the land run. Join us as we uncover the extraordinary tale of Skedee, its evolution from Lemert, and the events that shaped its destiny. Discover the bond of friendship, the oil boom’s glory, and the heart-wrenching flood that ultimately transformed Skedee into a ghost town.
Without further ado, let’s jump into the article!
For more information on ghost towns in Oklahoma, please check out legends of America. You can find them here.
Skedee: Or did it use to be Lemert?
In the late 19th century, the area that would become Skedee burst to life during the Oklahoma Land Run of 1893. Originally named Lemert, it quickly became a center of commerce and community. However, it wasn’t until 1902 that the town officially became Skedee, following the establishment of a post office.
The Bond of Friendship Monument
At the heart of Skedee, a historical treasure graces the town: the Bond of Friendship monument, meticulously erected in 1926.
This striking structure is a testament to the strong rapport and prosperous business relationships forged between Colonel Walters and the Chief of the Osage Nation, Baconrind. Furthermore, it serves as a lasting symbol of the enduring camaraderie that once defined this close-knit community.
The Oil Boom’s Golden Era
During the oil boom, Skedee experienced a period of unprecedented prosperity. Likewise, millions of dollars flowed through the town as oil rigs dotted the landscape. It was a time of great promise and thriving businesses.
The Oil Bust of 1935
Yet, like many other oil-dependent communities, Skedee faced a harsh reality when the oil boom began to wane in 1935. As a result, the economic downturn took its toll, leading to businesses shuttering and residents departing in search of new opportunities.
And then came the Flood
Skedee’s descent into a ghost town accelerated with the catastrophic flood of 1957. This deluge, triggered by heavy rainfall and the overflowing Salt Fork River, inundated the town and submerged its infrastructure. Consequently, the flood’s repercussions were profound, leaving the community in disarray.
The Lingering Echoes
Today, Skedee stands as a haunting reminder of a once-thriving community. As a result, the town that was once a bustling hub now lies in silence, its streets empty, and its buildings mere echoes of the past. The Bond of Friendship monument still graces the center of town, a poignant symbol of what was.
Thoughts & Takeaways
The story of Skedee, Oklahoma, is a tale of resilience and transformation. From its early days as Lemert to the heights of the oil boom and the depths of the 1957 flood, the town’s history is a reflection of the changing tides of time. Today, Skedee stands as a ghost town, but its legacy lives on through the whispers of its past and the Bond of Friendship monument, which still stands in silent tribute to a bygone era. Explore the remnants, pay homage to the history, and remember Skedee, a town that once flourished on the Oklahoma prairie.
-CT