As the crisp autumn breeze rustles the leaves and the moon casts eerie shadows on the silent streets, it’s Halloween season in Texola, Oklahoma. The perfect time to unravel the enigmatic tale of this dwindling town in the heart of the Sooner State.
Part 4 of our final series on Oklahoma’s forgotten towns takes us on a journey back in time to uncover the secrets behind Texola’s population decline.
Without further ado, let’s jump into the article!
For more information on Oklahoma Ghost Towns, please check out the Legends of America. You can find them here.
Texola had A Prosperous Past
Texola, once a bustling community teeming with life, stood as a shining gem of the Oklahoma landscape during the early 20th century. Established on the famous Route 66, this town was a beacon for travelers, drawing them in with its lively diners, bustling service stations, and vibrant communities.
The One Room Jail: A Symbol of Law and Order
At the heart of Texola stood a humble one-room jail, a place that housed the town’s few lawbreakers. This historic jail, despite its small size, was a testament to the town’s commitment to maintaining law and order. However, as the population dwindled, so did the need for this symbol of justice.
The Magnolia Service Station: A Fueling Point of History
Standing tall along Route 66, the Magnolia Service Station was a testament to Texola’s connection to this iconic highway. This service station provided weary travelers with a place to refuel, rest, and refresh.
The buzz of Route 66 brought life and commerce to Texola, ensuring the town thrived as a prominent stop along this historic route.
However, over time, Texola’s fortunes began to wane.
The Great Depression and The Dust Bowl Did not Help
During the 1930s, the Great Depression descended upon the nation, and Texola was not spared. The economic turmoil forced families to tighten their belts, and sadly, many businesses in town shuttered their doors.
But if that wasn’t enough to negatively impact the town of Texola, the Dust Bowl was much worse.
The Dust Bowl catastrophe, which swept across the southern plains, compounded Texola’s woes. With crops failing and the land becoming a barren wasteland, consequently, residents were left with little choice but to seek opportunities elsewhere.
A Shift in Transportation Trends
As the 20th century progressed, there was a significant shift in transportation trends. The once-thriving Route 66 began to lose its prominence, leading to fewer tourists passing through Texola. This decline in tourism meant less business for the town’s shops and services.
Abandonment and Migration
As a result, many residents abandoned their homes and headed for more prosperous regions. This mass migration saw Texola’s population gradually dwindling.
Texola’s Enduring Spirit
While Texola experienced a significant population decline, it’s essential to recognize the enduring spirit of the town and its residents. The few who remained steadfastly clung to their hometown, determined to keep its memory alive.
Transitioning to the Present
Today, Texola stands as a testament to the changing tides of history. Its streets are eerily quiet, and its buildings wear the marks of time, yet Texola’s history continues to captivate those who venture into this Oklahoma ghost town.
Thoughts & Takeaways
In conclusion, Texola, Oklahoma, tells a story of a town that once flourished but fell victim to the relentless forces of time and circumstance. Its decline serves as a reminder that the past is filled with both prosperity and hardships, and even in the face of adversity, the human spirit endures.
As you walk through the desolate streets of Texola, amidst the Halloween season, remember that beneath the silence and shadows lies a vibrant history waiting to be rediscovered. In this final chapter of our series on forgotten towns in Oklahoma, we leave you with the thought that, no matter how towns may change, their legacies continue to whisper through the winds of time, waiting for curious souls to hear their tales. And if you listen closely, you can almost hear the echoes of travelers refueling at the Magnolia Service Station and the distant laughter of those once held in the one-room jail.
-CT
