Luther, Oklahoma – Growing Today – Legends of America
Nestled in the far northeastern corner of Oklahoma County lies Luther, a town steeped in history and quietly growing today. Positioned strategically along the iconic Route 66, Luther offers a unique glimpse into the past while embracing the present. Founded around 1891, just two years after the famed Oklahoma Land Rush, this charming locale has weathered numerous transformations, each leaving an indelible mark on its character.
The Genesis of Luther
Initially, the fledgling community was known as Garnettville, a humble gathering of settlers carving out a new life in the vast Oklahoma Territory. However, the town’s trajectory shifted dramatically in February 1898 when Luther F. Aldrich, an enterprising individual from Cumberland County, Illinois, acquired a significant tract of land adjacent to the proposed St. Louis and Oklahoma City Railroad (later known as the St. Louis and San Francisco Railway).
Aldrich recognized the potential of this location, strategically situated along the banks of the Deep Fork River. In April of that year, he meticulously platted a townsite, laying the foundation for what would become Luther. By July, the town had secured a vital component of community infrastructure: a post office.
The naming of the town is an interesting tale in itself. Aldrich’s partner, Charles G. Jones, a prominent Oklahoma City railroad magnate, suggested the name "Luther," a nod to both Aldrich and Jones’ son, who also bore the name Luther.
Early Growth and Prosperity
The dawn of the 20th century brought significant developments to Luther. In 1903, the Missouri, Kansas, and Texas Railway commenced the construction of tracks extending north from Oklahoma City towards Osage, reaching a point just a mile north of Luther by June of that year. This railway connection further solidified Luther’s position as a transportation hub.
Two years later, in 1905, Luther officially incorporated, marking a significant step in its development as a self-governing municipality. By the time Oklahoma achieved statehood in 1907, Luther boasted a population of 423 residents. The town proudly proclaimed itself as a leader in cotton production, boasting five cotton gins and shipping the largest volume of cotton of any town in Oklahoma.
A Hub of Education and Community
Luther’s commitment to education was evident in the establishment of the Booker T. Washington High School in 1916. This institution, dedicated to serving African American students, quickly gained recognition as one of the leading high schools for black students in the United States.
By 1920, Luther’s population had grown to 601, and the town was a vibrant center of community life, with four churches, two banks, a weekly newspaper, and reliable telephone service. In 1922, the Booker T. Washington High School expanded, reflecting the town’s commitment to education. However, tragedy struck in December 1930 when the school was destroyed by fire. Undeterred, the community rallied together, and the school was rebuilt the following year.
Challenges and Transformations
In 1926, Route 66, the "Mother Road," was established, passing through the northern edge of Luther. While this brought increased visibility and potential economic opportunities, the Great Depression cast a long shadow over the area. Many farmers faced foreclosure, leading to relocation and the closure of numerous businesses.
By 1940, Luther’s population had declined to 425, but the town still managed to maintain a number of essential stores and services. The end of World War II brought further changes. Both railroads discontinued their services through Luther, impacting the town’s role as a transportation center. However, with increased automobile ownership, residents began commuting to nearby cities such as Cushing, Oklahoma City, and Guthrie for work.
Desegregation and Transition
In 1953, the Turner Turnpike, connecting Oklahoma City and Tulsa, diverted traffic away from Luther, posing challenges for some businesses. However, the town managed to maintain its population. In the same year, the students of Washington High School proudly presented their first yearbook to the student body. It would be the first and only yearbook for the high school.
The following year, the U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark decision in Brown v. Board of Education declared segregation in schools unconstitutional. The Class of 1955 was the last to graduate from Washington High School before integration. After desegregation, the Washington campus continued to be used for all students for a few more years.
Modern Luther
During the 1960s, Luther experienced a period of growth, with its population reaching 836 by 1970. However, by the 1980s, the main building of Booker T. Washington High School had deteriorated to the point of demolition. Today, the only remaining structure is the Industrial Arts building, which now serves as the Headstart building. The site of the former high school has been transformed into a memorial park, honoring its legacy.
Today, Luther’s population is estimated to be around 1,750. It is conveniently located about 15 miles east of Edmond and 30 miles northeast of Oklahoma City, offering residents a blend of small-town charm and access to urban amenities.
The Legend of the Rock of Ages Station
About 4.5 miles west of Luther, along Route 66, lie the ruins of an old Conoco service station, known locally as the Rock of Ages Station. This roofless stone building, believed to have been built between 1915 and 1920, predates Route 66. In its heyday, it offered two fuel pumps, one for regular gas and one for ethyl, as well as drums for dispensing oil and kerosene. Cold soda pop was sold on days when the iceman came by. Hard candy was also sold, but chocolate was only available in the winter because, in the summer, it would melt, and there was no refrigerator.
The station is shrouded in local legend, with tales of its owners being involved in counterfeiting during the 1930s. According to the story, the owners were approached by a salesman who offered to sell them a set of metal currency plates so they could manufacture $10 bills. Facing economic hardship during the Depression, the owners accepted.
They built an addition to the back of the building, where they increased their revenue with the new counterfeit product. Soon, they were passing the bills off to unsuspecting customers and spending some for themselves. However, when one of them passed a counterfeit bill in Oklahoma City, they were soon caught. The station was raided, the plates and ink found in the back room, and the two were arrested and sent to jail. Afterward, the station closed and fell into ruin. Later in the 1940s, a body was found there, a murder victim who was never identified.
However, researchers have found no evidence that it happened. Firstly, no stories have been found in local newspapers about a counterfeit operation taking place anywhere in the area at this time. Further, there is no mention of anyone in Luther being arrested. There is no trace of a secret backroom, but if it was made of wood, that could have quickly disappeared. And finally, local lore said the station closed after the place was raided and its owners jailed. However, a 1940s photograph shows it was still operating. In any case, the legend makes this place even more interesting, true or not.
Conclusion
Luther, Oklahoma, stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of small-town America. From its humble beginnings as a railroad stop to its current status as a growing community along Route 66, Luther has navigated numerous challenges and transformations. Its rich history, coupled with its strategic location and growing population, make it a unique and compelling destination for those seeking a glimpse into the past and a taste of the present.