A Step Back in Time in Elk City, Oklahoma

Elk City, Oklahoma, stands as a vibrant testament to the diverse tapestry of American history. From its roots in the rugged Old West to its pivotal role in the iconic Route 66 era and the boisterous oil boom of the early 1980s, this city offers a compelling journey through time. Its collection of historical sites and the warm embrace of Western hospitality make Elk City a must-see destination for those seeking an authentic slice of Americana.

Before the land encompassing present-day Elk City was officially opened for settlement, it served as a crucial pathway for the movement of livestock. The Great Western Trail, a dusty artery stretching northward from Texas, saw countless herds of cattle driven towards the railheads of Dodge City, Kansas. This trail was a vital component of the cattle industry, facilitating the transport of beef to eastern markets. The landscape, then part of the vast Indian Territory, was soon to undergo a dramatic transformation.

The year 1892 marked a turning point, as the surplus lands of the Cherokee Outlet were made available to homesteaders. A wave of pioneers began to trickle into the area, eager to carve out a new life on the Oklahoma plains. This influx of settlers signaled the beginning of a new chapter in the region’s history, laying the foundation for the future development of towns and communities like Elk City.

The first pioneer to permanently settle in what would become Elk City was J.M. "Joe" Allee, who in 1897, staked his claim on a quarter section of land just east of Elk Creek. Allee’s homestead marked the initial foothold of civilization in the area, a solitary beacon amidst the vast expanse of the prairie. His presence paved the way for the more significant development that was soon to follow.

In March of 1901, the Choctaw Townsite and Improvement Company acquired land from Allee, spurred by the anticipation of the Choctaw and Gulf Railroad’s arrival later that year. Recognizing the potential of the railroad to transform the area, the townsite company moved swiftly to capitalize on the opportunity.

The company wasted no time, filing a survey of platted lots on March 18, 1901, and making preparations to sell them just two days later. This rapid action demonstrated the company’s eagerness to establish a town and attract settlers to the area. The anticipation was palpable, and the stage was set for a land rush that would forever alter the landscape of western Oklahoma.

Even before the official sale commenced, a makeshift tent city sprang up, populated by hundreds of prospective landowners eager to secure their piece of the future Elk City. This spontaneous settlement underscored the intense desire for land and opportunity that characterized the era. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and anticipation, as people from all walks of life converged on the site, hoping to stake their claim in the burgeoning community.

On the day of the sale, the Choctaw Townsite and Improvement Company successfully sold $32,000 worth of property. This impressive figure highlighted the immense interest in the newly platted town and solidified its prospects for rapid growth. The influx of capital and the arrival of new residents transformed the landscape almost overnight, laying the foundation for a thriving community.

Initially, the town was christened Crowe, but this name was soon deemed inadequate by some of the more ambitious business leaders of the nascent settlement. An effort was made to rename the town Busch, hoping to entice brewing magnate Adolphus Busch to establish a brewery there. However, this attempt proved unsuccessful. Ultimately, the town’s name was officially changed to Elk City, a tribute to the nearby Elk Creek that meandered through the landscape.

The first businesses to establish themselves in Elk City catered to the immediate needs of the growing population. General merchandise stores, grocery stores, lumber yards, hardware stores, and dry goods emporiums all sprang up to serve the settlers. These establishments provided essential supplies and played a vital role in supporting the community’s development.

Alongside these practical enterprises, several restaurants and the ever-present saloons also emerged. These establishments offered places for social gathering and relaxation, contributing to the vibrant social fabric of the young town. Professionals, including attorneys, physicians, and bankers, also arrived, providing essential services and further solidifying the town’s foundation.

On August 13, 1901, the Choctaw Railroad was completed, marking a significant milestone in the development of Elk City. Just seven days later, the first train service arrived, connecting the town to the wider world and opening up new avenues for trade and transportation. The arrival of the railroad was a transformative event, propelling the town’s growth and solidifying its position as a regional hub.

By January of the following year, Elk City boasted a population of over 1,000 residents and more than 60 businesses. This rapid growth was a testament to the town’s appeal and the opportunities it offered to newcomers. The bustling commercial district included two hotels, several boarding houses, a church, two milling companies, and two cotton gins, reflecting the diverse economic activities that were taking root.

In 1902, even though less than a year old, Elk City began paving its streets with bricks, demonstrating its commitment to progress and improvement. The town had quickly become one of the largest in western Oklahoma, a testament to its strategic location and the entrepreneurial spirit of its residents. This rapid growth and development underscored the town’s potential and set the stage for its continued success.

The railroad and Elk City’s strategic location soon transformed the town into a bustling transportation hub, fueling its continued growth and prosperity. The city became a vital center for commerce and trade, attracting people and businesses from across the region. This strategic advantage allowed Elk City to thrive and solidify its position as a key player in the economic landscape of western Oklahoma.

When Route 66 made its way through town, Elk City embraced the opportunity, providing services and amenities to the travelers along the Mother Road. In 1931, the U.S. Highway 66 Association held its annual convention in Elk City, attracting more than 20,000 attendees. This event showcased the town’s hospitality and its commitment to supporting the iconic highway.

The convention was held at the Casa Grande Hotel, which was touted as the only fireproof hotel between Oklahoma City and Amarillo. Today, this historic hotel houses the Anadarko Basin Museum of Natural History, preserving its legacy as a landmark of the Route 66 era. The Casa Grande Hotel serves as a reminder of Elk City’s rich history and its enduring connection to the Mother Road.

Even when Route 66 was superseded by the interstate highway system, Elk City managed to avoid the economic decline that plagued many other towns along the route, thanks to its diversified economic base. The town’s ability to adapt and thrive in the face of changing circumstances demonstrated its resilience and its commitment to long-term prosperity.

A few years later, the great oil field boom of the early 1980s brought thousands of workers to Elk City, transforming the town into a bustling hub of activity. The influx of oilfield workers created a vibrant, albeit sometimes chaotic, atmosphere, further shaping the town’s character and leaving an indelible mark on its history. One man who worked the rigs described the city during this time as a "wild west boom town" with 20 men for every woman in the community.

Elk City experienced a flurry of building activity during these boom years, as developers rushed to accommodate the influx of new residents. Unfortunately, this period of rapid growth also resulted in the loss of many vintage Route 66 sites. However, the Van Buren area was spared, as it was considered "less desirable" at the time, preserving a valuable glimpse into the town’s past.

Today, Elk City is home to a little more than 10,000 people and offers visitors a captivating glimpse into both the Route 66 era and the Old West at the National Route 66 Museum and the Old Town Museum Complex. These museums, located on Route 66 and Pioneer Street, showcase the rich history and cultural heritage of the area.

Further down Mother Road, you can still see the old Queenan Trading Post, its fading name a ghostly reminder of its past. Though the trading post is now closed, its famous kachinas, which once graced the front of the building, can now be seen on the lawn of the National Route 66 Museum, preserving their legacy for future generations.

On the Van Buren segment, the north/south leg of Route 66, visitors can still glimpse what remains of the Cozy Cabins and the old Red Ball station, offering a poignant reminder of the travelers who once traversed this iconic highway. These remnants of the past serve as tangible links to the Route 66 era and the important role that Elk City played in its history.

After exploring the historical treasures of Elk City, visitors can continue their journey down the Mother Road towards Sayre and the ghost town of Hext, further immersing themselves in the rich history and folklore of western Oklahoma. The journey along Route 66 is a journey through time, offering a unique perspective on the American experience.