Alanreed, Texas – Gone Are the Glory Days
Nestled seven miles west of McLean, Texas, along the historic path of old Route 66, lies the town of Alanreed. Today, it exists as a poignant reminder of a bygone era, a place where the echoes of a vibrant past resonate amidst the quietude of the present. The construction of Interstate 40, a modern artery bypassing the old road, signaled the end of Alanreed’s glory days. Yet, a detour to this almost ghost town offers a glimpse into what life must have been like when it thrived as a lively beacon along the legendary Mother Road.
The story of Alanreed begins in the early 1880s, along a stage line connecting Mobeetie and Clarendon. Recognizing the potential of the location, farmers envisioned a town sprouting from the fertile plains. In 1884, the Clarendon Land and Cattle Company initiated the sale of land parcels, laying the foundation for a future settlement. Two years later, a post office was established in nearby Eldridge, approximately six miles north of the present-day site of Alanreed. The early settlers, a mix of farmers and "cow-punchers," apparently struggled to agree on a name for their budding community. Historical records reveal a colorful array of proposed names, including Springtown, Spring Tank, Prairie Dog Town, Rusty Shanks, and even the rather evocative "Gouge Eye."
The official establishment of the townsite occurred in 1900, spearheaded by surveyors from the Choctaw, Oklahoma, and Texas Railroad. The name "Alanreed" was chosen, derived from the contracting firm responsible for the railroad work, Alan and Reed. G. E. Castleberry’s Land Company swiftly began selling parcels of land for the remarkably low price of $2.25 per acre, attracting new residents eager to build a life in this promising location.
The burgeoning community quickly established essential infrastructure. In 1901, the first school was erected, providing education for the growing number of children. Just a year later, the post office was relocated from Eldridge and officially renamed Alanreed, solidifying the town’s identity. The completion of the Rock Island Railroad in 1903 proved to be a pivotal moment for Alanreed, transforming it into a significant shipping point for cattle. By 1904, Alanreed had blossomed into the largest town in Gray County, a testament to its strategic location and thriving agricultural economy. In the same year, the Alanreed Baptist Church was founded, a testament to the community’s strong faith and values. Remarkably, this church continues to stand and serve its congregation to this day, holding the distinction of being the oldest church along the Texas stretch of Route 66.
By 1907, Alanreed was a thriving hub of activity, boasting a diverse range of businesses and services. A bank provided financial stability, while a hotel offered accommodation for travelers and visitors. Two churches catered to the spiritual needs of the residents, and a saloon offered a place for socializing and relaxation. Two grocery stores ensured access to essential supplies, and a hardware store provided tools and equipment. A livery stable offered services related to horses and transportation, and a blacksmith shop catered to the needs of the agricultural community. In 1912, a new two-story school was constructed, reflecting the town’s commitment to education and its growing population. By 1917, Alanreed had a population of 250, enjoying the benefits of modern telephone service, connecting them to the wider world.
The 1920s brought further prosperity to Alanreed, fueled by two significant developments. The Panhandle Oil Boom brought an influx of workers and investment, boosting the local economy. Simultaneously, the designation of Route 66 as a major highway brought increased traffic and visibility to the town. At its peak, Alanreed was home to approximately 500 residents, a bustling community eager to capitalize on the opportunities presented by these transformative events. Like its neighbor McLean, Alanreed harbored ambitions of becoming the county seat, but these bids proved unsuccessful.
However, the boom times were not destined to last. By 1929, the initial surge of prosperity began to wane. Both the hotel and the bank, once symbols of Alanreed’s success, were forced to close their doors, signaling a shift in the town’s fortunes. In 1930, the Alanreed school was consolidated with three other area schools, reflecting a decline in the student population. By 1933, Alanreed’s population had dwindled to just 150, a significant drop from its peak just a few years earlier.
The subsequent decades saw the number of residents fluctuate, but the overall trend was one of decline. Businesses gradually closed, and the town’s once-vibrant atmosphere began to fade. By 1977, only about 60 residents remained, with no operating businesses to sustain the community. Today, Alanreed is a shadow of its former self, existing as a near ghost town with a population of approximately 50 residents and only one operating business.
Despite its diminished state, Alanreed still holds a certain allure for those who venture off the beaten path. As you approach the town, you will pass the oldest cemetery on the Texas stretch of Route 66, located to the south. The weathered headstones serve as silent witnesses to the lives and stories of those who once called Alanreed home. Continuing down the curving road, you’ll find the restored Bradley Kiser Super "66" Service Station on the left-hand side. Maintained by the Texas Historic Route 66 Association, this gas station, built in 1930, provides a tangible link to the town’s past and serves as a popular photo opportunity for travelers seeking a glimpse of Route 66 history. Adjacent to the gas station stands an unmarked brick automotive garage, a further reminder of the town’s automotive heritage. Scattered throughout the small community are several abandoned homes and buildings, their decaying facades offering a poignant glimpse into a bygone era.
A short distance further up the road, on the right, is the oldest church on the Texas Route, founded in 1904. This enduring landmark stands as a symbol of faith and resilience, a testament to the enduring spirit of the community. Unfortunately, the once-popular Regal Reptile Ranch is no longer in operation, but memories of this quirky attraction linger in the minds of those who remember its existence. As you approach I-40, you’ll find the Crockett Service Station and Motel, which also functions as a small trading post and a post office, providing essential services to the remaining residents and travelers passing through.
Alanreed is situated on Old Route 66 at the intersection of I-40 and FM 291, seven miles west of McLean, Texas, and 59 miles east of Amarillo in Gray County. For those wishing to explore more of Route 66, west of Alanreed, just beyond the I-40 on-ramp, Route 66 continues paved for 2.3 miles before arriving at Johnson Ranch Road (exit 132), where you should re-enter I-40 to continue your journey. While Alanreed’s glory days may be long gone, the town remains a fascinating destination for those interested in history, Route 66, and the enduring spirit of small-town America. The story of Alanreed serves as a reminder of the transformative power of progress and the importance of preserving the memories of the past.