Afton, Oklahoma – Fading Into History
Nestled in the southwestern corner of Ottawa County, Oklahoma, lies the town of Afton, a community steeped in history and tinged with the melancholic beauty of a bygone era. Once a bustling hub along the famed Route 66, Afton, Oklahoma stands today as a testament to the ebb and flow of time, a place where echoes of the past resonate amidst the quietude of the present. Founded in 1886, this small town offers a poignant glimpse into the evolution of the American heartland, from its agricultural roots to its heyday as a Mother Road destination and its subsequent decline.
The story of Afton, Oklahoma begins long before the roar of engines on Route 66. Its origins can be traced back to 1871, when the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad laid tracks through the Cherokee Nation, connecting the area to Vinita, Oklahoma. This marked the genesis of a small farming settlement, drawing settlers to the fertile, black soil along the banks of Horse Creek. The community thrived on agriculture, its prosperity nurtured by the rich land that promised bountiful harvests.
In 1886, a significant milestone was reached when a post office was established, officially marking the birth of Afton, Oklahoma. The town owes its name to a Scottish railroad surveyor, who, in a gesture of paternal affection, christened it after his daughter, Afton. The name itself carries a lyrical quality, borrowed from the River Afton in Scotland, immortalized in the verses of Robert Burns’s evocative poem. This connection to Scottish heritage adds a layer of romanticism to the town’s identity, a subtle reminder of the diverse origins that shaped the American West.
The dawn of the 20th century brought a period of rapid growth and prosperity to Afton, Oklahoma. By 1900, the town boasted a population of around 600, a number that swelled dramatically the following year with the arrival of the Kansas City, Fort Scott, and Memphis Railroad. With two major rail lines converging within its borders, Afton transformed into a busy railroad center, a vital artery connecting the region to broader networks of commerce and transportation.
By 1910, Afton’s population had more than doubled, reaching 1,279 residents. The town was experiencing a veritable boom, its infrastructure expanding to accommodate the growing influx of people and businesses. New school buildings rose to educate the burgeoning population, while two hotels offered lodging to travelers passing through. Two banks provided financial stability, a brick and tile plant fueled construction, and a creamery supported the dairy industry. Afton even had its own newspaper, keeping residents informed and connected. Mills, grain elevators, and a large waterworks further testified to the town’s burgeoning economy and civic progress.
Agriculture and ranching remained cornerstones of Afton’s economy, complementing the burgeoning railroad industry. The town became a vital trading center for the surrounding agricultural region, facilitating the exchange of goods and services between farmers, ranchers, and merchants. By 1920, Afton was home to approximately 1,500 people, a testament to its continued growth and prosperity. However, the post-World War I era brought an agricultural depression, causing the population to dip back down to around 1,200.
The year 1926 marked a pivotal moment in Afton’s history, as Route 66, the "Mother Road," was established, slicing right through the heart of the town. This legendary highway, stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles, transformed Afton into a haven for travelers, a place where weary motorists could find respite and rejuvenation. Service stations sprang up to cater to the needs of automobiles, while motor courts offered comfortable lodging for those seeking a night’s rest.
During the Route 66 era, Afton became known for one particularly unique attraction: the Buffalo Ranch. This roadside oasis offered visitors a chance to encounter not only buffalo but also llamas, yaks, and a petting zoo, providing a memorable and entertaining experience for travelers of all ages. The Buffalo Ranch also featured a barbeque restaurant, serving up hearty meals that delighted hungry motorists. The allure of the Buffalo Ranch, coupled with the convenience of its location on Route 66, made Afton a popular tourist stop, bolstering the town’s economy and reputation.
Adding to Afton’s appeal was the creation of Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees in 1940, located nearby. This vast reservoir provided opportunities for recreation, attracting tourists and boosting the local economy. Boating, skiing, fishing, swimming, and sailing became popular pastimes, drawing visitors from far and wide to enjoy the lake’s scenic beauty and abundant recreational opportunities.
These attractions helped Afton, Oklahoma maintain a stable population of around 1,200 for several decades. However, the completion of Interstate 44 in 1957, which bypassed the town, marked the beginning of a slow decline. As travelers increasingly opted for the faster, more direct route of the interstate, businesses that had once thrived on Route 66 began to struggle.
Over the ensuing years, many of Afton’s iconic Route 66 establishments were forced to close their doors. The Palmer Hotel, Rogers’ Motel, Rest Haven Motel, and Green Acres Motel, all once bustling with activity, gradually faded into disrepair. The Buffalo Ranch, a beloved landmark for generations of travelers, closed down in 1997, marking a significant loss for the town’s identity. Today, the site of the Buffalo Ranch is occupied by the Buffalo Ranch Travel Center convenience store, a modern establishment that offers a glimpse of the past with an occasional buffalo or two grazing on the premises. The historic Palmer Hotel, built in 1911, suffered a devastating fire on July 1, 2020, further diminishing the town’s architectural heritage.
Despite the challenges it has faced, Afton has managed to retain a population of around 1,000 residents. Though many of its businesses have vanished, leaving a sense of quietude in their wake, the town continues to offer glimpses of its vibrant past. Several examples of classic Route 66 roadside architecture remain, serving as reminders of Afton’s glory days.
One of the most notable landmarks is the former 1937 D-X gas station, which has been beautifully restored as the Afton Station and Packard Car Museum. This meticulously preserved structure serves as a visitor center, providing information and guidance to travelers exploring Route 66. However, the building went on the auction market after the death of its owners in June 2019, leaving its future uncertain.
Other remnants of Afton’s Route 66 heritage include the remains of the old Rest Haven Motel, where countless travelers once rested their heads. The decaying Palmer Hotel and Bassett’s 1922 Grocery Store stand as silent witnesses to the town’s past, while the Avon Motel, located further west, exudes a haunting beauty in its state of disrepair.
Just a short drive southwest of Afton, along Highway 59, lies Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees, offering a welcome respite from the road. Visitors can enjoy boating, skiing, fishing, swimming, and sailing on the lake’s pristine waters. Across the lake in Grove, Oklahoma, is Har-Ber Village, one of the largest antique museums in the United States. This reconstructed turn-of-the-century village features over one hundred buildings and a vast collection of artifacts, offering a fascinating glimpse into America’s past.
Afton, Oklahoma stands as a poignant reminder of the rise and fall of communities along Route 66. While the town may have faded from its former prominence, its history and charm continue to captivate those who take the time to explore its streets. As visitors wander through Afton, they can sense the echoes of a bygone era, a time when the Mother Road was the lifeblood of the nation and small towns like Afton thrived as havens for travelers. While time and progress have inevitably taken their toll, the spirit of Afton, Oklahoma endures, a testament to the resilience and enduring appeal of the American heartland.