Foss & Canute, Oklahoma – Beyond Glory Days
Oklahoma, a state etched with the stories of pioneers, boomtowns, and the open road, holds within its borders many communities whose fortunes have risen and fallen with the tides of history. Among these are Foss and Canute, two towns situated in the western part of the state, each bearing the marks of time, progress, and the relentless march of change. This article explores the histories of Foss and Canute, Oklahoma, delving into their origins, periods of prosperity, and the factors that ultimately led to their diminished states, painting a portrait of resilience and remembrance.
Foss: From Turkey Creek to Ghostly Blocks
Located approximately 15 miles west of Clinton, Oklahoma, Foss offers a poignant glimpse into a past shaped by both natural disaster and economic shifts. The town’s origins trace back to the late 1890s when settlers began populating the valley of Turkey Creek. This initial settlement, however, met with tragedy on May 2, 1902, when a devastating flash flood swept through the valley. The floodwaters claimed lives and obliterated much of the fledgling town, scattering its buildings and leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.
Undeterred, the surviving residents resolved to rebuild, but this time on higher ground, away from the capricious Turkey Creek. The new settlement adopted the name Foss, and its fortunes began to rise with the surrounding fertile farmland. By 1905, Foss boasted a population of nearly 1,000, attracting a diverse array of businesses. Two banks, three cotton gins, and various mercantile establishments sprang up to serve the growing community. Solid stone buildings replaced the earlier frame structures, signifying a sense of permanence and prosperity. A school system was established, and several churches were built, reflecting the community’s values and aspirations. By 1912, Foss had further modernized with an electric plant, two hotels catering to travelers, and even an opera house, indicating a thriving cultural scene.
Despite this initial boom, Foss’s growth eventually stabilized around a population of 500. In the 1920s, the town began to face economic headwinds as the larger rail centers of Clinton and Elk City attracted much of the trade that once flowed through Foss. The Great Depression and the Dust Bowl of the 1930s further exacerbated the situation, leading to widespread migration away from the area. Yet, Foss persevered, clinging to its identity and community spirit. A brief revival occurred in the 1950s, fueled by the increased activity at the nearby Air Force Installation at Burns Flat. However, this resurgence proved to be short-lived. The closure of the base coincided with the construction of Interstate 40, which bypassed Foss, effectively severing its connection to the flow of travelers and commerce. The final blow came in September 1977 when the last remaining bank in Foss closed its doors, signaling a significant decline.
Today, Foss stands as a somber reminder of its former vitality. The skeletal remains of Kobel’s Gas Station, which once served as a cafe and bus stop, still stand as a testament to the era of roadside travel. An 1894 Baptist Church building and a pioneer jail also remain, offering glimpses into the town’s architectural and institutional heritage. However, much of Foss has succumbed to the passage of time. Vacant sidewalks line ghostly blocks where businesses once thrived, and only a few homes and foundations mark the locations of former buildings. The echoes of the past resonate in the silence, a stark contrast to the bustling community that once defined Foss.
The legacy of Foss extends beyond its town limits. Nearby is Foss State Park, a 1750-acre park encompassing an 8,800-acre lake. This recreational area offers a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, swimming, boating, water skiing, and fishing, providing a natural escape and a connection to the surrounding landscape. The park serves as a reminder that even as towns fade, the natural beauty of the region endures.
Canute: Route 66 Pride and the King of Denmark
A short distance from Foss lies Canute, another small Oklahoma town with a distinctive history. Established in February 1899 by an independent town company, Canute was named in honor of the King of Denmark, a nod to the settlers’ diverse backgrounds and aspirations. The town initially served the now-defunct Rock Island Railroad, providing essential services and connections to the wider world. However, Canute’s fortunes took a turn for the better with the advent of the automobile and the rise of U.S. Route 66. As the "Mother Road" gained prominence, Canute became a popular stop for travelers, leading to the emergence of numerous tourist-oriented businesses, including gasoline service stations, motels, and restaurants.
During the 1930s, the Work Projects Administration (WPA) played a significant role in Canute’s development, constructing Oklahoma’s first state park on Route 66. This project provided employment opportunities for local residents and enhanced the town’s appeal as a tourist destination. Canute thrived as a vibrant roadside community, offering weary travelers a place to rest, refuel, and experience the unique charm of small-town Oklahoma.
Unfortunately, Canute’s prosperity was not destined to last. In May 1970, Interstate 40 bypassed the town to the north, diverting the flow of traffic and commerce that had sustained its economy. The closure of the nearby Clinton-Sherman Air Force Base at Burns Flat further compounded the situation, leading to the closure of many businesses and a decline in population. Canute faced the same fate as many other Route 66 towns that were left behind by the interstate system.
Despite these challenges, Canute has managed to retain its identity and a sense of community pride. Today, this small town, with a population of just over 500, offers visitors a glimpse into its past. Historical landmarks such as a 1918 jail, the old Cotton Bowl and Washita Motels, the Tip Top nightclub, and Thelma’s Sundries soda shop provide tangible links to Canute’s heyday. The eastern edge of town features an old Catholic cemetery with a replica of the crucifixion scene, reflecting the town’s religious heritage.
Canute showcases its Route 66 pride through the restored Canute Service Station at the junction of Main Street and Route 66. This meticulously preserved landmark serves as a reminder of the town’s connection to the iconic highway and its role in the history of American travel. Canute may be small and past its glory days, but it continues to embrace its heritage and welcome visitors with its unique brand of Oklahoma hospitality.
Foss and Canute: Echoes of the Past, Hopes for the Future
The stories of Foss and Canute, Oklahoma, are intertwined with the broader narrative of the American West. These towns represent the rise and fall of communities shaped by natural forces, economic shifts, and the ever-changing landscape of transportation. While their populations may have dwindled and their economies may have faced challenges, Foss and Canute remain as poignant reminders of a bygone era. The ruins of Foss and Canute stand as testaments to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of community.
As travelers journey through the rolling red hills and farms of western Oklahoma, Foss and Canute offer opportunities for reflection and discovery. The vacant sidewalks of Foss and the restored service station of Canute evoke a sense of nostalgia and a connection to the past. While the glory days may be gone, the stories of these towns continue to resonate, reminding us of the importance of preserving our history and honoring the communities that have shaped our nation.