May, Oklahoma: A Glimpse into a Semi-Ghost Town’s Past and Present

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May, Oklahoma: A Glimpse into a Semi-Ghost Town's Past and Present

May, Oklahoma: A Glimpse into a Semi-Ghost Town’s Past and Present

Nestled in the southern reaches of Harper County, Oklahoma, lies the town of May, a place where the echoes of a vibrant past resonate amidst the quietude of a present-day semi-ghost town. Its story, intertwined with the opening of the Cherokee Outlet in 1893, unfolds as a testament to the ebb and flow of fortune that has shaped countless communities across the American landscape.

The Dawn of May: A Settlement Takes Root

The genesis of May can be traced back to John H. Porterfield, an enterprising individual hailing from Illinois. Recognizing the potential of this newly accessible territory, Porterfield established a store on what would become the townsite. In a gesture of paternal affection, he christened the settlement "May" in honor of his daughter, Jessie May. This humble store marked the initial spark of a community that would soon attract settlers seeking new opportunities in the vast expanse of Oklahoma.

The establishment of a post office in July 1896 solidified May’s status as a budding settlement. John H. Porterfield, the town’s founding father, was appointed as the inaugural postmaster, further cementing his role in shaping the community’s early development. With a formal postal service in place, May gained a vital link to the outside world, facilitating communication and trade that would be crucial for its growth.

From Hamlet to Hub: The Town Flourishes

The year 1902 marked a significant milestone in May’s evolution, as the town was formally platted, laying the groundwork for its physical structure and future expansion. This deliberate planning reflected the growing confidence of the residents and their aspirations for a thriving community.

A decade later, in the spring of 1912, May experienced another transformative event with the completion of the Wichita Falls and Northwestern Railway, a subsidiary of the Missouri, Kansas, and Texas Railway. This railway connection transformed May into a vital wheat-shipping point, injecting new life into its economy. Farmers from the surrounding areas could now efficiently transport their harvests to market, bolstering the town’s commercial significance.

Incorporation and Ascendancy: May Reaches Its Zenith

On November 3, 1913, May officially incorporated as a town, signifying its maturity and self-governance. This marked a pivotal moment in the community’s history, empowering its residents to shape their own destiny.

During this period of growth, May boasted a diverse array of businesses and institutions, reflecting its burgeoning prosperity. The May State Bank stood as a symbol of financial stability, while the Cottage and Keystone hotels provided accommodation for travelers and visitors. The C. B. Cozart Grain Company, along with a grain elevator, facilitated the efficient handling of agricultural products. A feed barn catered to the needs of livestock, and the May Restaurant and City Meat Market provided sustenance for the town’s inhabitants.

Recognizing the importance of education, the community constructed a two-story brick school building, demonstrating their commitment to nurturing future generations. Local newspapers, such as the May Monitor, the May Bugle, and the May Record, served as vital sources of information and community engagement.

In 1920, May reached its population peak at 324 residents, a testament to its thriving economy and attractive quality of life. The town stood as a beacon of prosperity in the region, drawing people seeking opportunities and a sense of community.

Challenges and Decline: A Shift in Fortune

Despite its initial success, May faced its share of challenges in the years that followed. Located south of the North Canadian River and east of Otter Creek, the town was frequently subjected to flooding, which caused damage to property and disrupted daily life. These natural disasters tested the resilience of the community and posed obstacles to its continued growth.

The onset of the Great Depression in the 1930s brought economic hardship to May, as it did to countless communities across the nation. The population gradually declined, from 258 in 1930 to 239 in 1940, as residents sought opportunities elsewhere.

Wartime Exodus and Postwar Transformation

World War II further accelerated May’s decline, as many residents joined the military or sought employment in war-related industries. This exodus continued into the postwar years, leading to the closure of businesses and a further reduction in population. By 1950, May was home to only 143 people.

The closure of the high school in 1957 marked a significant loss for the community, as it symbolized the shrinking opportunities for young people in May. The town’s population continued to dwindle, dropping to just 91 by 1970. The May School District was subsequently divided among Laverne, Fort Supply, and Gage, further diminishing the town’s autonomy.

The abandonment of the Missouri, Kansas, & Texas Railway in 1972 dealt another blow to May’s economy, as it severed a vital transportation link that had been crucial for its development.

May Today: A Quiet Existence

Today, May is home to approximately 40 residents, a stark contrast to its bustling past. While the town may have diminished in size and activity, it still retains a sense of community and a connection to its rich history.

May continues to operate a post office, a testament to its enduring presence on the map. A church provides a place of worship and spiritual solace for the community. A grain elevator stands as a reminder of the town’s agricultural heritage, and a smattering of homes provide shelter for its residents.

Situated at the intersection of State Highway 46 and U.S. Highway 270, May lies 21 miles southwest of Buffalo, the Harper County seat. Its location, while somewhat remote, offers a peaceful and tranquil environment for those who call it home.

A Legacy of Resilience

May, Oklahoma, stands as a poignant example of the cyclical nature of communities in America. From its humble beginnings as a settlement following the Cherokee Outlet Opening to its peak as a thriving wheat-shipping point, and its subsequent decline, May’s story reflects the challenges and triumphs of countless small towns across the nation.

While May may no longer be the bustling hub it once was, it retains a unique charm and a connection to its rich history. Its residents, though few in number, embody a spirit of resilience and a deep appreciation for their community’s past. May, Oklahoma, may be a semi-ghost town, but its story continues to resonate, reminding us of the enduring power of community and the ever-changing landscape of the American heartland.

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