Shamrock – Oil Boom & Bust
Nestled approximately 13 miles northwest of Depew, Oklahoma, lies the almost-abandoned town of Shamrock. Once a vibrant hub fueled by the roaring oil industry and boasting a population that swelled to nearly 10,000, today, Shamrock stands as a poignant reminder of boom-and-bust cycles, its landscape dotted with crumbling foundations, long-shuttered businesses, and a mere hundred or so residents. The story of Shamrock is a compelling narrative of transformation, from a humble farming community to a bustling oil town and, ultimately, to its present-day state of quiet decline.
The origins of Shamrock trace back to a small farming settlement, its existence officially recognized with the establishment of a post office on July 9, 1910. The town’s name was bestowed by its first postmaster, J.M. Thomas, a nod to his hometown in southern Illinois. In its nascent years, Shamrock was a modest village, supporting two general stores, a restaurant, and a population of just 35 individuals by 1913. Life in this agrarian community likely revolved around the rhythms of the land, with residents engaged in farming and other rural pursuits.
However, the tranquil existence of Shamrock was irrevocably altered with the development of the Cushing Oil Field, beginning just two years later. The discovery of vast oil reserves in the area triggered a dramatic shift in the town’s fortunes. The townsite rapidly migrated to the southern periphery of the oil field, and almost overnight, Shamrock was transformed into a bustling boomtown, attracting prospectors, laborers, and entrepreneurs eager to capitalize on the burgeoning oil industry. Surrounding Shamrock, a constellation of oilfield camps sprouted, each with its own colorful moniker, including Dropright, Gasright, Alright, Downright, Damright, and Justright. These temporary settlements housed the influx of workers and contributed to the frenetic energy that characterized the oil boom era.
As Shamrock blossomed into a thriving oil town, it embraced a distinct Irish identity. When the new town location was surveyed and platted, a deliberate effort was made to infuse the town with Irish character. The main thoroughfare was christened Tipperary Road, and other streets were given names such as Cork, Dublin, Ireland, St. Patrick, and Killarney. Buildings were painted in shades of green, further enhancing the town’s Irish theme, and a Blarney Stone was even acquired, adding a touch of Irish lore. The town’s first newspaper, appropriately named the Shamrock Brogue, further cemented the town’s connection to its Irish namesake.
The economic engine driving Shamrock’s prosperity was the Cushing Oil Field, which soon became one of the most significant oil discoveries of the early 20th century. Located approximately 15 miles northwest of Shamrock, Cushing experienced its own explosive growth, supporting 23 refineries at its peak. The town of Drumright, situated just six miles north of Shamrock, also emerged as a significant player in the oil industry.
By 1915, the Cushing Field was producing an astounding 300,000 barrels of oil per day. By 1919, the Cushing-Drumright area accounted for a remarkable 17 percent of U.S. and three percent of world oil production, solidifying its reputation as the "pipeline crossroads of the world." This concentration of oil production and transportation infrastructure transformed the region into a vital hub for the global oil industry, attracting investment, innovation, and a diverse workforce.
During Shamrock’s oil boom years, the town was known for its lively and often rowdy atmosphere. Gambling halls, saloons, and brothels flourished, catering to the desires of the transient population. The town attracted a mix of characters, from hardworking laborers to unscrupulous opportunists, contributing to a sense of excitement and lawlessness. Noted oilfield entertainer Ruby Darby even graced the town with her presence, performing in a local pool hall and captivating audiences with her performances, which included dancing on a pool table.
However, the prosperity of Shamrock proved to be fleeting. By the mid-1920s, the town’s fortunes began to wane as oilfield workers migrated to new boomtowns in search of fresh opportunities. As the oil boom subsided, stores, pool halls, hotels, and other businesses began to close their doors, signaling the decline of the town. The nearby oilfield camps were gradually abandoned, leaving behind empty buildings and a sense of desolation. Houses were moved to new locations, and business buildings stood vacant, a stark reminder of the town’s former glory.
By 1930, Shamrock’s population had dwindled to approximately 700, a significant decrease from its peak during the oil boom. Despite its decline, Shamrock remained a place of interest, even attracting the attention of notorious criminals. The town’s bank was robbed by Pretty Boy Floyd in 1932, adding a layer of infamy to its history. Floyd was also reportedly seen casing the Depew Bank from the town’s post office, though he never carried out a robbery there.
Although the Cushing Oilfield continued to produce massive amounts of oil, the industry had become increasingly automated, reducing the need for manual labor. By 1979, the cumulative production in the Cushing Oilfield had exceeded 450,000,000 barrels, a testament to the field’s enduring significance. However, the benefits of this continued production did not translate into a resurgence for Shamrock.
Today, Shamrock stands as a quiet testament to its boom-and-bust history. While the town is still home to approximately 100 residents, many of its buildings are decaying and vandalized, bearing the scars of time and neglect. Despite its decline, Shamrock clings to its Irish heritage, hosting an annual St. Patrick’s Day parade that brings a touch of vibrancy to the town. The town also maintains an open post office, a grill, and a grocery store, providing essential services to its remaining residents.
The story of Shamrock serves as a cautionary tale about the cyclical nature of boomtowns and the importance of diversification in economic development. While the oil industry brought prosperity and growth to Shamrock in the early 20th century, its dependence on a single industry ultimately led to its decline. The town’s present-day state is a reminder of the need for communities to adapt and evolve in the face of changing economic landscapes. Despite its struggles, Shamrock retains a certain charm and historical significance, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of oil booms and rugged frontier life.