Historical Marker

Oklahoma Lane

Historical marker location:
Farwell, Texas
( Ten miles east of Farwell, turn north on Hwy 1731, 1 1/2 miles to the Oklahoma Lane Cemetery)
Marker installed: 2010
Marker size: 18" x 28"

The Oklahoma Lane Community, named for the many area settlers who came from that state, was originally part of the XIT Tanch. Families began to settle here around 1915 when the Capitol Reservation Lands Company began to sell XIT ranch land. Most residents in the area were employed in agricultural and ranching activities. As many young families moved here, schools became necessary. The Sunnyside and Knox schools, which later consolidated into the Oklahoma School, served the early residents. By the 1920s, residents began Methodist and Baptist churches, and in 1925, the Capitol Lane Syndicate established a cemetery. Today, Oklahoma Lanes continues to be a tightly-knit, rural community

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

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Texas random facts
Parmer County, located in the Panhandle region of Texas, has a rich history dating back to the time of the Native American tribes who once inhabited the area. Prior to European settlement, the Apache and Comanche tribes roamed the plains of Parmer County, utilizing the fertile land for hunting and gathering.

In the late 19th century, as the railroad expanded westward, Parmer County saw an influx of settlers from various backgrounds. The county was officially established in 1876, named after Martin Parmer, a veteran of the American Revolution. The county seat was established in Farwell in 1907, which remains its central town today.

Agriculture has always played a significant role in Parmer County's economy. In the early days, farmers relied on dryland farming, cultivating crops such as wheat, corn, oats, and cotton. However, the lack of water posed a significant challenge, which was addressed with the development of irrigation systems in the early 20th century. This led to a boom in the production of high-quality crops, such as cantaloupes, watermelons, and peanuts.

Parmer County has also experienced its fair share of hardships. The Great Depression in the 1930s hit the county hard, and many farmers struggled to make ends meet. However, with measures like the New Deal programs and advancements in farming technology, the county was able to gradually recover.

Today, Parmer County continues to be a vibrant agricultural region, with its fertile soil supporting a variety of crops and livestock. The county also offers recreational activities, historical landmarks, and a sense of community that reflects its diverse and resilient past.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Parmer County, Texas.

  • 1876 - Parmer County is established on August 21, 1876.
  • 1887 - Bovina is founded as the first settlement in the county.
  • 1890 - The county's population is recorded at 307 people.
  • 1900 - Parmer County's population grows to 1,285 residents.
  • 1906 - Friona is established as a new town in the county.
  • 1912 - The first courthouse in the county is completed in Farwell.
  • 1917 - Farwell becomes the county seat.
  • 1955 - Bovina becomes an incorporated city.
  • 1970s - The county's population exceeds 10,000 due to increased farming and production.
  • 1989 - The Parmer County Wind Energy Association is formed to utilize wind power resources in the area.