Follett, Texas
– Gateway to the Golden Spread.
In 1917, Follett, a small community in the Texas Panhandle emerged thanks to the North Texas and Santa Fe Railway. This railway expansion not only brought infrastructure but also a new town named after Horace Follett, the engineer who played a key role in its establishment. With the arrival of the railroad, this budding settlement became a focal point for commerce and communication in the area.
A Historical Glimpse
The early days of the town revolved around agriculture and ranching. The railway provided a vital link for local farmers and ranchers to send their goods to larger markets, and in return, the town became a supply center for the surrounding countryside. By the 1920s, a thriving community began to take shape with schools, churches, and businesses supporting its residents.
The Dust Bowl years of the 1930s brought challenges to the town, as they did to much of the Panhandle. Despite hardships, the resilience of the community ensured its survival through difficult times. Over the decades, the town remained small but tightly knit, a characteristic it continues to embody today.
Interesting Facts
Location and Geography: Situated in Lipscomb County, this Panhandle town lies near the Oklahoma border, surrounded by vast plains that characterize the region.
Nickname: Often referred to as the “Gateway to the Golden Spread,” the town holds a symbolic position at the western edge of the Texas Panhandle, an area known for its expansive farmland and unique beauty.
Temperature Extremes: Its semi-arid climate can be harsh. Historical records include temperatures as high as 112°F and as low as -18°F, showcasing the area’s environmental extremes.
Population Insights: While its size has fluctuated over the years, the population today hovers around 400, a number that highlights the intimate scale of life in the town.
Cultural Legacy: The town has long been home to families whose histories are tied to the land, giving the area a sense of continuity and tradition.
Modern-Day Life
Today, the town continues to thrive as a hub for agriculture, with farming and ranching playing prominent roles in the local economy. The Follett Independent School District serves as an anchor for the community, emphasizing education and local engagement. Though small in population, the town boasts a vibrant spirit that mirrors the tenacity of its residents.
Life here is marked by a slower pace, where residents enjoy the open skies and the camaraderie of knowing their neighbors. Events and gatherings remain important, providing opportunities to strengthen bonds and celebrate traditions that have been passed down for generations.
The Road Ahead
Follett may not be a bustling metropolis, but it carries with it stories of perseverance and adaptation.
Its history as a railway town turned agricultural community is a testament to the resilience of small towns across the American landscape. As it moves forward, this Panhandle community continues to embrace its heritage while finding ways to thrive in an ever-changing world.
