Groom, Texas
– An Evening of Inspiration.
…God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. – 2 Corinthians 5.
Groom, Texas, is located along the historic Route 66 and the modern Interstate 40. It is a small town in the Texas Panhandle that invites travelers to pause, reflect, and marvel. This town, though diminutive in size, holds stories of faith, ingenuity, and perseverance. Let’s explore its origins, history, and the fascinating attractions that make it a unique destination, and one of the picks on our Texas bucket list.
Founding and Naming of the Town
The town was founded in the early 1900s as the Chicago, Rock Island, and Gulf Railway expanded its reach across the plains. Like many towns of its era, its growth was closely tied to the railway, which brought settlers, commerce, and opportunity to the region. The name honors Colonel B.B. Groom, a prominent rancher and landowner whose extensive holdings included much of the surrounding area. His influence and contributions to regional development earned him this recognition.
Early History and Development
The early settlers were drawn to the area by the promise of fertile land and the convenience of railway access. Agriculture, particularly wheat and cattle, quickly became the backbone of the local economy. By the 1920s, the town had established itself as a modest yet thriving community, complete with schools, churches, and businesses catering to the needs of farmers and ranchers.
Over the decades, the town experienced fluctuations in prosperity. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s brought challenges, as it did to much of the Great Plains. However, the resilience of its residents ensured its survival. In the mid-20th century, the construction of Interstate 40 ushered in a new era of accessibility, though it also posed challenges to small towns as travelers increasingly bypassed local roads.
The Leaning Tower of Texas
One of the town’s most iconic sights is a quirky relic of roadside Americana: the Leaning Tower of Texas. This water tower, deliberately leaning at an angle, is a clever piece of advertising for a truck stop along Route 66. Its precarious tilt draws the eye and the curiosity of passersby, making it a favorite photo opportunity for travelers. The tower is a nod to the playful spirit of mid-20th-century roadside attractions that once lined the “Mother Road.”
When I visited, I arrived about two hours before sunset. My first stop was the leaning tower. Its comical tilt and the backdrop of wide-open Texas fields and skies provided a perfect introduction to the area. The warm light of late afternoon added a nostalgic glow to the scene, making it an unforgettable start to my journey.
The Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ
The most striking feature of this town is the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Standing 190 feet tall, this monumental structure is visible from miles away and serves as a beacon of inspiration, faith and reflection.
The cross is surrounded by a series of life-sized sculptures depicting scenes from the life and Passion of Jesus Christ. From the Last Supper to the Crucifixion, each depiction invites visitors to meditate on themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption.
As I approached, I was struck by the sheer scale of the cross and detail of the statues. The Last Supper tableau was particularly poignant, with Judas notably absent. This omission serves as a powerful reminder of human frailty and the boundless capacity for forgiveness through Christ. The experience was deeply moving, especially as golden hour approached.
I returned to the cross after an early dinner, hoping to capture some beautiful evening shots. As the sun set, the sky was painted in hues of pink, with a nearly full moon rising. The tranquil beauty of the setting, combined with the spiritual weight of the cross, created a moment of profound peace and reflection. It reminded me of another awe-inspiring scene I once witnessed at Steinhagen Reservoir—a “Morning of Hope” that felt similarly imbued with divine presence.
Present-Day Life
Today, the town remains a small but vibrant community. Agriculture continues to play a central role in its economy, and the town’s location along Interstate 40 ensures a steady flow of visitors.
The Cross and the Leaning Tower draw thousands of tourists annually, offering both spiritual inspiration and lighthearted fun. Local businesses, including diners and shops, cater to travelers while preserving the friendly, welcoming atmosphere of a small Texas town.
The combination of history, faith, and whimsy makes this town a memorable stop for anyone traveling through the Texas Panhandle. Whether you come to marvel at the Leaning Tower, reflect at the Cross, or simply experience the charm of the town itself, there’s a sense of connection—to history, to community, and to something greater.
Reflection and Takeaways
Visiting this town was more than a stop on a long road trip; it was a journey into the heart of what makes Texas’s small towns so special. The Leaning Tower brought a smile, the Cross inspired awe, and the warm welcome of the community left a lasting impression. It’s a place that reminds us of the importance of pausing, looking around, and finding beauty and meaning in both the ordinary and the extraordinary.
As I left, the sight of the sculptures lingered in my mind: messages of love, forgiveness, and reconciliation. We all make mistakes, and asking for forgiveness is the first step towards reconciliation. The love of Christ forgives those who ask. I kept thinking about how fortunate I was to witness the cross illuminated under a full moon and pink skies. For anyone traveling along Interstate 40, this is a must-stop destination—a place where highways, history, and hope converge under the expansive skies of Texas.
Author: Tim Maxwell
