Aldridge, Texas facts for kids

Aldridge, Texas is a fascinating ghost town located in Jasper County. A ghost town is a place where most people have left, often because the main reason for the town's existence disappeared. Aldridge was once a busy place, with its economy built around the lumber industry.

What Happened to Aldridge?

Aldridge's story is a common one for many towns that depended on a single industry. The town was connected by the Burr's Ferry, Browndell, and Chester Railroad. This railroad was very important for moving wood from the local forests.

The Sawmill and Its Challenges

The heart of Aldridge's economy was its sawmill. A sawmill is a factory where logs are cut into lumber. However, during the 1910s, the sawmill in Aldridge faced big problems. It actually burned down more than once! This was a huge setback for the town and its people.

Running Out of Trees

By 1927, the main reason for Aldridge's existence was gone. The local forests had been mostly cut down, meaning there wasn't enough wood left to keep the lumber industry going. Because of this, the railroad line that ran through Aldridge was abandoned. Without the sawmill and the railroad, people started to leave, turning Aldridge into the ghost town it is today.