Clarkson, Oklahoma facts for kids

Clarkson was once a small community located north of the Cimarron River in what is now Payne County, Oklahoma. It was a short-lived settlement, existing for only about 13 years. Today, Clarkson is considered a "ghost town" because most of its buildings and people are gone, with only a cemetery remaining as a trace of its past.

Clarkson: A Lost Oklahoma Town

Clarkson was a small but active community during its time. It played a part in the early history of Oklahoma Territory, a period when many new towns were being formed.

Who founded Clarkson?

Clarkson was founded by a group of people called the Dunkers. The Dunkers are a Christian group known for their simple way of life and strong community ties. They helped establish Clarkson as a place where their community could live and grow together.

What happened to Clarkson's post office?

A very important part of any early community was its post office. The Clarkson post office first opened on January 31, 1890. Its first postmaster, who was in charge of all the mail, was Grant T. Johnson. The post office helped connect Clarkson residents to the outside world. However, the post office eventually closed on February 28, 1903, which often signaled the decline of a small town.

An incident at Clarkson's store

On January 3, 1894, an event happened at the community store and post office in Clarkson. Members of a group known as the Doolin Gang visited the store. During this incident, they took various items, including supplies, tobacco, money, and registered mail. This event is a notable part of Clarkson's brief history.

What remains of Clarkson today?

Even though Clarkson is no longer an active town, it has not completely vanished. The only remaining sign of the community today is its cemetery. Cemeteries often serve as important historical markers, reminding us of the people and places that once existed.