National Register of Historic Places listings in Oldham County, Texas facts for kids
Welcome to Oldham County, Texas! This area is home to many special places that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These are sites that are important because of their history, archaeology, or unique architecture. They help us learn about the past and understand how people lived long ago.
In Oldham County, many of these historic spots are ancient sites where early people lived. Others are more recent, like buildings from the 20th century. Protecting these places helps us save history for future generations.
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What is the National Register of Historic Places?
The National Register of Historic Places is like a special list of important historical sites in the United States. It's managed by the National Park Service. When a place is added to this list, it means it's recognized as significant for its history, architecture, engineering, or archaeology.
Being on the National Register helps protect these places. It also makes them eligible for certain grants or tax benefits. It encourages people to preserve and learn about these valuable parts of our heritage.
Discovering Oldham County's Historic Sites
Oldham County has several fascinating places on the National Register. Many of them are ancient sites, showing us where people lived thousands of years ago. Their exact locations are often kept secret to protect them from damage.
Ancient Camps and Settlements
Many of the listed sites in Oldham County are archaeological. This means they are places where scientists have found clues about ancient human activity. These sites include:
- Chavez City Ruins (41OL253): An ancient settlement.
- Chavez Suburbs East and West (41OL254): More areas connected to the Chavez City site.
- Green No. 5 (41OL257): Another important ancient spot.
- Griffin Site (41OL246): A place with signs of early human life.
- Mansfield I (41OL50): An archaeological site.
- Maston I (41OL256): Another significant ancient location.
- Maston No. 52 (41OL235): A site that tells us about past inhabitants.
- Stone Corrals No. 1-6 (41OL250): These might be old corrals or enclosures made of stone.
These sites give archaeologists clues about how early people lived, hunted, and built communities in this part of Texas.
Unique Historical Features
Oldham County also has some unique historical features that stand out:
- Landergin Mesa: This is a very important archaeological site. It's so special that it's also a National Historic Landmark. This means it has exceptional national historical significance.
- Maston No. 13 Stone Wall (41OL249): This site features an ancient stone wall, which is a rare find and offers insights into early construction.
- Rocky Dell: This site is known for its pictographs (rock paintings) and petroglyphs (rock carvings). These artworks were created by Native Americans long ago and tell stories or record events from their lives.
The Historic Vega Motel
Not all historic places are ancient! Some are more recent, but still very important to local history.
- Vega Motel: Located at 1005 Vega Blvd. in Vega, Texas, this motel was built in 1947. It's a classic example of the motels that popped up along U.S. Route 66. Route 66 was a famous highway that stretched across the country. The Vega Motel served travelers heading west or east, offering a place to rest during their long journeys. It's a cool reminder of the golden age of road trips!
Why are these places important?
These historic places in Oldham County are like windows to the past. They help us understand:
- How people lived: From ancient hunters to travelers on Route 66.
- Local heritage: They connect us to the stories and events that shaped the area.
- Education: They offer amazing opportunities to learn about archaeology, history, and culture.
- Preservation: Listing them on the National Register helps ensure they are protected for future generations to enjoy and study.
By learning about these sites, we can appreciate the rich and diverse history of Oldham County, Texas.
| Name on the Register | Image | Date listed | Location | City or town | Description | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chavez City Ruins (41OL253) |
(#84001925) |
Address Restricted |
Amarillo | ||
| 2 | Chavez Suburbs East and West (41OL254) |
(#84001928) |
Address Restricted |
Amarillo | ||
| 3 | Green No. 5 (41OL257) |
(#84001936) |
Address Restricted |
Amarillo | ||
| 4 | Griffin Site (41OL246) |
(#84001938) |
Address Restricted |
Amarillo | ||
| 5 | Landergin Mesa |
(#66000821) |
Address Restricted |
Vega | ||
| 6 | Mansfield I (41OL50) |
(#84001940) |
Address Restricted |
Amarillo | ||
| 7 | Maston I (41OL256) |
(#84001942) |
Address Restricted |
Amarillo | ||
| 8 | Maston No. 13 Stone Wall (41OL249) |
(#84001945) |
Address Restricted |
Adrian | ||
| 9 | Maston No. 52 (41OL235) |
(#84001948) |
Address Restricted |
Amarillo | ||
| 10 | Rocky Dell |
(#72001370) |
Address Restricted |
Adrian | ||
| 11 | Stone Corrals No. 1-6 (41OL250) |
(#84001951) |
Address Restricted |
Amarillo | ||
| 12 | Vega Motel |
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(#06000926) |
1005 Vega Blvd. 35°14′33″N 102°25′46″W / 35.242544°N 102.429357°W |
Vega |
