Waddell's Station facts for kids

Quick facts for kids
Waddell's Station Site
U.S. National Register of Historic Places
Location in Oklahoma Show map of Oklahoma Location in the United States Show map of the United States
Nearest city	Wesley, Oklahoma
Area	1 acre (0.40 ha)
Built	1858
NRHP reference No.	72001054
Added to NRHP	April 13, 1972

Waddell's Station was an important stop along the old Butterfield Overland Mail route. This was a famous mail and passenger service in the 1800s. The station was located in what is now Atoka County, Oklahoma. This area was once known as Indian Territory.

People sometimes mix up Waddell's Station with Roger's Station. Roger's Station was a different stop built after the American Civil War. It was about three miles (5 km) east of Waddell's.

What Was Waddell's Station?

Waddell's Station was a "stage stand." This means it was a place where stagecoaches could stop. Stagecoaches were like old-time buses. They carried mail, packages, and people across the country.

At a stage stand, travelers could rest. Horses could be changed for fresh ones. This helped the stagecoaches travel long distances quickly. Waddell's Station was built in 1858.

The Butterfield Overland Mail Route

The Butterfield Overland Mail was a very long route. It stretched from the eastern United States all the way to California. It was the first major overland mail service.

The route helped connect different parts of the country. It made it easier to send letters and news. It also helped people travel safely across the frontier.

Why Was Waddell's Station Important?

Waddell's Station was a key part of this route. It provided a necessary stop for travelers and mail carriers. Without these stops, the long journey would have been impossible.

The station helped keep the mail moving. It also offered a safe place for people to stay. It played a small but important role in American history.

Waddell's Station Today

Waddell's Station is no longer a working stage stand. However, its historical importance is still recognized. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.

The National Register of Historic Places is a list. It includes buildings, sites, and objects important to American history. Being on this list helps protect the site. It reminds us of the past.

The site of Waddell's Station covers about one acre. It is privately owned today. It serves as a reminder of the early days of mail delivery.