Stroud Oklahoma

Train Depot,
Stroud, Oklahoma
1915

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Downtown Stroud
About 1907

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Oak Grove School
Stroud, Oklahoma
1907-08

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The Russell Elijah Stone Homestead
Stroud, Oklahoma

 

The photos on this page were contributed by
Judy Stevens of Santa Ana, California
(e-mail at kifu42@yahoo.com)

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Stroud, Oklahoma, founded in 1892 by James W. Stroud, began as a post office and store, quickly relocating to become a railroad town. Situated on historic Route 66 between Tulsa and Oklahoma City, it evolved from an early 20th-century cotton center into a landmark stop known for the iconic 1939 Rock Café.
Foundation (1892): James W. Stroud established a store and post office on his homestead. The town moved roughly one mile east to its current location to align with the routing of the Arkansas and Oklahoma Railroad.
Early Development: Before 1907, Stroud was known as one of the Oklahoma Territory's "whiskey towns." It was an early center for cotton farming, boasting a population of 1,312 at the time of statehood.
Route 66 and the Rock Café: As a vital stop on Route 66, the town grew as a hub for travelers. The historic Rock Café, built in 1939 using rocks from the road's construction, remains a centerpiece of the town's history.
Cultural History: The town was served by The Stroud Star newspaper from 1898 to 1907. In 1901, following a race riot, the town became known as a "sundown town," a part of its history that has influenced its development.
Modern Stroud: Today, Stroud is recognized for its connection to Route 66, with attractions such as local diners, museums, and a historic downtown area, serving as a reminder of its early 20th-century roots.