Nestled in the heart of the Texas Panhandle, Groom, Texas, stands as a captivating testament to the enduring spirit of the American West and the legendary allure of Route 66. This small town, with its rich history and remarkable landmarks, offers travelers a unique glimpse into the past and present of this iconic region. Visitors to Groom, Texas, often find themselves drawn to its distinctive attractions, including a famous leaning water tower and a colossal cross.
The Early Roots of Groom, Texas: From Exploration to Railroad Hub
The history of the land now known as Groom, Texas, predates its formal establishment. In 1849, Captain Randolph Barnes Marcy embarked on a significant expedition, exploring and meticulously charting the area. His journey took him from Fort Smith, Arkansas, to Santa Fe, New Mexico, following the Canadian River, and his detailed findings, including maps and illustrations, were later published in his seminal work, The Prairie Traveler: A Handbook for Overland Expeditions. Marcy’s efforts laid the groundwork for future understanding of this vast Texas landscape.
Decades later, in 1882, Colonel B. B. Groom, a seasoned cattleman hailing from Lexington, Kentucky, played a pivotal role in shaping the region. He leased an impressive nearly 600,000 acres across Hutchinson, Carson, Gray, and Roberts Counties in the Texas Panhandle from the New York and Texas Land Company. His ambitious vision led to the formation of the Francklyn Land and Cattle Company, aiming to create one of the nation’s premier cattle ranches. Unfortunately, despite Colonel Groom’s grand aspirations, the company faced financial difficulties and declared bankruptcy four years later. While his ranching empire faltered, his name would forever be etched into the area’s identity. In 1902, the site was strategically chosen to become a station along the vital Chicago, Rock Island, and Gulf Railway route, and it was rightfully named Groom in his honor.
Groom’s Boom and the Mother Road’s Influence
The arrival of the railroad spurred rapid development in the nascent town of Groom. By 1903, essential services like a general store, a post office, and a mercantile store had been established, signaling a growing community. Just three years later, in 1906, Groom boasted a barbershop, a bank, a hotel, a lumberyard, a school, and a flourishing array of new businesses. This period of growth culminated in the town’s incorporation in 1911, with a population exceeding 250 residents. The 1920s brought further prosperity to Groom, as it benefited significantly from the burgeoning oil boom and the steady stream of traffic along the legendary Route 66. Despite these catalysts for expansion, Groom’s population never soared beyond approximately 800 people, maintaining its character as a close-knit community.
During the early days of Route 66, the area east of Groom presented a notorious challenge for travelers: the infamous Jericho Gap. This treacherous stretch of muddy road was known for ensnaring vehicles, creating a thriving business for local service stations, farmers, and ranchers who specialized in pulling stranded cars to safety. Many travelers breathed a collective sigh of relief upon entering the small town of Groom, having successfully navigated or avoided the perilous conditions of the Jericho Gap.
Iconic Landmarks: The Leaning Water Tower and The Groom Cross
Today, Groom maintains its charm as a quiet, sleepy village, home to around 575 people. While many of the services that once catered to the constant flow of Route 66 travelers have since closed, two prominent landmarks continue to draw visitors from across the globe, defining the town’s unique character.
The Whimsical Britten Leaning Water Tower
Located on the east side of Groom, Texas, just off Exit #114 of I-40, stands the iconic Britten Truck Stop, recognizable by its most unusual feature: a deliberately leaning water tower. This once-bustling stop, which included a garage and a restaurant, is now largely a relic of the past, but its tall sign and the peculiar water tower remain. For decades, curious onlookers have pondered the mystery behind the tower’s tilt. Many speculate it was a structural flaw, perhaps a shorter leg, or even the aftermath of a powerful Texas tornado. However, the truth is far more ingenious: the lean was entirely intentional. It was conceived as a clever gimmick, a roadside attraction designed by Ralph Britten to capture the attention of passing travelers and encourage them to stop at his Tower Restaurant and tourist information center to inquire about its fascinating appearance. The water tower itself was originally a functioning structure slated for demolition until Britten purchased and relocated it, cementing its status as a beloved, quirky symbol of Route 66.
The Monumental Groom Cross
Venturing west from the Leaning Water Tower, just south of I-40, lies another profound landmark: the monumental Groom Cross. Standing an astounding 190 feet tall, or 19 stories high, this awe-inspiring structure was the brainchild of Steve Thomas of Pampa, Texas. Built in 1995, Thomas’s motivation stemmed from a desire to make a public profession of faith along I-40, disgusted by the proliferation of explicit adult entertainment billboards lining the interstate. Inspired by a similar cross erected by a rancher in Ballinger, Texas, this colossal symbol of faith was constructed on the private property of Chris Britten.
The construction of the cross was a monumental undertaking, involving over 100 welders who meticulously assembled the frame in two shops located in Pampa. It was triumphantly erected in July 1995 and has since become a beacon visible from up to 20 miles away. At its base, the cross is surrounded by powerful, life-sized statues depicting the Stations of the Cross, inviting contemplation and reverence. Each year, an estimated ten million people pass by this striking landmark, with approximately 1,000 visitors stopping daily to take a closer look, making it a significant spiritual and tourist destination in the Texas Panhandle.
Route 66 Legacy: Preserving the Mother Road’s Path
Beyond Groom’s immediate attractions, the spirit of Route 66 continues to guide travelers. The historic route follows the south frontage road of I-40, eventually joining Texas Highway 207 to Conway, Texas, approximately 16 miles west of Groom. In Conway, Highway 207 turns north, rejoining I-40. This stretch once featured various newer Route 66 establishments, including the old Longhorn Trading Post, two now-closed restaurants, a gas station, and two motels, remnants of a bygone era when the Mother Road thrived.
However, for those seeking the authentic, original path, Route 66 continues its westward journey from Conway’s old townsite, marked by its iconic grain elevators. Here, it follows FM 2161 for a picturesque 7.2 miles before finally rejoining I-40. This particular segment of highway holds significant historical value, earning it a prestigious listing on the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring its preservation for future generations to explore and appreciate.
Conclusion: Groom, Texas – A Small Town with a Big Story
From its earliest days charted by explorers and its foundation by ambitious cattlemen and railroad pioneers, to its enduring role along the legendary Route 66, Groom, Texas, embodies a rich tapestry of American history and ingenuity. While it may be a small town in the vast Texas Panhandle, its iconic landmarks – the charmingly tilted Britten Water Tower and the profoundly inspiring Groom Cross – ensure its place in the hearts and minds of travelers. Groom is more than just a dot on the map; it is a destination where history, faith, and the open road converge, inviting all who pass through to pause, reflect, and experience the unique charm of this remarkable Texas town. Its past is as compelling as its present, continuing to draw visitors eager to discover the stories held within its unassuming streets.
