Oklahoma is the 19th largest state by area, covering 68,577.8 square miles. It is the 28th most populous state, with almost 4 million residents. Oklahoma is bordered by Missouri, Colorado, Arkansas, Kansas, New Mexico, and Texas. Oklahoma metropolis, the Sooner State’s capital, and largest metropolis, has a population of approximately 700,000.
Oklahoma has several additional big cities, including Tulsa, Norman, and Broken Arrow. Despite the number of large cities in the state, Oklahoma has its fair share of little towns, many of which have fewer than 100 residents. Beyond them, there is one village that is smaller than the rest: Hoot Owl. Its population is nil. How could this be? Let’s explore Hoot Owl, Oklahoma’s tiniest town.
Where is the Smallest City in Oklahoma?
Hoot Owl is found in Mayes County. The town has 64 acres. According to maps, Hoot Owl links to Hoot Owl Road, which is off Oklahoma 20. The tiny, dead-end road leading to Lake Hudson and Hoot Owl is known as No. 443.5.
There is no signage directing visitors to the town. There is also no welcoming sign. Despite what appears to be ghost town status, Hoot Owl is still listed as an incorporated town. In 2010, the United States census reported a population of four. However, the 2020 United States census revealed that the population has declined, and no one now lives there.
History of the Hoot Owl
When the town’s creator, William R. Bradley Jr., his wife, and their son incorporated their property in 1977, Hoot Owl was born. The idea was to prevent hunters and other towns from entering their 36-acre property.
Bradley submitted an application to dissolve the town in 1992, citing a bank foreclosure. The bank went to court to contest the dissolution. In 1993, the Mayes County District Court found in favor of the bank. So the village survives, even if Bradley and his son, the last two full-time residents, moved away years ago.
The Hoot Owl population peaked at five in 1990. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, it had decreased to zero in April 2000. According to the 2010 US census, the population increased to four. Finally, the 2020 census revealed that the population had decreased again to zero. Now it is Oklahoma’s smallest town with no residents.
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Lotsee is the Second Smallest Town in Oklahoma.
Lotsee, Oklahoma’s second-smallest town, has six residents, according to the 2020 United States Census. The town is located in Tulsa County.
Lotsee was established in 1963 by George Campbell, the proprietor of Flying G Ranch. This family-owned cattle and pecan ranch encompasses the entire town. It’s about 13 acres. There were 16 residents in 1970, but the number has since decreased. Lotsee Spradling, Campbell’s daughter, and the town’s namesake, continues to live in town and oversee the ranch.
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Conclusion
Hoot Owl, the smallest town in Oklahoma, has a unique history. Founded in 1977 to protect private property, it peaked at five residents in 1990 but dwindled to zero by 2020. Lotsee, the second-smallest town, boasts six residents and is situated on a family-owned ranch. Both towns showcase the diversity of Oklahoma’s settlements, from bustling cities to tiny, unique communities.