Randlett: Settlement History and Road Location

Randlett can be explored through its settlement history, its agricultural character in the 20th century, and its clearly defined road location. These connections answer different questions: How did the town originate within the Big Pasture Opening, what shaped the community historically, and which transportation links are part of its history? Another cultural occasion takes place in the wider Cotton County and provides regional context alongside Randlett’s local history.

Randlett and the Big Pasture Opening

During the Big Pasture Opening of 1906, five original platted settlement sites were established. Randlett is the only surviving town among them. The Opening provides the broader historical context; Randlett is a specific settlement within it and holds a special place among the group. This links the town’s history both to the regional settlement event and to Randlett’s own development.

The Name and the Town’s Agricultural Character

Randlett was named after James Randlett, an Indian agent for the Kiowa and Comanche. Throughout the 20th century, the town remained a small, agricultural community. The name refers to a person and his role, while the description of the community conveys the town’s longer-lasting character. The town’s history thus brings together a specific connection to the origin of its name and a character that endured throughout the century.

Road Location and Transportation History

Randlett is located at the intersection of U.S. Highway 277/281 and U.S. Highway 70. The intersection provides a precise reference point for the town’s location. Another transportation connection is part of its history: the H. E. Bailey Turnpike opened in 1964 and connected Oklahoma City with Randlett. The intersection locates the town at the two U.S. Highways; the Turnpike reference describes a historic connection with Oklahoma City. The dates also mark different events: 1906 relates to the Big Pasture Opening, while 1964 marks the opening of the Turnpike.

The Story of the Old Well

The story of the old well reaches back to the time when government surveyors camped on the site and surveyed the area before it was opened for settlement. The well was dug while these surveying activities were underway. An archival caption from 1949 places it in the center of Randlett’s Main Street. Historically, the well was considered one of the oldest landmarks in the Big Pasture area of southwestern Oklahoma. Its story thus connects the surveying of the area before settlement with a precisely identified place in the town center.

A Regional Event in Cotton County

The Comanche Homecoming Powwow is held annually in the wider Cotton County area. It features traditional dances, food, and other activities. The event broadens the cultural perspective beyond Randlett’s history and belongs to the wider county context. Dates and venue may vary. If you are considering the Powwow as a reason to travel, check the specific details for the relevant date and venue.

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