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Calling All Photographers: Submit Your Photos for the Oldham County Community Calendar!

The Oldham County Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce our upcoming Community Calendar Photo Contest — and we want to feature your photos!

This calendar will celebrate the beauty, spirit, and pride of Oldham County, and we’re inviting residents, visitors, and photography enthusiasts to help us showcase what makes our community special. What We’re Looking For

We encourage submissions that capture:

  • Scenic landscapes and sunsets
  • Historic landmarks and local icons
  • Community events and celebrations
  • Route 66 moments
  • Agriculture and ranch life
  • Wildlife and seasonal beauty
  • Small-town charm and everyday life

Whether it’s a wide-open Texas sky or a special community gathering, we want photos that tell the story of Oldham County.

Calendar Details

Selected photos will be featured in our official Community Calendar, distributed throughout the county and beyond. Winning photographers will:

  • Receive photo credit in the calendar
  • Be recognized on Chamber social media
  • Help represent Oldham County to residents and visitors

How to Enter

Please submit:

  • High-resolution digital images
  • Your name and contact information
  • A short description of where and when the photo was taken

Submissions can be sent to: info@oldhamcofc.org
Deadline to enter: March 31, 2026

(Full contest rules)

Why It Matters

This calendar is more than dates on a page — it’s a celebration of our home. Through your lens, we can highlight the places, people, and moments that define Oldham County.

We can’t wait to see the community through your eyes!

For updates, follow the Oldham County Chamber of Commerce on social media and watch for future announcements.

 

Calling All Photographers: Submit Your Photos for the Oldham County Community Calendar! Read More »

Thank You to Wildorado Wind Ranch & Clearway Energy

The Oldham County Chamber of Commerce would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Wildorado Wind Ranch and Clearway Energy for their generous donation of a new conference table for the Chamber office.

This thoughtful contribution enhances our meeting space and creates a welcoming environment where Chamber members, local leaders, and community partners can come together to collaborate, plan, and grow. From board meetings to business discussions and community planning sessions, this table will be used for years to support meaningful conversations and progress in Oldham County.

We are grateful for Wildorado Wind Ranch and Clearway Energy’s continued investment in our community and their commitment to supporting local organizations. Partnerships like this strengthen the work we do and help us better serve our members and the businesses that call Oldham County home.

Thank you, Wildorado Wind Ranch and Clearway Energy, for your generosity and for helping us build a stronger, more connected community.

Thank You to Wildorado Wind Ranch & Clearway Energy Read More »

Revving Up for the Season: Our Membership Drive & Route 66 Signs Are Coming Back to Life in Oldham County

There’s a fresh breeze blowing through Oldham County, and it carries the unmistakable spirit of the Mother Road. As we launch our annual membership drive, we’re celebrating something extra special this year, the return of historic Route 66 signage across our communities.

 

For decades, Route 66 has been more than just a highway, it’s an iconic symbol of American freedom, adventure, and small-town pride. In the Texas Panhandle, and especially here in Oldham County, that spirit is alive and well, thanks to the collective efforts of volunteers, enthusiasts, and local partners.

Why This Year Matters

2026 marks an important milestone: the 100th anniversary of Route 66. Across the country, towns and organizations are honoring this legacy, and here at home we’re deepening our own commitment to preserving the history and character of this legendary road.

In Texas, the Texas Historic Route 66 Sign Project, coordinated by the Old Route 66 Association of Texas in partnership with TxDOT and local communities, is actively restoring and installing historic Route 66 signs along the original alignments. These aren’t just markers; they’re beacons that draw visitors, spark memories, and help travelers find their way through the story of our region.

Powering It All — Our Members

None of this would be possible without you. Our membership drive isn’t just about numbers, it’s about building a community of stewards for Route 66 history, local history, and Oldham County as a whole.

Whether you’re a long-time resident, a business owner, or someone who just can’t wait to hit the open road, your membership helps keep the Oldham County Chamber of Commerce alive and active in making positive changes in and for Oldham County.

 

Join the Journey

If you’ve ever stopped to take a photo with a Route 66 sign, wandered into a roadside café on a whim, or felt that rush of nostalgia when you see that shield silhouette against the sky, you’re part of why this matters.

Now is the perfect time to become a member, renew your support, or bring a friend along. Together, we can make sure Oldham County continues to be a destination, not just a stop on the map.

➡️ Click here to join our membership drive today — and help us make 2026 the year Route 66 shines brighter than ever.

 

Revving Up for the Season: Our Membership Drive & Route 66 Signs Are Coming Back to Life in Oldham County Read More »

A New Year of Opportunity in Oldham County

Welcome to 2026:

As we turn the page to 2026, the Oldham County Chamber of Commerce is excited to welcome a new year filled with opportunity, growth, and connection. A new year is the perfect time to reflect on our progress and look ahead to what we can accomplish together as a business community.

Building on a Strong Foundation

2025 was a year of momentum for the Chamber. With fresh leadership, an enthusiastic board, and new junior board members eager to serve, we strengthened partnerships, expanded our visibility, and continued to champion the businesses that make Oldham County thrive. From regional initiatives to a website upgrade and the launch of this blog, our focus has remained on connection, support, and growth.

What to Expect in 2026

Our focus this year is simple: support local business, strengthen relationships, and promote Oldham County. In 2026, you can expect more business storytelling, community events, member spotlights, resources, and continued encouragement to shop and invest locally. This blog will serve as a hub for Chamber news, events, and reminders of why supporting local matters year-round.

Route 66 Centennial: A Historic Year

2026 marks the 100th anniversary of Route 66, and Oldham County is proud to be part of this once-in-a-generation milestone. The Chamber looks forward to supporting Route 66 related initiatives, tourism promotion, and opportunities for local businesses to benefit from increased visibility. As travelers explore the Mother Road, Oldham County remains an important stop along the journey, rich in history, community, and local business pride.

Memberships & Renewals for 2026

With the new year comes the launch of our 2026 Chamber membership and renewal season. Next week, we’ll send out membership forms, and we invite current and potential members to take a look. Joining the Chamber supports your business and our community by providing exposure, networking opportunities, promotional benefits, and representing local businesses with one united voice. We’re grateful to our returning members and extend a warm welcome to newcomers.

A Community Effort

The Chamber exists because of its members and supporters. Whether you’re a long-standing business, a new entrepreneur, or a community advocate, your involvement makes a difference. We invite you to stay engaged, attend events, and help us share the story of Oldham County’s incredible businesses.

Let’s Make 2026 Count

We’re proud of how far we’ve come and excited about what’s ahead. Thank you for being part of the Oldham County Chamber of Commerce. Be sure to check back often and follow us on social media for updates, spotlights, and all the exciting things coming in 2026.

Here’s to a strong start and a successful year ahead! 🎉

A New Year of Opportunity in Oldham County Read More »

Shop Small, Support Big: How Local Spending Strengthens Oldham County

In Oldham County, “shopping small” isn’t just a seasonal slogan, it’s a way of life that strengthens our towns, supports our neighbors, and keeps our local economy thriving. Whether you’re grabbing lunch in Vega, picking up a unique gift in Adrian, or fueling up before heading down Route 66, every dollar spent here makes a difference.

This week, we’re highlighting three big reasons to think small: embracing Shop Small Saturday—every week, understanding the true impact of shopping local, and taking advantage of Chamber Bucks, one of the easiest ways to keep dollars circulating locally.

  1. Shop Small Saturday… Every Week!

We all know Thanksgiving weekend brings national attention to Small Business Saturday, but here in Oldham County, our local businesses are open and ready to serve all year long.
From the family-owned business to the generations-old cafés and service providers, these shops truly are the heartbeat of our communities.

By making a conscious effort to shop small each week, whether it’s grabbing dessert at a Mama Jo’s, buying groceries from Taylor’s Vega Market, Groneman’s servicing your vehicle or picking up coffee and gift from Longhorn Coffee, Tea & Gifts; you help ensure these businesses stay open, grow, and continue contributing to our county’s character.

A few easy weekly swaps:

  • Choose a local diner over a chain restaurant
  • Buy gifts from local makers
  • Hire local contractors and service providers
  • Attend local events and vendor markets
  • Purchase produce, meat, and goods from local farmers and grocery stores.

Small habits have a big impact!

  1. How Shopping Local Strengthens Oldham County

When you shop locally, more of your money stays right here in our community, supporting jobs, funding improvements, and helping small businesses reinvest in their operations and families.

Here’s how your local purchases help:

  • Boost the local economy. More local revenue means stronger schools, infrastructure, and services.
  • Create and sustain jobs. Small businesses are major employers in rural communities.
  • Preserve our character. Oldham County’s charm comes from the unique local businesses visitors remember long after they leave.
  • Support future growth. Healthy businesses attract new entrepreneurs, residents, and visitors.
  • Strengthen community pride. When you know the people behind the counter or the product, you feel invested in their success.

Working together, we can build the kind of thriving community our children and grandchildren will want to return to.

  1. Chamber Bucks: Spend Local, Support Local

 

One of the easiest ways to support local businesses, especially during the holidays—is by giving or spending Chamber Bucks.
Chamber Bucks work like a gift certificate that can be used at participating businesses across Oldham County. They make perfect gifts for teachers, employees, friends, and family, and they ensure your dollars stay right here at home.

Where You Can Use Chamber Bucks

Chamber Bucks are accepted at Mama Jo’s Pies & Sweets, Milburn-Price Culture Museum, Groneman’s Service Station, Texas Auto, Roosters, Mike’s Bar & Grill, Beer Box, Dreammaker Station, Jan’s Jewels, Longhorn Coffee Tea & Gifts, and Taylor’s Vega Market.

Charity and Chamber Bucks

When you purchase Chamber Bucks from the Chamber of Commerce, 10% of Chamber Bucks sales will be given back to a local Oldham County Charity. By using Chamber Bucks, you not only support small businesses, but you are also supporting local charities.

Together, We Keep Oldham County Strong

Shopping small isn’t about spending more, it’s about choosing to spend your money where it matters most. When you support local businesses, use Chamber Bucks, and put Oldham County first, you’re helping build a community with a strong economy, vibrant Main Streets, and a bright future.

Thank you for continuing to shop, dine, explore, and invest in Oldham County.
Your choices truly make a difference!

Shop Small, Support Big: How Local Spending Strengthens Oldham County Read More »

The Spirit of Route 66 in Oldham County, Texas: Where the Mother Road Still Lives

Few places along the historic Route 66 capture the heart of the Mother Road quite like Oldham County, Texas. Stretching across the wide-open plains of the Texas Panhandle, Oldham County offers travelers an authentic Route 66 experience, one rooted in history, small-town charm, and the quiet beauty that once defined cross-country travel. For many, this stretch of the highway feels like stepping back into a simpler, more nostalgic America.

From restored landmarks to quirky museums and windmill-lined horizons, Route 66 continues to shape Oldham County’s identity and invite visitors from around the world.

A Road That Shaped the Panhandle

Route 66 first passed through Oldham County in 1926, carving a path directly through the town of Vega. Before the interstate, Vega, along with small communities like Wildorado and Adrian, served as essential stops for food, fuel, and hospitality.

When Interstate 40 eventually replaced much of the highway in the 1970s, many Route 66 communities began to decline. Yet Oldham County never forgot the role the Mother Road played in its story. Instead, the community chose to preserve, restore, and honor the places that made this stretch so memorable.

Magnolia Service Station: The Crown Jewel of Vega

One of the most recognizable Route 66 landmarks in the entire Panhandle sits right here in Vega, the Magnolia Service Station.

Built in the 1920s, the two-story station originally housed the operator’s living quarters upstairs. For decades, it served as a beacon for travelers crossing the plains. When the interstate bypassed town, the station fell into disrepair, but locals refused to let it fade away.

Thanks to a Route 66 Corridor Preservation Grant, the community restored the building to its original charm. Today, the Magnolia Station stands as an interpretive visitor center showcasing:

  • Vintage gas pumps
  • Old photographs and Route 66 memorabilia
  • Oral histories from longtime Vega residents
  • Carefully preserved architectural details

It’s a must-see stop for anyone wanting to feel the true spirit of the Mother Road. During the summer months, local volunteers can be found greeting travelers and giving informational tours of the Magnolia Station.

 

Dot’s Mini Museum: Small, Quirky, and Full of Heart

Just a short walk from the Magnolia Station is a tiny treasure unlike anything else on the route, Dot’s Mini Museum.

Created by beloved local resident Dot Leavitt, this small building is overflowing with decades of collected artifacts: cowboy gear, Route 66 trinkets, vintage bottles, family heirlooms, and pieces of Vega history.

Outside, you’ll find one of Oldham County’s most photographed curiosities, the famous Boot Tree, where visitors hang old boots as a nod to ranching life and Dot’s contagious sense of humor.

Dot’s Mini Museum is more than a stop; it’s a love letter to Oldham County and a reminder of how much Route 66 history is held in the hands of everyday people.

 

Milburn-Price Culture Museum: Preserving the County’s Story

For travelers wanting to dig deeper into the area’s heritage, the Milburn-Price Culture Museum in Vega offers a rich look into Oldham County’s past, from pioneer days and ranching life to the arrival of Route 66 and the growth of the community.

It’s a great place to learn how Oldham County evolved alongside the highway and why preserving these stories matters to locals.

Route 66, Wide Landscapes & Modern-Day Travelers

One of the best parts of Route 66 in Oldham County isn’t a building, it’s the drive itself.

As you travel the quiet stretches of road near Vega, you’ll see:

  • Vast prairie horizons
  • Rustic windmills
  • Historic Ranchland
  • Old bridge alignments of original Route 66
  • Vintage motels and fading billboard signs

This portion of the route is peaceful and scenic, offering a slower-paced experience that many modern travelers crave.

Route 66 brings international visitors to Oldham County every year, from motorcycle groups and vintage car clubs to solo explorers checking the Mother Road off their bucket list. And every visitor who stops here finds something special: authenticity.

Why Route 66 Still Matters in Oldham County

Route 66 helped shape Oldham County’s identity, economy, and spirit. But more importantly, it continues to give the community something to celebrate:

  • Heritage worth preserving
  • Tourism that supports local businesses
  • A connection to people from around the world
  • A shared pride in keeping history alive

Oldham County embraces its role as a steward of the Mother Road, offering travelers not just something to see, but something to feel.

Plan Your Oldham County Route 66 Adventure

If you’re travelling on the Mother Road or looking for a memorable day trip, don’t miss these local highlights:

⭐ Must-See Stops

  • Magnolia Service Station
  • Dot’s Mini Museum & Boot Tree
  • Milburn-Price Culture Museum
  • Historic Route 66 road segments
  • Nearby Midpoint Café in Adrian
  • Dreammaker Station

⭐ Tips

  • Bring your camera — these spots are full of vintage character.
  • Stop in town for food or fuel to support local businesses.
  • Take your time — Route 66 is meant to be savored, not rushed.

 

Oldham County: A True Slice of Route 66

Route 66 in Oldham County offers a rare gift, the chance to experience the Mother Road the way travelers did decades ago: slowly, peacefully, and with a sense of wonder. Whether you’re photo stopping at the Magnolia Station, discovering Dot’s treasures, or simply soaking in a Panhandle sunset, this stretch of Route 66 stays with you long after you’ve left it behind.

The Oldham County Chamber of Commerce collaborated with NewsChannel 10 to participate in the Go Route 66 App with the help of generous donations from local businesses in our communities. The app can be downloaded in the App and google play stores, so we encourage you to download the app and explore and learn more about what it offers. The Chamber of Commerce is committed to promoting tourism and supporting local businesses to enhance Oldham County as an exceptional place to conduct business, a fun place to visit, and a wonderful place to live. Our efforts are made possible by the ongoing support of our communities and local businesses, for which we extend our sincere appreciations.

https://www.goroute66.com/

 

The Spirit of Route 66 in Oldham County, Texas: Where the Mother Road Still Lives Read More »

Honoring Our Heroes: Veterans Day in Oldham County

Each November 11th, our nation pauses to honor the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Veterans Day is more than a date on the calendar, it’s a time to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of those who have defended our freedom, both at home and abroad.

Here in Oldham County, we’re proud to have deep roots of service and patriotism. Generations of families from our community have answered the call, representing every branch of the military with pride. Their commitment reminds us that the freedoms we enjoy every day were secured by ordinary citizens who performed extraordinary acts of service.

As we observe Veterans Day, we encourage everyone to take a moment to thank a veteran, whether through a handshake, a heartfelt note, or by attending a local ceremony. Small gestures of appreciation can mean so much to those who gave so much.

Let’s also remember the families of our veterans. Their support and sacrifice behind the scenes are an essential part of the story of service.

From all of us at the Oldham County Chamber of Commerce, we extend our deepest gratitude to our veterans and active-duty service members. Your courage continues to inspire us and strengthen the spirit of our community.

Thank you for your service.

In collaboration with our local school districts, the American Legion, and the courthouse, I have compiled a comprehensive list of Veterans from Oldham County. If you are aware of any Veterans who may have been omitted, please contact me at info@oldhamcofc.org so they can be appropriately included in our honorary list.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/13pDzllNO9rrdeoju9hOb48O-6__PwAzT/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=102895261271436705035&rtpof=true&sd=true

Honoring Our Heroes: Veterans Day in Oldham County Read More »

A Little Free Library with Big Heart at the Milburn-Price Culture Museum

In the heart of Vega, Texas, the Milburn-Price Culture Museum has added another charming reason to stop by, a Little Free Library! This small library, nestled right outside the museum, is open to everyone and runs on a simple but powerful idea: Take a book, share a book.

This wonderful addition to our community was a community effort. Greg Conn and his grandchildren along with Keith Smith did the groundwork and installed the granite slab for the old postal box found by Jalie Crawford, Mitch Reeve placed a window to keep the books safe from our wild Texas weather and Sawyer Naugle was the first donor of children’s books.  Alfonso Garcia, who is known for his outstanding artistic abilities as the artist behind the murals of Vega, showcased his talent once more with the little free library artwork.

 

 

Visitors, locals, and travelers passing through on Route 66 can now pause to swap stories in more ways than one. Whether you’re looking for a travel read, a children’s book to share, or a bit of local history, you’re bound to find a treasure inside.

So next time you’re visiting the museum or just cruising through Oldham County, stop by the Little Free Library, borrow a book, and maybe leave one behind. It’s a small shelf with a big purpose: keeping the love of stories alive in the heart of the Texas Panhandle. The little library can be found on www.littlefreelibrary.org.

📍 Location: Milburn-Price Culture Museum, 1005 Coke St., Vega, Texas
📖 How it works: Take a book. Share a book. Share the love of reading!

A Little Free Library with Big Heart at the Milburn-Price Culture Museum Read More »

Discover Dot’s Mini Museum in Vega, Texas — A Tiny Treasure on Route 66

Nestled in the heart of the Texas Panhandle, the town of Vega proudly sits along the historic Route 66, once known as “The Mother Road.” This small community embodies the welcoming spirit of roadside America — where travelers still stop to stretch their legs, take in the local stories, and experience the nostalgia of a bygone era. Among Vega’s most charming stops is a true hidden gem: Dot’s Mini Museum — a delightful, one-of-a-kind collection that captures the history and heart of the town.

The Story Behind Dot’s Mini Museum

Dot’s Mini Museum was the creation of Dot Leavitt, a longtime Vega resident whose passion for collecting turned into one of the town’s most unique attractions.

Dot and her husband moved to Vega in the 1940s and operated Vega Zero Lockers, a freezer-storage business. Over the years, Dot began collecting pieces of local life — everything from Route 66 memorabilia and cowboy gear to vintage bottles and old Avon perfume containers.

By the time she opened her “mini museum,” it was brimming floor to ceiling with treasures that told the story of small-town Texas and the travelers who passed through. Even after her passing in 2006, Dot’s family continued to lovingly care for her collection.

In 1997, Dot was inducted into the Texas Route 66 Association Hall of Fame. A Texas Historical Marker was placed at the site in 2003, recognizing it as a preserved piece of Route 66 heritage.

What You’ll Find

Dot’s Mini Museum isn’t large — it’s more like stepping into someone’s personal time capsule. Inside, you’ll find:

  • Route 66 collectibles and postcards
  • Cowboy hats, boots, and saddles
  • Old bottles and trinkets
  • Vintage signage and local history displays

Outside, you can’t miss the famous “Boot Tree”, a whimsical sculpture where visitors hang old boots as a tribute to Texas’ ranching culture and the Mother Road spirit.

Although the museum is small (roughly an 8×20-foot room), it’s packed with personality. Some days it may be open for visitors, while other times you’ll only be able to view it from the outside — but it’s worth a stop either way.

Where to Find It

Address: 105 N. 12th Street, Vega, Texas
Location: Just off Historic Route 66, minutes from Vega’s town square

* Tip: Combine your visit with a stop at the Milburn-Price Culture Museum nearby to round out your Vega history tour.

Why It Matters

Dot’s Mini Museum isn’t just a quirky roadside stop — it’s a heartfelt reminder of what makes Route 66 so special.

  • It celebrates the personal stories behind America’s most famous highway.
  • It preserves the everyday history of a small Texas town.
  • It captures the creative, independent spirit that defines the Mother Road.

In a world where roadside attractions are fading fast, Dot’s Mini Museum stands as a testament to one woman’s love for her community and its history.

 

Before You Go

  • The museum’s hours can be unpredictable — many visitors simply stop to explore the outdoor displays.
  • Be respectful of the property, as much of it is privately maintained.
  • Don’t forget your camera — this is classic Route 66 photo material!

 

Dot’s Mini Museum may be small, but its charm is enormous. Whether you’re a Route 66 enthusiast, a history buff, or just passing through Vega, this little landmark will leave you smiling.

It’s proof that sometimes, the tiniest stops on the map can hold the biggest stories.

Discover Dot’s Mini Museum in Vega, Texas — A Tiny Treasure on Route 66 Read More »

The American Legion Mural

The American Legion is a congressionally chartered, patriotic veterans’ organization established in 1919. It plays a significant role as an advocate for veterans, striving to secure benefits, promote mental health initiatives, prevent suicide, and foster patriotism and community engagement. Comprised of U.S. veterans who served during wartime, The American Legion now boasts a membership exceeding 1.6 million individuals worldwide, spanning more than 12,000 posts.

Recently, Vega’s local American Legion Post 168 commissioned artist Alfonso Garcia to create a mural at the Milburn-Price Culture Museum. Renowned for his work throughout Vega, Mr. Garcia brings considerable talent to this project. The mural is situated near both the 911 memorial and “Hank” the ankylosaurus, installations crafted by Greg Conn.

We extend our sincere appreciation to The American Legion Post 168 and the local veterans within our community for their service, dedication, and for enriching Vega with this remarkable mural.

The Milburn-Price Culture Museum displays flags across Vega on several significant holidays: Flag Day (June 14th), Independence Day (July 4th), Memorial Day (last Monday in May), Patriot Day (September 11th), Labor Day (first Monday in September), and Veterans Day (November 11th). The museum welcomes all community members to join them at the Memorial Park Overpass (west of Vega) on July 4th to wave and display flags as travelers pass through. Individuals interested in volunteering for The Avenue of Flags or demonstrating their patriotic spirit on these occasions are encouraged to contact Greg Conn at the Milburn-Price Culture Museum or Brittney Janssen at The Oldham County Chamber of Commerce.

The American Legion Mural Read More »

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