Located just 7 miles from Buffalo, Oklahoma, Kibby is a small town that once flourished as a thriving community in the early 1900s. Founded on October 31, 1901, Kibby was unincorporated on April 15, 1920, and it slowly became deserted.
Today, Kibby is a ghost town with no inhabitants, but it still holds valuable genealogical information in its cemetery, which has an online register. Despite its lack of residents, Kibby remains a fascinating site for history buffs and those curious about the past.
The town’s history is shrouded in mystery, with stories suggesting that it was destroyed by fire, and its haunting past continues to intrigue those who explore its remnants. This article takes readers on a journey to explore Kibby, its history, and the stories that make it a ghost town.
From the school and cemetery to visitor information, this article provides an objective, informative, and descriptive look at Kibby and its valuable insights into the past.
Key Takeaways
- Kibby is a small ghost town located 7 miles from Buffalo, Oklahoma, founded in 1901 and unincorporated in 1920.
- Kibby was once a thriving community with a post office, a general store, and a school that served as an educational center for the surrounding areas until 1940.
- The town’s cemetery holds valuable genealogical information, and the preservation efforts are ongoing, with a register available online.
- Visitors can explore the remains of the town’s buildings and landmarks, including the Kibby School, and nearby Great Salt Plains State Park offers outdoor activities.
Location and History
The location and history of Kibby, a ghost town located 7 miles from Buffalo, OK, includes its founding on October 31, 1901, and its unincorporation on April 15, 1920, with some reports suggesting its destruction by fire.
The founding legends of Kibby suggest that it was named after a wealthy rancher, William Kibby, who donated land for the town’s establishment. The town had a post office, a general store, and a school, and it served as a hub for the surrounding farming community.
Kibby’s historical significance lies in its past as a rural community that played a significant role in the region’s development. The town’s school operated until 1940 and served as an educational center for the surrounding areas.
The town cemetery, now available online, contains valuable genealogical information that can shed light on the town’s history and its residents.
Today, Kibby is a ghost town, offering a unique destination for history buffs who wish to explore its past and learn more about the region’s history.
School and Cemetery
Operating as a rural school until 1940, the educational institution in Kibby served as a beacon of knowledge for the small community. The school was a single-story building with a bell tower, eventually becoming a landmark. The school history of Kibby is a testament to the community’s commitment to education, as it provided a quality education to students despite the limited resources available.
After the school was closed, the building was used for various community activities, but eventually, it was abandoned and fell into a state of disrepair. Today, the school’s ruins serve as a reminder of the town’s glory days and attract history buffs who are interested in the educational system of the early 1900s.
Kibby’s cemetery is an important site for genealogical research. The cemetery register is available online, providing valuable information to those seeking to trace their family tree. The cemetery preservation efforts are ongoing, with locals taking care of the gravesites and ensuring that the cemetery remains a dignified and peaceful resting place for the deceased.
The cemetery reminds the town’s past, and visitors can pay their respects to the pioneers who once called Kibby their home.
Visitor Information
Located seven miles from Buffalo, OK, Kibby offers a unique destination for history enthusiasts seeking to learn about the town’s past. As a ghost town, Kibby is no longer inhabited, but visitors can still explore the remains of the town’s buildings and landmarks.
The Kibby School, which operated as a rural school until 1940, is a testament to the town’s educational history. Meanwhile, the Kibby Cemetery, with its online register, provides valuable genealogical information for those interested in tracing their family history.
Aside from exploring the town’s history, visitors can also check out nearby attractions. The town of Buffalo, just a short drive away, offers a variety of dining and shopping options. Meanwhile, the Great Salt Plains State Park, located about 40 miles away, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors can also find accommodation options in Buffalo, which include hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts.
With its rich history and nearby attractions, Kibby is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the past.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused Kibby to become a ghost town?
Kibby became a ghost town due to a combination of economic decline and environmental factors such as drought and dust storms. Natural disasters, including fires, may have also contributed to the town’s abandonment.
Are there any abandoned buildings or structures left in Kibby?
What remains of Kibby are a few abandoned structures scattered around the ghost town. Exploring Kibby’s abandoned buildings offers a glimpse into the past and the history behind the town’s desertion.
Have there been any reported supernatural or paranormal activity in Kibby?
Supernatural sightings and local legends regarding paranormal activity in Kibby have not been officially documented. While the town’s history may lend itself to ghost stories, no concrete evidence supports them.
Are there any plans to preserve or restore any of the historical sites or landmarks in Kibby?
There are currently no known plans for historical preservation or restoration of landmarks in Kibby. Community involvement and funding would be necessary to initiate such projects.
What is the closest town or city to Kibby for visitors to stay in overnight?
Visitors can stay in the nearby town of Buffalo, Oklahoma, located about 7 miles away to find accommodation near Kibby. Nearby attractions include the Kibby Cemetery, which offers valuable genealogical information.
