Toyah, Texas, the oldest town in Reeves County, was once a hub along the Texas n Pacific Railroad. Today, it is a sparsely populated ghost town with numerous abandoned buildings standing in various states of decay.
Toyah finds its inception as a trading post for large local ranchers. Over time, it became a major cattle shipping destination and even had a population of 771 in 1910. However, the population has dwindled over the years, and in the 2010 census, the town boasted a population of only 90 people.
The town’s name, Toyah, is derived from an Indian word meaning ″flowing water,″ which is likely a reference to the presence of several water sources in the area.
Today, Toyah stands as a reminder of its rich history. Visitors can explore the abandoned buildings that still remain, capturing a glimpse of the town’s former glory. Some of the notable structures include the Toyah School, which was built in 1912 and served the community until the Great Depression.
Located in Reeves County, West Texas, Toyah is about 15 miles west of Pecos, the county seat. It is easily accessible via Interstate 20, U.S. 80, and FM 2903. The town’s coordinates are 31.313312°N and -103.793000°W.
While Toyah may be a ghost town now, it still holds significance in the region’s history. Its story serves as a reminder of the boom and bust cycles that many towns in West Texas have experienced.
If you’re interested in exploring more ghost towns in Texas, there are several other notable ones worth visiting. These include Terlingua, Orogrande, Acala, Lanark, Thurber, and Burkett, among others.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an explorer, or simply curious about the past, Toyah, Texas, offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and immerse yourself in the remnants of a once-thriving town.