Boomtowns are built on optimism; ghost towns are what's left when it runs out. Welcome to Cross. The term Cross Timbers, also known as Ecoregion 29, Central Oklahoma/Texas Plains, is used to describe a strip of land in the United States that runs from southeastern Kansas across Central Oklahoma to Central Texas.
Kay County holds 3 documented ghost towns, including Autwine, Kaw City — Cross keeps them company on the map.
The story of Cross
Oklahoma's ghost towns got it from both sides — oil booms that built them overnight and the Dust Bowl that emptied them.
The term Cross Timbers, also known as Ecoregion 29, Central Oklahoma/Texas Plains, is used to describe a strip of land in the United States that runs from southeastern Kansas across Central Oklahoma to Central Texas. Made up of a mix of prairie, savanna, and woodland, it forms part of the boundary between the more heavily forested eastern country and the almost treeless Great Plains, and also marks the western habitat limit of many mammals and insects.
What you'll find today
The on-the-ground condition of Cross is unverified — it's listed here with unknown status. That could mean standing buildings, or an empty field. Go prepared for either, and consider sharing what you find so the record improves.
Nobody has confirmed the access situation, so treat any visit as reconnaissance: verify land ownership first, and be ready to admire from the road.
Getting there
Here's the honest truth: access to Cross is unverified. We couldn't confirm whether the site sits on public land, private property, or something in between — so verify land ownership and local rules before visiting, and respect private property at all times. The mapped point for Cross is roughly 34.0000, -97.2500 — use it as a starting point and cross-reference a current topographic map before leaving pavement.
Good to know
Ghost-town etiquette is simple: take only photographs. Removing artifacts is illegal on public lands and disrespectful everywhere else — and on federal land it can be a serious offense.
Survey Map
Approximate position — verify access locally before visiting
Cross FAQs
01Where is Cross located?
02What county is Cross in?
03What is the history of Cross?
04What remains at Cross today?
05Can you visit Cross?
Sources: account based on Wikipedia (“Cross Timbers”), CC BY-SA.
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