The Texas panhandle is full of interesting stories. One of those stories involves the naming of Amarillo.

Do you know the history behind Amarillo's name?

Have You Ever Been To Oneida?

If you've ever been to Amarillo, then the answer is yes. Amarillo was originally called Oneida. It isn't a word that most of us are familiar with, so I decided to look into its origins.

Here is what I found...

TSM Amarillo
TSM Amarillo
loading...

Oneida could be in reference to the Native American tribe. Originally, they lived in what is now central New York. Now they're spread between New York, Wisconsin, and Canada.

Oneida could also be reference to a company that makes cutlery and tableware. I also found a company that specializes in dust collection and air systems.

I seriously doubt these provided direct inspiration, but I can't be certain.

Don't Get It Confused With The Religious Utopian Oneida Community.

While Amarillo was originally called Oneida, It wasn't the only place.There was a utopian community called Oneida Community, and they had some far out ideas as far as traditional Christianity would be concerned. This existed all the way up in Vermont, so I doubt there's much of a connection.

Photo by K8 on Unsplash
Photo by K8 on Unsplash
loading...

From Oneida To Amarillo Thanks To Mother Earth.

What you need to know first is that Amarillo Creek exists. Along Amarillo Creek there are these beautiful yellow flowers that bloom. Also, the dirt around the banks of the creek has a yellow look to it.

The most widely accepted idea on exactly how Amarillo got its name has to do with that dirt and those flowers. Amarillo is the Spanish word for "yellow" or "golden."

While some places got their named from dueling beetles or angry school teachers, Amarillo's name is an ode to the Earth that surrounds it.

Now, you know.

The Legendary Stories Behind These Six Weird Texas Town Names

It's no secret that Texas is home to some pretty strange town names. While the names of these places are strange enough on their own, sometimes the story behind the name is even stranger.

Teeny Tiny Towns of the Texas Panhandle

Don't blink! You just might miss these TINY towns that are dotted around the Texas Panhandle.

Some of these are unincorporated communities and some of these are just plain ol' small!

Either way, these teensy weensy tiny towns and their populations will make you say "wow" (and maybe even squint and say "that's all!?"). Check them out:

The Somewhat Small Towns of the Texas Panhandle

Say what now? Somewhat small?

That's right. These are the towns that seem massive when compared to teensy weensie two-stoplight towns like Pringle (30) or Kerrick (25), but they're definitely not on the same level as cities like White Deer or Panhandle....much less Amarillo.

Buckle up! We've got a places to go and towns to see! These populations are well over 100, but way less than 1000.

All aboard the Somewhat Small Texas Panhandle Towns tour!

More From Mix 94.1