Halifax, Texas, Polk County ghost town. (original) (raw)

History in a Pinecone

Although the community of Halifax did have a pre-Civil War post office, it appears it was essentially a race track. Built just north of ancient Indian burial grounds, it did have gristmill, but nearly every other business catered to gamblers.

Saloon, racetrack, stables, blacksmith and hotel (presumably for out-of-town gamblers) are the only businesses listed in the Handbook of Texas entry for Halifax. Nary a mention of churches, schools, newspapers or other signs of civilization.

The post office served Polk County residents from Midway to Old Hope from 1853 through 1858. Without enduring infrastructure, the town disappeared.

Polk County 1858 Map showing Halifax
NE of Livingston
(Above "LK" in "POLK")
Courtesy Texas General Land Office

Halifax is suggested to be included in our ghost town list by �Gary in Arizona.�

Texas Escapes, in its purpose to preserve historic, endangered and vanishing Texas, asks that anyone wishing to share their local history, stories, landmarks and recent or vintage photos, please contact us.