Kenton is a small town located in the panhandle region of Oklahoma, near the New Mexico state line. It was founded in 1893 as a trading post and quickly grew due to its location along the historic Cimarron Cutoff of the Santa Fe Trail. The town was named after Kenton, Ohio, the hometown of one of the town's early settlers.
One of the most notable residents of Kenton was the legendary cowboy and rodeo champion, Yakima Canutt. He was born in the town in 1895 and went on to become a Hollywood stuntman and actor, appearing in over 400 films.
The population of Kenton has remained relatively stable over the years, with a current population of around 30-40 residents. The town's small population adds to its charm and sense of community.
Kenton is located in the rugged terrain of the Oklahoma panhandle, surrounded by rolling hills and vast prairies. The town is situated at an elevation of 4,300 feet, making it one of the highest points in Oklahoma.
The economy of Kenton is primarily based on tourism, as visitors come to explore the natural beauty of the Black Mesa Nature Preserve and State Park. The town also has a few small businesses, such as the Kenton Mercantile, which sells local crafts and souvenirs.
Kenton has a rich cowboy culture, with many residents involved in ranching and rodeo. The town hosts an annual rodeo and cowboy poetry gathering, celebrating the traditions of the Old West. Kenton also has a strong sense of community, with residents coming together for events and festivals throughout the year.