Railroad history powers historic downtown Slaton
An old steam-powered locomotive has presided over Slaton’s historic town square since 1955. Brick-paved streets and century-old buildings surround the railroad car, a relic of Slaton’s history as a stopping point for service trains rumbling through Texas. Railroad activity slowed down around 1970, and the city population, currently 6,000, has since declined. “It’s a sleepy community, but there’s been a big push to revitalize the town,” says Realtor and former resident Jason Riebe, co-owner of WTX Realty.
Ranch-style and starter homes on modestly sized lots
Many homes in Slaton date to the 1940s or ’50s, with some remodels and new construction in the mix. Lots typically measure under a quarter of an acre, featuring driveways, shaded carports and patches of lawn. In some areas, narrow bands of grass separate sidewalks from traffic. Starter homes and investment properties cost $50,000 to $100,000, while small ranch-style homes go for $100,000 to $175,000. Larger, well-maintained single-story homes cost $275,000 to $350,000.
Boutiques, biergartens and brisket in Slaton
Locally owned boutiques, restaurants and specialty shops line the brick-paved streets in Historic Downtown Slaton. Many of Slaton’s founders were German immigrants, and Texas 1809 is a steakhouse and biergarten that melds Texas flavors with German cuisine. Tapas, charcuterie, fine wines and cigars populate the menu at The Combine — Commons on the Square. Slaton Bakery has been slinging its signature pastries since 1923, making it one of the oldest bakeries in Texas. Near U.S. Highway 84, diners at Pitforks & Smokerings BBQ enjoy smoked brisket with all the fixings in a converted filling station. United Supermarkets, Dollar General and a smattering of fast-food chains are also located by the highway.
Slaton businesses host community events in summer
The Slaton Show and Shine rides into Historic Downtown Slaton in late July. Texas 1809 opens for brunch, and all residents are welcome to cruise in and show off their cars, trucks, motorcycles and ATVs. In August, the Slaton Bakery hosts the Banana Pudding Festival, with art and craft shows, live music and pudding samples. “A lot of local businesses hold events throughout the year,” Riebe says. “Everyone who lives near here knows about the Slaton Bakery and the Banana Pudding Festival.” The South Plains Air Show is a biannual event, held every other June at the City of Slaton/Larry T. Neal Memorial Airport.
Small classes and low student-teacher ratio at Slaton High School
Prekindergarten and kindergarten students attend Stephen F. Austin Primary School, which receives a B-minus from Niche. Cathelene Thomas Elementary School is also rated B-minus, and Slaton Junior High School is rated C-plus. B-rated Slaton High School has a student-teacher ratio of 10 to 1, below the national average of 15 to 1, and fewer than 100 students per grade.
U.S. Highway 84 offers the quickest route to Lubbock amenities
Many residents commute to Lubbock, about 17 miles away, via Highway 84. Spartan Public Transportation provides localized, on-demand service. The city’s civic airport hosts the biannual air show but doesn’t serve commercial air traffic. Flights to hubs like Dallas and Houston are available from Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport, about 20 miles away. University Medical Center is also roughly 20 miles away in Lubbock.
Sports fields and water recreation in and around Slaton
The playground and basketball court at Elgie Allen Park are tucked into a sunny field with a backstop for batting practice. Evergreen trees lend shade to Russell Park, a pocket of green space within walking distance of Slaton High. The Slaton City Swimming Pool is in a convenient location near the community center and school sports fields, and Buffalo Springs Lake is a popular boating spot about 10 miles outside the city.
Environmental factors can affect Slaton residents
Slaton is on Llano Estacado, one of the largest mesas in North America. Loose topsoil and high winds can result in dust storms. Residents also contend with a relatively high risk of drought, flash floods and tornadoes, winter ice storms and hot weather in summer. Lubbock County recently voted against funding a revitalization project for the city, but the Slaton Economic Development Corporation is working on a five-year plan while encouraging residents to offer feedback.
