Welcome to the small yet historically rich locality of Scroggins, nestled within the picturesque landscape of Franklin County. While it may seem quiet today, this area has a story to tell that dates back to the 1850s.
Scroggins began as a small settlement during the mid-19th century. Its growth was significantly influenced by the sawmill operations of Milt Scroggins, after whom the locality is named. The sawmill was more than just an economic hub; it was the heart of the community’s early development. By 1877, the East Line and Red River Railroad made its way through the area, transforming Scroggins into a bustling shipping point and further promoting its growth.
In 1891, a post office was established, marking Scroggins as an official community. By 1896, it boasted a sawmill and three stores, serving as a vital commercial center for the surrounding rural area. However, the population remained modest, estimated at just twenty-five residents well into the 1930s.
The story of Scroggins is also one of resilience and adaptability. Post-World War II, the community began to grow once more. By 1952, the population had increased to eighty, supported by three rated businesses. This growth continued steadily, and by 1988, the population had reached 125, a figure that remained stable into the 1990s and 2000s.
Scroggins has also become known for its unique cultural event, the Catalpa Worm Festival, first organized in 2004 by Ben and Joann Glaze of the Scroggins General Store. This annual festival celebrates the local Catalpa trees and their parasitic worms, drawing visitors and fostering community spirit.
The evolution of Scroggins reflects broader historical trends in rural America, where railroads and natural resources spurred initial growth, and later, community events helped maintain cultural vibrancy. Walking through Scroggins today, one can still feel the echoes of its industrious past, a testament to the enduring spirit of its people.
