Oak Club

Driving through the backroads of Texas, occasionally I'll make an unplanned pit stop at some place that, for one reason or another, catches my eye. Not too often though, since most places on farm-to-market roads ain't too much to look at. But with its striking neon sign and tree-shaded gravel lot, Oak Club stuck out like a priest in a strip club.

Inside, there’s plenty of room, a pool table, and minimal decor. Nothing fancy. There’s a quiet cantina feel, and it seemed like the kind of place where there's not too much going on during the day. Maybe just some locals swinging by for a burger and a few games of video slots in the corner. Nights could be a different story though.

The bartender told me Oak Club dates back to the 1960s, but closed down at some point and reopened in April 2023. An obituary I found revealed that the place was built by rancher Charlie Mayer, who worked in the honey and pecan businesses. The obituary added, “He built a rodeo arena where people came from all over. He loved to fish and always seemed to bring home the big one. His passion for growing things was remarkable. He could grow anything.” Sounds like an interesting guy.

I also chatted with a vintage motorcycle collector talking about an Iowa auction he had just driven back from. He had a big new truck with a shiny trailer attached and clearly wasn’t hurting for money. He said most of the good bikes he had bought over the years were from families that recently had a deceased member who was an enthusiast. They were selling off their collection; that’s the best way to get a deal. But don’t worry, he said, “My family will do the same to me.”

I wouldn’t call Oak Club a destination bar, but it’s a nice place to stop if you’re out yonder Buckholts way. And if you’re looking to sell some vintage hogs, maybe bring some business cards just in case.