Region: Panhandle Plains
Town grew from 1880s site where early cattlemen gathered herds for branding and forming trail outfits. The name honors Richard Olney, Secretary of State in Grover Cleveland's cabinet. Today, it's a commercial center for agricultural, ranching and petroleum activity. Excellent hunting during seasons for dove, quail, migratory waterfowl, wild turkey and white-tailed deer; day and seasonal leases available. Water sports include swimming, boating and fishing on small Lakes Cooper and Olney a few miles northwest.
An unusual park that appeals to adults features artistic groupings of pole structures on Ave. C just east of Main St.
On occasion, buffalo can be seen from the highway rest area off Texas 114, eight miles east of Olney.