Troll at the Center of Texas

In 1871, a survey found the small community of Hughes Store was situated at the center of the state of Texas and in the middle of this community was a large Oak tree. The survey crew decided to call the tree Center Oak. Thinking a change of name would help the settlement grow and wanting to take advantage of the newfound publicity for being in the center of the state, the community changed its name to Center City.

The town built around the Center Oak tree began to grow and thrive, but then the railroad bypassed it in 1885 and the town began to decline. A more accurate survey in the early 1900's determined the center of Texas to actually be about 50 miles away. The town lost even the recognition of being at the center of it all and rapidly declined.

Now a ghost town compared to what it once was, Lil Dude Troll visited the old Center Oak and found that like the town, the tree which had seen so much of history is just a shell. It died in 2011 and the trunk is slowly rotting away to nothing.
















(To read a more complete story of the Center Oak, click here.)


 

Troll and the Little Golden Gate Bridge

There's a miniature Golden Gate Bridge few people know about in Beaver, Arkansas. Lil Dude Troll knows about it though and went to see what it's all about.

Although only 554 feet long and 11 feet wide, it is a working bridge carrying Hwy 187 across the White River in one of the most scenic area's in all of Arkansas. It is the last remaining suspension bridge in this part of the country.

 Lil Dude say's be careful driving across this famous bridge as it is only one lane wide so you have to be considerate of any cars coming across from the other side. Fortunately, in the sleepy little town of Beaver there's not much traffic to worry about. It is a little unnerving though as you cross the wooden planks above the river below and hear it creaking and the whole bridge begins to wobble a bit. It's held up since 1949 so you should be safe - probably.

Troll At Sammy's Bar-B-Q

Just outside downtown Dallas, Texas on Leonard Street is Sammy's Bar-B-Q. The place has been open for almost 70 years. There's a reason. If you want some of the most delectable "Que" you've ever eaten, this is the place!

Serving up large portions of beef, pork, ribs, ham and sausage with yummy sides of potato salad, vegetables and tasty cobbler for dessert, you need to get there early as it gets crowded fast and the line can be long. Never fear, it's all worth it! Lil Dude gives it 2 thumbs up!

Oh yum!

There is an partially enclosed seating area in
the back to handle the overflow crowds..