Conflict between the two states arose in July 1931 over a simple bridge built over the Red River. When a company running a nearby toll bridge filed a complaint claiming they had not received funds promised to them, an injunction was issued and Texas governor Ross S. Sterling ordered that barricades be erected on the Texas approach, sparking a conflict that nearly led to a Civil War.
Oklahoman governor William Murray claimed that the Red River bridge both began and ended in his state's territory, and ordered the barricade to be demolished. Texas Rangers were sent to the bridge as demonstrations on both sides demanded its reopening. Murray then ordered martial law in a narrow strip over the bridge which he claimed gave him power over the court's jurisdiction, and even personally showed up to the bridge, revolver in hand.
The standoff between the states lasted for weeks. When Oklahoma soldiers were stationed on the Texas side of the bridge essentially invading Texas. By August, the Texas injunction was dissolved, and Murray moved his troops elsewhere to protect the oilfields. Finally, peace returned to the land. Did it really? Here at Bonham Outpost, established circ 2023, we stand guard, ever vigilant and safe guarding our borders, to secure key lines of communication or infrastructure, secure and co-opt the populace, assist the government in restoring essential services, and force insurgents to operate elsewhere
