Orla is a small unincorporated community in northwestern Reeves County, Texas. It is located at the junction of U.S. Highway 285 and Farm Road 652, about 38 miles north of Pecos. Although often described as a ghost town, Orla continues to function as a service point for the surrounding oil and gas industry.
Early History
Orla was established in 1890 as a section house on the Pecos River Railroad. The railroad, which linked Pecos, Texas, with Carlsbad, New Mexico, was important in opening the area to transportation and settlement. A post office was created on December 26, 1906, with Joshua D. McAdams appointed as the first postmaster.
For decades, Orla remained extremely small. Records from the early 20th century indicate a population of around 10 residents, a level that held steady until the mid-1900s.
Growth in the Mid-20th Century
After World War II, Orla began to grow modestly due to the development of the Permian Basin’s oil, gas, and sulfur resources. By the early 1950s, the population had increased to about 40, and by the late 1950s it reached 60.
The 1960s brought the peak of Orla’s growth. During this period, the community supported about 250 residents and 12 businesses. Much of this growth was tied directly to the oil and gas boom across West Texas.
Decline and Present Day
Like many boomtowns in the Permian Basin, Orla declined after the energy industry contracted in the 1970s. By 1990, the population had fallen back to around 2 residents, a figure that continued to be reported in census estimates into the early 2000s.
Despite its small permanent population, Orla has remained active as a supply and service hub for the oil and gas industry. Truck traffic, equipment yards, and work camps continue to give the area economic importance, even though few people live there full-time.
Key Facts
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Founded: 1890, as a Pecos River Railroad section house
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Post office established: December 26, 1906 (first postmaster: Joshua D. McAdams)
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Population peaks: ≈10 (early 1900s), 40–60 (1950s), ~250 (1960s boom)
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Current status: Very small permanent population, but an active oilfield service point
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Location: U.S. 285 and FM 652, 38 miles north of Pecos in Reeves County
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