America's time‑frozen town: Donkeys on the streets, cowboys in the square

Eda Erin, who was road‑tripping in America, described the town of Oatman in Arizona, the fourth stop on her route, with a video she shared from her social media account.

Erin noted that the small town on Route 66 was once a gold‑mining settlement, and said that Oatman’s most striking feature is the donkeys that roam freely in its streets.

Donkeys Became the Town’s Symbol

According to Erin, the donkeys were once used by miners working in the region’s mines to carry loads. After the mines closed, the remaining donkeys gradually became an inseparable part of the town.

Today in Oatman’s streets, especially in front of shops, it is possible to encounter donkeys. Some local merchants are said to care for the donkeys and treat them almost like pets.

Cowboy Show in the Streets

Another feature that draws attention to Oatman is the cowboy shows organized to bring the Wild West era to life.

Eda Erin said that during her visits she came across a show in which two cowboys argued in the middle of the street and then fired at each other. Erin, who stated that the show was entirely theatrical, said that the events were held in front of different shops at different times.

Erin advised those who want to go to Oatman to research the show times in advance.

With its historic atmosphere on Route 66, freely roaming donkeys, and Wild West–themed shows, Oatman adds a different experience to the itinerary of visitors to the area.