IXL, Oklahoma

IXL (or I.X.L.) is an historical freedmen's town^[1] in Okfuskee County, Oklahoma, United States.^[2] It is located on Oklahoma State Highway 48, about 9 miles northwest of the county seat of Okemah.^[3] Okemah Lake is to its east.^[3]

Town limit sign, July 2025

While founded perhaps as early as 1900,^[1] it was only incorporated in 2001^[4] and had an estimated population of 59 in 2007.^[5] The population was still 59 at the time of the 2020 census.^[6]

The source of IXL's unusual^[7] name is disputed. A 2012 article on the town's website explained that the name derived from Indian Exchange Land, a reference to the town being on Mvskoke land.^[8] Other sources claim that the letters were taken from the names of three men.^[1][9] Some people think it’s an onomatopoeic boast suggesting "I excel."^[10]

This town should not be confused with Oklahoma towns in Kay County and Tillman County which also bears the "IXL" name.^[1]

Demographics

As of 2024, the population for IXL was 59. 56.67% of residents were Black or African American, 20% were two or more races, 16.67% were Native American, and 6.67% of residents were white. ^[11]

Historical population

Census	Pop.	Note	%±
2010	51		—
2020	59		15.7%
U.S. Decennial Census[12]