Historical Markers in
Aransas County, Texas

Aransas County Aransas County Aransas County Airport Baldwin-Brundrett House Baylor-Norvell House Bracht House Casterline Fish Company Cementerio San Antonio de Padua Connie Hagar First Baptist Church of Rockport First Methodist Church of Rockport First National Bank of Rockport First Presbyterian Church of Rockport Frandolig Island Fulton Fulton Cemetery Fulton Community Church Fulton Mansion Fulton Volunteer Fire Department Fulton-Bruhl House Home of George W. Fulton Hoopes-Smith House Hynes-Balthrope House Jackson Family Maritime Companies Joe A. and Bertha Harper House John Fagan Lamar Cemetery Lamar Volunteer Fire Department Mathis House Mc Lester Family Cemetery Mills Wharf Moore House Port Bay Hunting and Fishing Club Richard Henry Wood House Rockport Rockport Air Force Station Rockport Cemetery Rockport Marine Laboratory Rockport Pilot, The Rockport School Rockport Volunteer Fire Department Sacred Heart Catholic Church San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railroad in Rockport, The Site of Aransas Hotel Site of Heldenfels Shipyard Site of Marion Packing Co. Site of One of the Homes of James Power Site of the Town of Lamar Smith-Brundrett House Sorenson-Stair Building St. Peter's Episcopal Church Stella Maris Chapel The Cedars Woman's Club of Aransas County Wood-Jackson House
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
Texas random facts
Aransas County, located on the southwestern coast of Texas, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and Lipan Apache. Spanish explorers arrived in the 16th century, followed by French and English explorers in the 17th century. These early expeditions led to the establishment of Spanish missions and settlements in the region.

In the 19th century, Aransas County played a significant role in the fight for Texas independence from Mexico. The famous Battle of Refugio, a key engagement in the Texas Revolution, took place in the county in 1836. Following Texas' independence, Aransas County was officially established in 1871, named after the Aransas River, and Rockport became the county seat.

Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Aransas County thrived as a shipping and fishing hub. The construction of the railroad in the late 1800s greatly accelerated the county's growth, connecting Rockport to major cities and markets. The fishing industry also boomed, attracting entrepreneurs and providing economic stability.

However, the 20th century brought challenges to Aransas County, including economic recessions and natural disasters. Hurricanes, such as the devastating Hurricane Harvey in 2017, have had a significant impact on the county's coastal communities. Despite these obstacles, Aransas County has shown resilience and continues to attract tourists with its natural beauty, historic sites, and recreational opportunities, making it an important part of Texas history and culture.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Aransas County, Texas.

  • Pre-1800s: Aransas County was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Karankawa tribe, who relied on fishing and hunting for their livelihoods.
  • 1825: The area that would become Aransas County was part of the Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas.
  • 1834: The Mexican government granted a land title for the area to James Power and James Hewetson.
  • 1839: The Republic of Texas established Aransas County as one of its original counties. At this time, the county covered a much larger area than it does today.
  • 1850s: The county began to see increased settlement with the founding of towns like Rockport and Fulton, primarily due to the potential for trade and access to natural resources like timber, fish, and shellfish.
  • 1861-1865: Aransas County, like other parts of Texas, was greatly affected by the American Civil War. Union forces occupied the area at various times during the war.
  • Late 19th century: The county's economy continued to rely on industries like fishing, cattle ranching, and cotton farming. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further facilitated commerce in the region.
  • 20th century: The early 1900s brought changes to the county, including the arrival of the oil and gas industry, which brought new jobs and economic opportunities. Hurricane Harvey hit the county in 2017, causing significant damage but also spurring community recovery efforts.
  • Present day: Aransas County remains a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic coastal landscapes, wildlife habitats, and recreational activities like fishing and birdwatching.