Historical Markers in
Atascosa County, Texas

Amphion and Amphion Cemetery Anchorage Cemetery Atascosa County Atascosa County Courthouse Atascosa County Courthouse Atascosa Lodge No. 379, A.F. and A.M. Battle of Medina Benton City Cemetery Benton City Institute, The Brite Cemetery Campbellton Capt. Peter F. Tumlinson Chilipitin Cemetery Cooper Chapter No. 101, Royal Arch Masons Coughran Dr. Ben and Mona Parker and KBOP Radio First Baptist Church of Jourdanton First Baptist Church of Lytle First Baptist Church of Pleasanton First Baptist Church of Poteet First Presbyterian Church of Pleasanton George Washington Marion Duck Hooge Hill Jourdan Campbell Jourdanton Jourdanton City Cemetery Jourdanton I.S.D Jourdanton United Methodist Church Lytle Methodist Church Martin Abstract Company Mercy Hospital North Pleasanton Old Atascosa County Jail Old Rock Baptist Church Old Rock Schoolhouse Pleasanton Pleasanton Church of Christ Pleasanton City Cemetery Pleasanton City Cemetery Pleasanton First United Methodist Church Pleasanton School Integration Poteet Ralph Roy Smith Rancho del Atascoso Robert E. Neill Rossville Rossville Cemetery San Antonio, Uvalde and Gulf Railroad Sand Branch Baptist Church Second Baptist Church Shiloh Cemetery Site of Jose Antonio Navarro Ranch Headquarters Site of San Augustine Church St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church St. Joseph's Catholic Church St. Matthew Catholic Parish Thomas Ransdell Brite Town of Fashing Verdi
Texas was once an independent country: After winning its independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas became its own country, known as the Republic of Texas. It existed as an independent nation for nine years before being annexed by the United States in 1845.
Texas random facts
Atascosa County, located in south-central Texas, has a rich and diverse history spanning hundreds of years. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Coahuiltecan and Lipan Apache. Spanish explorers arrived in the 18th century, with the area eventually becoming part of the San Antonio de Béxar (San Antonio) Spanish colonial outpost.

In the early 19th century, the region experienced a migration of American settlers. Atascosa County, named after the Atascosa River that flows through it, was officially established in 1856. The county played a significant role in the Texas Revolution, with several battles fought in the area. The region's fertile land attracted farmers and ranchers, leading to the growth of the agricultural industry. Cattle ranching soon became a dominant economic activity, and the county became known for its large cattle drives and sprawling ranches.

During the Civil War, Atascosa County sided with the Confederacy, and the conflict brought some challenges to the area. However, after the war, the county experienced a period of growth and development. Railroads were constructed, connecting the county to larger markets, and the establishment of towns and communities brought further prosperity.

In the 20th century, Atascosa County continued to thrive economically, primarily due to agriculture, particularly cotton and corn farming. Oil and gas exploration also became significant industries in the region. The growth of cities such as Pleasanton and Jourdanton brought increased infrastructure and amenities to the area. Today, Atascosa County is an important part of the South Texas economy, contributing to agriculture, oil and gas, and tourism. Its history and heritage are celebrated through various cultural events and historical landmarks.

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

  • 1856 - Atascosa County is officially established by the Texas state legislature.
  • 1872 - The county's first courthouse is built in Pleasanton.
  • 1881 - The San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway is completed, bringing a significant boost to the county's economy.
  • 1890 - Tornadoes cause extensive damage in the county, leading to rebuilding efforts.
  • 1898 - The county's second courthouse is constructed, replacing the original one.
  • 1908 - The discovery of oil in the county leads to an oil boom, bringing economic prosperity.
  • 1920s - Atascosa County experiences a decline in agriculture due to the boll weevil infestation.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression leads to economic hardships in the county.
  • 1940s - World War II brings changes to the county, including the establishment of a military training base.
  • 1960s - Construction of Interstate 37 brings improved transportation infrastructure to the county.
  • 1970s - Atascosa County's population starts to grow significantly, leading to increased development.
  • 1990s - The county experiences further population growth and urbanization.
  • 2005 - Hurricane Emily causes widespread damage in the county.
  • Present - Atascosa County continues to be a mix of rural and urban communities, with a diverse economy.