Bandera Cemetery
Historical marker location:The Bandera Cemetery has served the town of Bandera since the 1850s. The site's oldest burial dates to 1851, before the town's establishment several years later. Many former community leaders of the area are buried in the cemetery. In addition, there are a number of veterans interred here, some involved in military conflicts dating to the Mexican American War (1846-1848) and earlier. Members of fraternal organizations are also among those represented here.
Ownership of the land can be traced back to Hendrick Arnold, a free African American who was a guide and spy suring the Texas Revolution. He joined the revolt with his father-in-law, Erastus (Deaf) Smith, who led the celebrated spy company of which Arnold was part. After several transactions over the years, the section of Arnold's land which became the burial ground was deeded to the Bandera Cemetery Association, which seven women organized in 1907. Today, the burial ground continues to serve the community as an active cemetery and remains an important part of Bandera's history.
Historic Texas Cemetery - 2006
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
The first domed stadium in the world, the Astrodome, was built in Houston in 1965 and hosted numerous sporting events and concerts over the years.
The first recorded settlement in Bandera County was established in 1852 by John James and Charles DeMontel. The town of Bandera was soon founded, and in 1856, Bandera County was officially created. The county was named after the nearby Bandera Pass, a mountain pass that was used by early Spanish explorers as a trail marker.
During the 19th century, Bandera County became an important center for ranching and agriculture. The fertile land and abundant water sources made it an ideal location for raising cattle and farming. The region quickly developed a reputation for its strong cowboy and ranching culture.
In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil in nearby counties brought economic prosperity to Bandera County. Numerous oil wells were drilled, and the area experienced a boom in population and development. Despite the decline of the oil industry in later years, Bandera County continues to thrive as a popular tourist destination, known for its historic downtown, natural beauty, and western heritage.
Today, Bandera County remains a charming rural community that celebrates its rich history and maintains its Western traditions. Visitors can explore the numerous historic sites, museums, and cowboy-themed events, immersing themselves in the county's unique culture and heritage.
Bandera County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Bandera County, Texas.
- 1856 - Bandera County is created from parts of Bexar, Uvalde, Medina, and Kerr counties.
- Late 1850s - Settlers begin to establish homesteads and ranches in the area.
- 1870 - The first courthouse is built in Bandera, the county seat.
- Late 1870s - The population booms due to the expansion of the cattle industry.
- 1891 - The Bandera County Courier newspaper is founded.
- 1933 - The Bandera Electric Cooperative is formed to bring electricity to rural areas.
- 1940s - Ranching and farming become the primary economic activities in the county.
- 1975 - Bandera becomes the "Cowboy Capital of the World" and hosts the first Cowboy Capital Rodeo.
- 2002 - The Bandera County Library is opened.