Historical Marker

Bandera County

Historical marker location:
SH 16 S, Bandera, Texas
( 600 block SH 16 S, in pullout on north side of SH 16, east of Old San Antonio Road.)
Marker installed: 1936
Marker size: 1936 Texas Centennial highway marker (pink granite and bronze)

A strategic Indian point in early days. Rangers and Comanches struggled here in 1843. In 1854 Elder Lyman Wight settled Mormon colony. In 1855 Poles settled here. From early days a part of Bexar County, created and organized in 1856. Bandera, the county seat founded by John James, Charles de Montel and John Herndon in 1853

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.

counties rangers religious leaders Native American
Texas is known for its barbecue, and one of the most famous barbecue restaurants in the state is Kreuz Market in Lockhart. The restaurant has been in operation since 1900 and is still family-owned.
Texas random facts
Bandera County, located in Texas, has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. The area was initially home to various Native American tribes, including the Lipan Apache and Comanche tribes, who resided along the banks of the Medina River. However, it was in the early 19th century that European settlers began to arrive in the region.

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.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history 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.