Historical Marker

Offenhauser Building

Historical marker location:
Texarkana, Texas
( Texarkana Historical Museum; State Line Ave. and Third St.)
Marker installed: 1965
Marker size: Medallion & Plate

First brick structure in Texarkana, built about 1879 for First National Bank. On second floor was Kelsey & Offenhauser Insurance Agency. Here in 1883, pioneer businessman F. W. Offenahuser, later a leading agent in Texas and Arkansas, wrote his first insurance policy.

Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1965

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.

commercial buildings
Texas is home to the world's largest bat colony. The Bracken Bat Cave, near San Antonio, is home to millions of Mexican free-tailed bats.
Texas random facts
Bowie County, Texas has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 19th century. The county was named after James Bowie, a prominent figure in the Texas Revolution. Bowie County was established in 1840, when it was separated from the larger Red River County. Originally, this area was inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee people.

During the 19th century, Bowie County played a significant role in the fight for Texas independence. The county was a major thoroughfare for pioneers heading westward on the El Camino Real, a trade route connecting Mexico and the United States. In the 1830s and 1840s, conflicts with Native American tribes occurred as settlers moved into the region. The Battle of Brinkley's Station in 1838, for example, was a significant clash between settlers and the Cherokee Nation.

The discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought prosperity and development to Bowie County. oil fields were discovered in 1928, leading to a boom in population and economic growth. The town of DeKalb, located in Bowie County, became known as the "Oil Capital of Northeast Texas." The oil industry brought numerous jobs and investment to the county, and continues to be an important part of its economy to this day.

Today, Bowie County is home to a diverse population and offers a mix of rural and urban attractions. The county seat, Texarkana, is a unique city that straddles the Texas-Arkansas border and is known as the "Twin Cities." It serves as a regional hub for commerce, education, and healthcare. Bowie County also boasts natural attractions such as the Wright Patman Lake and the Sulphur River Wildlife Management Area, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

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

  • 1840s - The area that is now Bowie County was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee.
  • 1835 - Texas gains independence from Mexico.
  • 1840 - Bowie County is created and named after James Bowie, a Texas Revolution hero.
  • 1876 - The city of Texarkana is established as a railroad junction between Texas and Arkansas.
  • 1900s - The oil industry becomes a major economic factor in the county.
  • 1942 - Red River Army Depot is established as a major military facility.
  • 1958 - Wright Patman Lake (Lake Texarkana) is created as a reservoir on the Sulphur River.
  • 1974 - The Bowie County Courthouse, built in 1891, is added to the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 1986 - The Texarkana Independent School District is formed, consolidating several smaller school districts.