Wavell's Colony
Historical marker location:Projected in 1826 by General Arthur G. Wavell, Scottish-born soldier of fortune. By terms of a Mexican grant, he agreed to introduce 400-500 families into an area on the Red River. Ben Milam, frontiersman, was agent.
Many pioneers were actually brought in, but because Mexico and the U. S. disputed part of the grant, no titles were ever issued by Wavell. Some settlers, however, later received titles from the Republic of Texas.
The colony included virtually all of present Bowie, Red River counties (Tex.), Miller county (Ark.), and possibly others to the west. (1969)
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 Battle of San Jacinto fought on April 21, 1836, was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution, and led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the conflict.
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.
Bowie County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey 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.