Historical Marker

Falfurrias

Historical marker location:
E. Rice St., Falfurrias, Texas
( Pioneer Park, at Rice and St. Mary's Streets, Falfurrias (at jct. SH 285 and US 281).)
Marker installed: 1971
Marker size: 18" x 28"

Founded as a cattle shipping point by Edward C. Lasater, 1904, town bears name of a village on land he purchased in 1893. When the San Antonio & Aransas Pass Railroad extended its lines, Lasater (1860-1930) platted present townsite, built a hotel, general store, water and power plants, and cotton gin. He opened area to truck, citrus, and dairy farms. He founded South Texas' first creamery--now widely recognized. A post office, newspaper, churches, and schools were opened. A citrus packing plant was built in 1914. Still later the city became an oil and gas production center

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.

cities and towns settlements
The discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum industry.
Texas random facts
Brooks County, located in southern Texas, has a rich history that spans several centuries. The region that is now Brooks County was originally inhabited by various indigenous tribes, including the Coahuiltecan and Karankawa peoples. In the 18th century, Spanish explorers and missionaries began to settle in the area, establishing missions and ranches. This marked the beginning of European influence and colonization in the region.

During the Texas Revolution in the 1830s, Brooks County became a significant battleground between Mexican troops and Texan rebels. The Battle of Espantosa, fought in the county in 1835, was a notable conflict that helped secure Texan independence from Mexico. After the revolution, the region experienced a surge in population as settlers arrived from the United States, seeking new opportunities in farming and ranching.

The establishment of the King Ranch, one of the largest and most influential ranches in the state, in the mid-19th century had a significant impact on Brooks County. The ranch brought economic stability, creating jobs and boosting the local economy. As the ranching industry grew, so did the county's population and reputation as a center for livestock production.

Brooks County also has a troubled past related to racial tensions and civil rights struggles. During the early 20th century, the county was a hotspot for racial violence against African Americans and Mexican Americans. The infamous "brooks county murders" in 1919, where several Black individuals were lynched by a mob, highlight the dark side of the county's history. Despite these challenges, Brooks County has evolved and grown over time, and today, it continues to thrive as an important agricultural and cultural hub in Texas.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Brooks County, Texas.

  • 1848: Brooks County is established by the Texas Legislature, named after James Abijah Brooks, a Texas Ranger and a Texas Revolution veteran.
  • 1857: The first permanent settlement is established in Brooks County near the present-day town of Falfurrias.
  • 1870: Falfurrias is founded and becomes the county seat of Brooks County.
  • 1904: The St. Louis, Brownsville and Mexico Railway reaches Falfurrias, boosting the town's economic growth.
  • 1919: The discovery of oil and gas in the county brings a new wave of prosperity.
  • 1920s-1930s: The population of Brooks County increases rapidly due to the oil and gas industry, agriculture, and ranching.
  • 1940s-1950s: Brooks County sees a decline in population due to the depletion of oil and gas resources.
  • 1990s: Falfurrias experiences economic growth with the establishment of several manufacturing and processing plants.
  • 2005: Hurricane Katrina brings heavy rainfall and flooding to Brooks County, causing significant damage.
  • Present: Brooks County continues to be an important agricultural and ranching region in Texas, known for its cattle ranches and citrus orchards.