Historical Marker

City of Caldwell

Historical marker location:
Caldwell, Texas
( Courthouse Square Echols @ Buck Sts. Caldwell)
Marker installed: 1982
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In 1840 the Republic of Texas Congress annexed to Milam County all of Washington County north of Yegua Creek and west of the Brazos River. The name Caldwell, which honored Mathew "Old Paint" Caldwell, a noted pioneer and a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence, was chosen for a settlement that would become the seat of a future county. Following a land title dispute, this site was selected for the proposed town. Located on the Old San Antonio Road, it had been settled earlier by Virginia native Lewis L. Chiles, a veteran of the Battle of San Jacinto who had operated a trading post on Davidson Creek.

George B. Erath platted the town of Caldwell in 1840. Streets running parallel to the Old San Antonio road were named for native animals and intersecting streets were named for the commissioners who had selected the townsite. When Burleson County was created six years later, Caldwell became the permanent seat of government.

Incorporated in 1891, Caldwell developed as a major agricultural shipping center with the completion of area rail lines in 1890 and 1912. Since the 1840s the city has played a vital role in the region through its steady commercial growth and rich heritage.

(1892)

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
The Texas Rangers, a famous law enforcement agency, were first organized in 1835 to protect settlers from Native American attacks.
Texas random facts
Burleson County, Texas has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s when it was established as part of Stephen F. Austin's colony. The area was initially settled by farmers and ranchers, attracted by the fertile land along the rivers, including the Brazos River. Burleson County was officially formed in 1846 and named after Edward Burleson, a hero of the Texas Revolution.

During the Civil War, Burleson County saw its fair share of turmoil. Many of its residents enlisted in the Confederate Army, while others supported the Union. The county was occupied by Union troops for a short period, which caused further division among its residents.

In the late 19th century, the county experienced an economic boom with the expansion of the railroad. The arrival of the Houston and Texas Central Railway in the 1870s brought new opportunities for trade and commerce. Several communities, such as Caldwell and Snook, were established along the railroad routes and became important shipping centers for agricultural products.

Agriculture remained the backbone of the county's economy throughout the 20th century. Cotton, corn, and livestock farming were the mainstay of Burleson County's agricultural industry. The county also experienced growth in oil and gas production during the mid-20th century. In recent years, the county has diversified its economy with the growth of manufacturing and services sectors.

Today, Burleson County is a thriving community with a blend of rural charm and economic development. Its rich history is celebrated through various events and festivals, such as the Burleson County Czech Heritage Festival and the Caldwell Kolache Festival. The county's natural beauty, historic landmarks, and vibrant community make it a desirable place to live, work, and visit.

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

  • 1841 - Burleson County is established as a part of the Republic of Texas
  • 1851 - The county seat is established in Caldwell
  • 1861-1865 - Burleson County residents actively participate in the American Civil War
  • 1870s - The county experiences growth with the arrival of the Houston and Texas Central Railroad
  • 1881 - A fire destroys many buildings in Caldwell
  • 1903 - The Texas A&M Southwest Experiment Station is established in Burleson County
  • 1930s - The Great Depression brings economic hardship to the county
  • 1940 - Oil and gas discoveries bring some economic relief to Burleson County
  • 1976 - The Burleson County Historical Society is formed
  • 1990 - The population of Burleson County reaches its peak at over 21,000 residents
  • 2000s - The county continues to focus on agricultural and oil industries while experiencing some population growth