Historic Courthouse

Carson County Courthouse

Panhandle, Texas

Built in 1950 in Moderne Style architectual style by architect J. C. Berry.

Three-story on raised basement, brick, concrete and steel, seven-bay building. Basement level is of dark stone and other levels of blond brick. Center entrance is vertical pavilion of light stone with frieze carved in relief depicting common landmarks of the area(oil wells, cattle, canyons, etc.). Top floor is set back with bars on the windows. All other windows are simple, one-over-one sash windows. Detailed freize over entry doors depict Carson County's economic strengths.

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Current status: Active Courthouse

The Texas Historical Commission's (THC) nationally recognized and award-winning Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program (THCPP) has turned around the trend of disrepair and begun restoring these treasured historic landmarks. Texas has more historic courthouses than any other state. Today more than 240 courthouses still stand that are least 50 years old. About 80 were built before the turn of the 20th century. By the end of that century, most of these structures were significantly deteriorated due to inadequate maintenance, insensitive modifications or weather related damage. The Texas Historical Commission (THC) documented the condition of 50 of the state’s oldest courthouses in the late 1990s and determined that counties lacked the resources to preserve the buildings for future generations.

military topics Mission (architectural style) forts
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.
Texas random facts
Carson County, located in the northern region of Texas, has a rich history that dates back to before European settlement. The area was initially inhabited by several Native American groups, including the Comanche, Kiowa, and Apache tribes, who lived off the land and thrived in the surrounding grasslands and rivers.

European settlers began arriving in Carson County in the mid-19th century, drawn by the prospect of vast grazing land and opportunities for ranching. In 1876, the county was officially established and named after Samuel P. Carson, a scout and buffalo hunter. With the arrival of the Fort Worth and Denver City Railroad in the 1880s, the county experienced rapid growth, attracting both ranchers and farmers to the area.

The early 20th century brought economic diversification to Carson County, with the discovery of oil and gas reserves. This newfound wealth fueled further development and population growth in the region. In the 1920s, the construction of Texas State Highway 3 (now known as U.S. Route 60) through the county enhanced transportation, making it easier to access the surrounding cities.

Carson County played a prominent role during World War II, as it became the location of the Pantex Ordnance Plant in 1942. The plant served as a vital component of the Manhattan Project, manufacturing and assembling nuclear weapons. Today, the Pantex Plant continues to operate and plays a significant role in the defense industry, employing many residents of Carson County.

Throughout its history, Carson County has evolved from a land of Native American tribes and open prairies to a thriving community with a diverse economy. It boasts a rich heritage of ranching, farming, oil production, and defense industries. Despite the challenges and changes over time, the county continues to preserve its history while embracing progress and growth.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Carson County, Texas.

  • 1876 - Carson County was organized and named after Samuel Price Carson, a pioneer settler in the area.
  • 1886 - The first post office, Panhandle City, was established.
  • 1890 - Panhandle City became the county seat.
  • 1902 - The Chicago, Rock Island and Gulf Railway was built through the county, boosting economic growth.
  • 1926 - The iconic Route 66 was established, passing through the county and bringing increased tourism.
  • 1930s - The Dust Bowl hit Carson County, leading to severe agricultural and economic challenges.
  • 1942 - The Pantex Ordnance Plant was established, becoming a major employer in the area during World War II.
  • 1956 - Route 66 was bypassed by Interstate 40, leading to a decline in local businesses.
  • 1984 - The last segment of Route 66 in Texas was officially decommissioned.
  • Present - Carson County continues to be an important transportation hub with Interstate 40 and a strong agriculture-based economy.