Historical Marker

Fiftieth Anniversary Celebration of the American Declaration of Independence

Historical marker location:
605 Spring Street, Columbus, Texas
( Spring and Bowie St. Columbus)
Marker installed: 1975
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Most of the "Old Three Hundred" settlers in Stephen F. Austin's first Texas Colony in the early 1820s came from the United States and were proud of their Anglo-America Heritage. Austin discouraged any display of American loyalties which might anger the Mexican authorities or violate colonization laws. Many customs persisted, however, including observance of July Fourth as American Independence Day. On July 4, 1826, settlers around Beason's Crossing, nucleus of the present town of Columbus, planned a barbecue to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of the signing of the American Declaration of Independence. No doubt, many colonists traveled long distances for this important gathering.

West of the Colorado River in Green DeWittt's Colony, a small group set out from Gonzales on July 2 to attend the barbecue at Beason's. While camped for the night, they were attacked by Indians but managed to escape. Returning to Gonzales, they found their homes plundered and one man killed. The other settlers were visiting at a nearby cabin and escaped the Indian raid. The survivors then proceeded to the safety of older settlements along the the Colorado. (1976)

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.

fairs and festivals Native American
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
Colorado County, located in southeastern Texas, has a rich and varied history that stretches back to its establishment in 1836 as part of the Republic of Texas. The county was named after the Colorado River, which flows through it. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American groups, including the Karankawa and the Coahuiltecan tribes. The first European settlers arrived in the early 1820s, and by the 1830s, the region had become a hub for Anglo-American colonization.

During the Republic of Texas era, Colorado County saw rapid growth and development. The county seat, Columbus, was established in 1839 and quickly became a major commercial center. The town served as an important stop on the Old San Felipe Road, a major transportation route connecting East and Central Texas. The discovery of oil and gas in the region in the early 20th century further fueled the county's growth and economic prosperity.

Colorado County played an important role during the Civil War. Many residents of German descent who settled in the county were Union sympathizers, while others supported the Confederacy. The county witnessed several skirmishes and military actions, including the Battle of Columbus in 1862, when Confederate forces repelled a Union raid. After the war, the county slowly rebuilt its economy and infrastructure.

In the 20th century, Colorado County diversified its economy beyond agriculture. The discovery of oil and gas led to the development of a thriving energy industry, and manufacturing and services sectors also grew. Today, Colorado County is a mix of suburban and rural areas, with agriculture, oil and gas, and tourism forming the pillars of its economy. The county continues to preserve its historical sites and celebrate its diverse heritage, attracting visitors from across the state and beyond.

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

  • 1821: The area that would become Colorado County, TX is included in Austin's Colony, established by the Mexican government.
  • 1835: The area plays a role in the Texas Revolution as volunteers from Colorado County participate in the Battle of Gonzales.
  • 1837: Colorado County is officially established as a county in the Republic of Texas.
  • 1838: Columbus is selected as the county seat.
  • 1846: Colorado County is incorporated into the state of Texas as it becomes part of the United States.
  • 1850s: The county experiences rapid growth as more settlers move into the area, establishing farms and ranches.
  • 1861: With the outbreak of the Civil War, many residents of Colorado County actively support the Confederacy.
  • 1870s: The county's economy starts to diversify with the discovery of oil, leading to the establishment of oil wells and refineries.
  • 1935: The Lower Colorado River Authority is established, and dams are constructed in the area for flood control and water supply.
  • 1970s: Colorado County experiences an agricultural decline as farming becomes less profitable.
  • 1997: The Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long Center for the Performing Arts is opened in Austin, providing a cultural center for the region.