Lindsey-Gore Home
Attorney and politician Newton R. Lindsey (1847 – 1908) constructed this home between 1881 and 1888. Born in Alabama, Lindsey served in the Confederate army during the Civil War and attended college and law school before settling in Comanche County in 1874. He was elected county attorney in 1876, and among others prosecuted noted outlaw John Wesley Hardin, who was found guilty of Charles Webb’s murder. In 1878, he married Virginia Josephine Hart (1852 – 1938), whom he had met while attending school in Mississippi. The couple resided in this home with additional family, including Virginia’s sister Ida hart, a musician and teacher.
N.R. Lindsey was a lifelong public servant. After his stint as county attorney, N.R lindsey served as a delegate to the 1880 democratic convention, texas state representative, school trustee and multiple-term mayor of Comanche. As right-of-way agent for the Fort Worth and Rio Grande Railroad, he was active in efforts to bring the railroad through Comanche. From 1898 until 1903, Lindsey served as judge for district 42, and then for district 53 until his death.
In 1941, this property was sold to Melvin E. “Shorty” Gore (1901 – 1959). Gore, an entrepreneur and rancher, lived here with his wife Ava (1905 – 1997) and sons Jimmy E. and Walter Jack, who both served in the military. The property stayed in the Gore family until 1998. This two-story house is of limestone construction, from stone quarried near Comanche. Walls are up to 18 inches thick and feature rough-cut stones, dressed stone quoins and half timbering. The cross gabled plan features a square tower, projecting bay and full arch hooded windows and entry door with keystones
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.
Texas was once an independent country: After winning its independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas became its own country, known as the Republic of Texas. It existed as an independent nation for nine years before being annexed by the United States in 1845.
In the early 19th century, European settlers began to explore and establish settlements in the area. In 1854, the Texas Legislature officially created Comanche County, named after the Comanche tribe. The county was initially part of the vast Erath County before being designated as an independent entity. The growth of Comanche County was primarily driven by agriculture and cattle ranching, with farmers and ranchers taking advantage of the fertile land and abundant natural resources.
The county experienced rapid development during the late 19th century with the arrival of the Texas Central Railroad in 1885. The railroad provided a crucial transportation link for the county, connecting it to larger cities and markets, which further stimulated economic growth. The population increased, and new towns, including Comanche, emerged along the railroad lines. These towns became centers for commerce, trade, and social activity.
Comanche County played a significant role in the development of Texas and the United States. It witnessed the impact of various historical events, such as the American Civil War, where many residents served in the Confederate Army. Over the years, Comanche County has evolved, adapting to changes in the agricultural, industrial, and technological sectors. Today, the county remains a vibrant community that celebrates its history while embracing modern advancements.
Comanche County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Comanche County, Texas.
- 1854 - Comanche County is established
- 1858 - Official county government is organized
- 1861-1865 - Comanche County supports the Confederacy during the Civil War
- 1875 - The county's first post office is opened
- 1877 - Comanche County is hit by a major drought
- 1881 - The Texas Central Railway is completed, boosting the county's economy
- 1890 - The town of Comanche becomes the county seat
- 1908 - Comanche County's courthouse is constructed
- 1920s - The county experiences an oil boom that brings prosperity and growth
- 1940s - Comanche County contributes to the war effort during World War II
- 1960s-1970s - The county's population declines due to economic changes
- 2010 - Comanche County's population reaches its peak