Historical Marker

Community of Concho

Historical marker location:
Paint Rock vicinity, Texas
( from Paint Rock, take US 83 north about 4.5 miles then go east on FM 1929 about 7 miles)
Marker installed: 1983
Marker size: 18" x 28"

As settlers came to the area in the late 1800's, a small farming community developed here along the Concho River. In 1905 a post office opened in the home of W. D. Cape. In 1906 J. W. Barr (d. 1964) opened a general store at this site. As the business center for the surrounding rural area, the settlement was also the site of a school, two churches, a cotton gin, a blacksmith shop, and a cemetery. Although the population had declined by the 1940's and the post office was closed in 1954, the site of the pioneer community serves as a reminder of the area's early settlers. (1983)

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.

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Texas random facts
Concho County, located in west-central Texas, has a rich and diverse history that traces back to ancient Native American tribes. The region was initially inhabited by several groups, including the Lipan Apache and Comanche tribes, who relied on the rivers, lakes, and grasslands for their sustenance. However, with the arrival of Spanish explorers in the 16th century, the area became part of Spain's North American empire.

In the early 1800s, Concho County was still largely unsettled, but with the establishment of the Republic of Texas in 1836, Anglo-American settlers began to arrive. This led to conflicts with the Native American tribes, culminating in the Battle of Dove Creek in 1865, when Texas Rangers and local militia fought against Comanche warriors.

By the late 19th century, Concho County's economy relied on agriculture, particularly cattle ranching and farming. The rise of the railroad in the region further facilitated trade and transportation, leading to the growth of small towns like Paint Rock and Eden. Concho County's population continued to increase steadily throughout the 20th century.

Today, Concho County is known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. With its picturesque landscapes, including the Concho River and vast grasslands, the county attracts visitors for outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, and bird-watching. The county's history is celebrated and preserved through local museums, historic buildings, and annual events, showcasing the rich heritage of the region.

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

  • 1858 - Concho County is created from parts of Bexar, Travis, and Young counties.
  • 1875 - First post office is established in Concho County.
  • 1882 - The town of Paint Rock is founded.
  • 1886 - The town of Eden is established.
  • 1889 - The town of Eola is founded.
  • 1889 - The town of Millersview is established.
  • 1889 - A public water system is installed in Concho County.
  • 1890 - The town of Lowake is founded.
  • 1892 - The town of Arden is established.
  • 1895 - Oil is discovered in Concho County, leading to increased development.
  • 1910 - Concho County has a population of over 5,000.
  • 1936 - Concho County courthouse is built.
  • 1941 - Paint Rock ISD is created.
  • 1960s - Concho County experiences a decline in population due to agricultural changes.
  • 1995 - The Devil's Sinkhole State Natural Area is established in Concho County.