John Paney Bertrand
Historical marker location:John Raney Bertrand was born in Brazoria County, the son of French immigrants who came to Texas before the Texas Revolution. He was a partner in a mercantile business in Washington County for several years before leaving to join the Confederate Army in the Civil War. In 1869 he married Mary Frances Cayce, and moved to Coryell County in 1875, settling on 312 acres. He built a log cabin for his family of eight children, raised livestock and farmed the land
April 12, 1861: The Civil War begins with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, located in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor.
April 15, 1861: President Abraham Lincoln issues a call for 75,000 volunteers to serve in the Union Army to suppress the rebellion.
May 24, 1861: The first major land battle, known as the First Battle of Bull Run (or First Battle of Manassas), takes place in Virginia. It ends in Confederate victory.
September 17, 1862: The Battle of Antietam in Maryland becomes the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Union forces, commanded by General George McClellan, manage to halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into Union territory.
January 1, 1863: President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories are to be set free. However, the proclamation does not immediately free all slaves in the United States.
July 1-3, 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania takes place, resulting in a significant Union victory and inflicting heavy casualties on Confederate forces. It marks a turning point in the war.
November 19, 1863: President Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and the preservation of the Union.
April 9, 1865: General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.
April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.
May 10, 1865: Confederate President Jefferson Davis is captured, signaling the collapse of the Confederate government.
December 6, 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery throughout the country.
While this timeline provides an overview of key events, it is important to note that the Civil War spanned over four years, from 1861 to 1865, and encompassed numerous battles, campaigns, and political developments that shaped the course of American history.
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.
During the Texas Revolution and the subsequent establishment of the Republic of Texas, Coryell County saw significant growth. The area attracted pioneers and settlers who were drawn by the fertile land along the rivers. In 1854, the county was officially organized and named after James Coryell, an early frontiersman who was known for exploring and surveying the area.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Coryell County experienced periods of prosperity and challenges. Agriculture, particularly cotton production, played a significant role in the local economy. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century enhanced the county's connectivity and spurred growth in trade and commerce.
The county also contributed to the military history of Texas. During World War II, Camp Hood (now Fort Hood) was established in the southern part of Coryell County. The military installation has had a profound impact on the local economy, serving as an economic engine and a significant employer for the region.
Today, Coryell County continues to thrive as a vibrant community. It is home to a diverse population and offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes. The county's rich history can be seen in its historic buildings, museums, and landmarks, all of which provide a glimpse into the past and contribute to the county's unique cultural identity.
Coryell County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Coryell County, Texas.
- 1854 - Coryell County is established by the Texas legislature.
- 1859 - The county seat, Gatesville, is established.
- 1861-1865 - The American Civil War impacts Coryell County, leading to economic hardships.
- 1872 - The Texas Central Railroad is completed, boosting the county's economy.
- 1882 - The first county courthouse is constructed.
- 1905 - The original county courthouse is replaced with a new building.
- 1929 - The Coryell County Museum opens, showcasing the area's history.
- 1942-1946 - The county experiences growth during World War II due to the establishment of Camp Hood (now Fort Hood).
- 1963 - The current county courthouse is built, replacing the 1905 building.
- 1997 - The Coryell County Courthouse is added to the National Register of Historic Places.