Historical Marker

La Plata

Historical marker location:
Hereford, Texas
( from Hereford take US 385 north 14 miles, turn west onto F.M. 1412, continue for 11 miles, then follow county road MM south 4 miles to marker)
Marker installed: 1964
Marker size: 44" x 22" x 30" (red granite)

La Plata 1890-1898. First county seat of Deaf Smith County. Grenada was chosen as the county seat in the election separating Deaf Smith County from Oldham County on Oct. 3, 1890. The name was changed to La Plata (sometimes spelled La Platta). A year later ll buildings from the townsite at the center of this section were moved to Hereford when the county seat was moved there in 1898.

Erected under sponsorship of La Plata Study Club 1960

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.

ghost towns
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
Texas random facts
Deaf Smith County, located in the Panhandle of Texas, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The area was originally home to various Native American tribes, including the Apache and Comanche. However, after the Texas Revolution, settlers began to move into the region, leading to conflict with the native populations.

In 1876, the Texas Legislature established Deaf Smith County, named after Erastus "Deaf" Smith, a deaf mute scout and hero of the Texas Revolution. The county was officially organized in 1890 with the town of Hereford serving as the county seat. Agriculture quickly became the dominant industry, with cattle ranching and farming driving the local economy.

The arrival of the railroad in the early 1900s further spurred growth in Deaf Smith County. It opened up new markets and opportunities for farmers and ranchers to transport their goods. The population grew steadily, and new towns and communities were established throughout the area.

In the 20th century, Deaf Smith County faced a series of challenges, including the Dust Bowl of the 1930s and the Great Depression. However, the county survived and rebounded with the help of federal programs and initiatives. Today, the economy of Deaf Smith County is diversified, with agriculture, manufacturing, and retail sectors contributing to its prosperity. The county's rich history and resilient spirit continue to shape its identity and pave the way for a promising future.

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

  • 1838 - Josiah Hughes Bell settles in the area, becoming the first English-speaking settler in what is now Deaf Smith County
  • 1874 - The Texas Legislature officially establishes Deaf Smith County
  • 1881 - The town of Hereford is founded as the county seat
  • 1913 - The county experiences a major oil and gas boom, leading to rapid growth and economic prosperity
  • 1929 - The Great Depression hits, causing significant economic hardship in the county
  • 1935 - The Works Progress Administration (WPA) builds Palo Duro High School, the first high school in Deaf Smith County
  • 1955 - Pantex, a nuclear weapons assembly and disassembly facility, is established in the county, becoming a major employer and economic driver
  • 1969 - The Deaf Smith County Historical Society is founded to preserve and promote the county's history
  • 1995 - The Hereford Independent School District constructs a new high school building
  • 2017 - Deaf Smith County celebrates its 143rd anniversary