Dickens County Courthouse and Jail
Dickens Texas Significance:Jurisdiction:
State Antiquities Landmarks (SALs) are designated by the Texas Historical Commission (THC) and receive legal protection under the Antiquities Code of Texas (the Code). The Code defines all cultural resources on non-federal public lands in the State of Texas as eligible to be designated as SALs. Historic buildings and other aboveground historic resources must be listed in the National Register of Historic Places before they can be designated as SALs, but archeological sites do not have the same prerequisite.
SAL designation does not mean that sites or buildings cannot be altered or destroyed. The land-owning agency must consult with the THC about such proposed actions through the permit process, and the THC will determine whether the work will be allowed.
Buildings designated as SALs are listed in the Texas Historic Sites Atlas. However, information about designated archeological sites is not available to the general public to protect the sites from vandalism and destruction.
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.
In 1876, Dickens County was officially established and named after J. Dickens, a famous Texas veteran of the American Civil War. The county remained sparsely populated for several years until the Fort Worth and Denver City Railway reached the area in the 1880s. This led to an influx of settlers and the establishment of towns such as Spur, the county seat, and Afton.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed a rapid growth in Dickens County. The agricultural industry thrived, with cotton becoming the main cash crop. Cattle ranching also played a significant role in the county's economy. The discovery of oil in the early 1900s further boosted development and brought in additional revenue.
However, like many other areas in Texas, Dickens County faced challenges during the Great Depression. The agricultural sector suffered, and many residents were forced to leave in search of better opportunities. Despite these hardships, the county gradually recovered and saw renewed growth in the post-World War II era.
Today, Dickens County is an important part of the region's agricultural industry, primarily producing cotton, wheat, and livestock. It also attracts visitors with its scenic landscapes, historic sites, and annual events celebrating its western heritage. The county's rich history and resilience continue to shape its identity and contribute to its vibrant community.
Dickens County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Dickens County, Texas.
- 1876 - Dickens County, Texas is established on August 21
- 1886 - The town of Dickens is established as the county seat
- 1890 - First census records a population of 1,972 in the county
- 1891 - The Dickens County Courthouse is built
- 1909 - The Texas Central Railroad reaches Dickens County, boosting economic growth
- 1926 - Route 82 becomes the first paved highway in the county
- 1940 - Peak population of 5,967 is recorded
- 1953 - The McAdoo oilfield is discovered, leading to increased oil production in the county
- 1974 - The Rocker B Ranch, covering over 100,000 acres, becomes the largest private ranch in the county
- 1990 - Population drops to 2,762 as agriculture becomes less dominant
- 2007 - The Dickens County Wind Farm is established, taking advantage of the area's strong winds for renewable energy