State Antiquities Landmark

Dimmit County Courthouse

303 South 5th Street, Carrizo Springs Texas
Significance:
Historic Bldg.

Jurisdiction:
County of Dimmit

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.

houses residential buildings women women's history topics Victorian (architectural style) design and construction
The cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Texas random facts
Dimmit County, located in southwest Texas, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Coahuiltecans, before European settlement began in the 18th century. Spanish explorers and missionaries, such as Alonso de León and Fray Juan de Salas, were some of the first Europeans to arrive in the region.

In the early 19th century, as Texas gained its independence from Spain and Mexico, Dimmit County became a center for ranching and agriculture. As more settlers arrived, small towns such as Carrizo Springs and Asherton were established, fostering the growth of the local economy. The county's economy thrived on the cattle industry and the abundance of natural resources, such as oil and gas.

During the Mexican Revolution in the early 20th century, Dimmit County experienced significant turmoil due to its proximity to the Mexican border. Border conflicts and the presence of bandits posed a threat to the safety and stability of the region. However, with the establishment of the Texas Rangers and enhanced border security, Dimmit County gradually regained its peace.

Today, Dimmit County continues to be a thriving economic center, with the oil and gas industry playing a vital role in its development. The county is also home to a diverse population, with a mix of Mexican American, Anglo-American, and Native American residents, all contributing to its rich cultural heritage. Its picturesque landscapes, including the scenic Brush Country, make Dimmit County an attractive destination for tourists and nature lovers alike.

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

  • 1858 - Dimmit County is established on February 1.
  • 1876 - Carrizo Springs becomes the county seat.
  • 1880 - The San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway reaches Carrizo Springs, boosting economic development.
  • 1900 - The population of Dimmit County reaches 5,864.
  • 1919 - Construction of Highway 57 begins, connecting Dimmit County to neighboring areas.
  • 1930 - The population of Dimmit County peaks at 9,527.
  • 1953 - Pico #1 oil well is drilled, leading to an oil boom in the area.
  • 1994 - The Texas Water Development Board designates Dimmit County as part of the Middle Rio Grande Groundwater Conservation District.