Historical Marker

The Old Rock House

Historical marker location:
Sylvester vicinity, Texas
( From Sylvester take SH 1085 south about 0.3 mile to dirt road veering to left. Follow dirt road onto ranch and to rock house.)
Marker installed: 1984
Marker size: 18" x 28"

In the 1880s Andy Long (b. 1850) began acquiring his 10,300-acre spread known as the "OB" Ranch. His landholdings surrounded what is now the town of Sylvester. This one-room rock house, built in 1883, served as ranch headquarters. Long stayed here while he was in the area working his cattle but maintained a home for his family in Sweetwater (25 mi. SW). The Old Rock House at times also served as living quarters of the ranch foreman. Andy Long sold the "OB" Ranch in 1901 to the Compere brothers for the purpose of colonization. (1984)

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.

ranching houses residential buildings
The Alamo, a mission in San Antonio, is perhaps the most famous historical site in Texas. It was the site of a key battle during the Texas Revolution in 1836.
Texas random facts
Fisher County, Texas, is located in the central part of the state and has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The county was named after Samuel Rhoads Fisher, a statesman and diplomat in the Republic of Texas. It was officially established on February 1, 1876, when it was separated from adjacent counties.

The early settlers of Fisher County were primarily ranchers and farmers who were attracted to the fertile land and abundance of water sources, particularly the Colorado River. These pioneers faced many challenges, including severe weather conditions and conflicts with Native American tribes in the area. However, they persevered and gradually developed thriving communities, mainly centered around farming and ranching.

The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s greatly enhanced the county's economic development. The railroad allowed for the transport of goods and improved access to markets, leading to the growth of towns such as Roby and Rotan. With the expansion of the rail network, Fisher County became an important transportation hub in the region.

In the 20th century, Fisher County faced some setbacks, including the effects of the Great Depression and a decline in population due to the mechanization of farming. However, the discovery of oil and gas reserves in the area in the 1940s provided a boost to the local economy. Today, Fisher County continues to rely on agriculture, oil and gas, and small businesses as its main economic drivers, while also preserving its historical heritage through museums and cultural events.

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

  • 1870: Fisher County was established on February 1, 1876, and named after Samuel Rhoads Fisher, a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence.
  • 1880s: The first settlement in the area was established near the Clear Fork of the Brazos River.
  • 1890s: The county experienced a population boom with the arrival of the Texas Central Railroad.
  • 1911: The town of Roby was designated as the county seat of Fisher County.
  • 1930s: Fisher County, like the rest of the country, was greatly affected by the Great Depression.
  • 1940s: The discovery of oil and gas in the county led to economic growth and increased population.
  • 1970s: The county faced economic challenges due to declining oil prices.
  • 2000s: Fisher County continued to be primarily agricultural, with farming and ranching as the main economic activities.