The John H. Pickens Davis House
Historical marker location:Built by son of Kinchen Davis, who escaped death by drawing a white bean in famous ordeal of Texans in 1842 Mexican conflict.
As a "Jaybird" leader, builder J. H. Davis (1851-1927), prevented lynchings in Jaybird-Woodpecker War of the 1880s. He was owner of much land and livestock.
This house, built about 1880, is of cypress and white pine, with many fine details unusual in its era. It was given in 1947 to Polly Ryon Memorial Hospital, named for Davis' mother-in-law.
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1962
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 has been a major oil-producing state for over a century. The first big oil discovery in Texas was the Spindletop field near Beaumont in 1901, which set off a massive oil boom that transformed the state's economy and made Texas one of the wealthiest states in the country.
One pivotal event in the county's history was the arrival of sugar cane cultivation in the 1840s. Immigrants from Germany and other European countries brought their expertise in sugar production and established large sugar plantations in Fort Bend County. The growth of the sugar industry substantially impacted the county's economy and led to the arrival of enslaved African Americans, who provided labor on these plantations.
During the American Civil War, Fort Bend County remained primarily loyal to the Confederate cause. Many residents joined Confederate units and fought in several battles, such as the Battle of Palmito Ranch and the Battle of Pleasant Hill. Following the war, the county experienced a period of reconstruction and worked towards diversifying its agricultural production.
The 20th century brought further transformations, with the discovery of oil and gas in the county. The newfound oil industry spurred economic growth and development, as well as population growth. Fort Bend County also played a vital role in the civil rights movement, with several significant milestones, including the integration of public schools in 1963. Today, Fort Bend County is a thriving and diverse community, known for its rich history, strong economy, and cultural diversity.
Fort Bend County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Fort Bend County, Texas.
- 1822: Stephen F. Austin grants land to his secretary, Samuel M. Williams, who establishes the Fort Bend settlement near present-day Richmond, Texas
- 1824: Mexico establishes Fort Bend County as part of Austin's Colony
- 1837: Fort Bend becomes an official county in the Republic of Texas
- 1841: The new county courthouse is built in Richmond
- 1856: Sugar production becomes a major industry in Fort Bend County
- 1861: Fort Bend County residents support secession and the Confederacy during the Civil War
- 1900: The first rail line, known as the Galveston, Harrisburg and San Antonio Railway, arrives in Fort Bend County
- 1920: The discovery of oil leads to an economic boom in the county
- 1941: Sugar Land Regional Airport opens to support military training during World War II
- 1959: The town of Stafford is incorporated
- 1990: Fort Bend County's population exceeds 200,000