Historical Marker

Frio County

Historical marker location:
I-35 Business Loop, Pearsall, Texas
( I-35 Business Loop, west side, north side of Pearsall, south of Exit 104. Bronze seal reported missing Nov. 2018.)
Marker installed: 1936
Marker size: 1936 Texas Centennial highway marker (pink granite)

Lying in one of the first areas in Texas to be explored by the Spanish, in 1690, Frio County was created in 1858 and organized in 1871.

Frio City, laid out 1871, was the first county seat, but surrendered the title to Pearsall, on the International & Great Northern Railroad, in 1883. Old rock courthouse still stands in present Frio Town. The county has had four courthouses: two frame ones, one of rock, and one of brick.

In 1876 a Texas Ranger camp, under the noted Major John B. Jones, was set up on Elm Creek to protect settlers from Indian attacks. The legendary frontiersman W.A.A. "Big Foot" Wallace (1817-1899) spend his last years in Frio County.

(1968)

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 is known for its barbecue, and one of the most famous barbecue restaurants in the state is Kreuz Market in Lockhart. The restaurant has been in operation since 1900 and is still family-owned.
Texas random facts
Frio County, located in southwest Texas, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The region was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Coahuiltecans and Lipan Apaches, who relied on the area's abundant natural resources for survival.

The arrival of Spanish explorers in the 17th century brought significant changes to the region. Spanish missionaries established settlements and began introducing Christianity to the Native American tribes. One such settlement was the San Agustín de Laredo Presidio, which was founded in 1755 and served as a military outpost to protect Spanish interests in the area.

During the 19th century, Frio County experienced its major period of settlement. In 1858, the first Anglo-American families began to arrive, attracted by the fertile land and the potential for agriculture. The county was officially established in 1858 and was named after the Frio River, which runs through its western portion.

The discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought further development and prosperity to Frio County. Oil fields were established in the area, attracting workers and boosting the local economy. Today, Frio County is known for its oil and gas production, as well as its agricultural activities such as ranching and farming. The county continues to thrive, blending its rich history with modern industry and a strong sense of community.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Frio County, Texas.

  • 1858 - Frio County is established from portions of Atascosa, Bexar, Uvalde, and Webb counties.
  • 1868 - The first post office is established in Frio City.
  • 1878 - The county seat is moved from Frio City to Pearsall.
  • 1880 - The Southern Pacific Railroad is extended into Frio County, boosting economic growth.
  • 1900 - The population of Frio County reaches over 7,000 residents.
  • 1911 - A major flood causes significant damage to the county.
  • 1927 - Frio County suffers from another devastating flood.
  • 1934 - The Civilian Conservation Corps establishes Camp F-2 Company 1827 at Frio County Airport.
  • 1940s - The discovery of oil and gas leads to increased economic activity in the county.
  • 1990 - The population of Frio County exceeds 12,000 residents.
  • 2010 - Frio County celebrates its 150th anniversary.