First Site of City of Sherman
Historical marker location:When Grayson County was created on March 17, 1846, by the first Legislature of the State of Texas, the act named the county seat in honor of Sidney Sherman (1805-73), an heroic leader at the Battle of San Jacinto and in the affairs of the Republic of Texas.
Commissioners to select possible courthouse sites within 3 miles of center of the county were Micajah Davis, George C. Dugan, Richard McIntire, James Shannon, and James G. Thompson. This site on the old Cherokee Trail and the road to important river crossing at Preston Bend won approval of the voters. Townsite lots were auctioned late in the year 1846.
Chief Justice James G. Thompson supervised building of courthouse under a contract awarded in Jan. 1847 to M. L. Webster. Completion of the structure called for special celebration in a Fourth of July picnic with barbeque, a barrel of whiskey, music, and dancing.
Water and wood for public use were scarce at this site, called "a bald prairie". State Representative James B. Shannon (one of the original county seat commissioners) secured new legislation; he and Samuel Blagg, his business partner, on Nov. 23, 1848, deeded from their holdings to the county commissioners an 80-acre Sherman townsite 5 miles to the east.
Incise on back: Sponsored by the Grayson County Historical survey committee and erected by the Sherman city council as a memorial to the pioneers of this area
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.
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.
European settlement in Gray County began in the late 19th century, driven by the expansion of railroads and the cattle industry. The area became a popular destination for cattle ranchers, with the establishment of large ranches and the construction of stockyards and rail lines. The growth of the cattle industry played a significant role in shaping the county's early economy and attracting settlers to the region.
In 1876, Gray County was officially organized and named after Peter W. Gray, a prominent Texas lawyer and judge. The county seat, Pampa, was established in 1892 and experienced rapid growth due to the discovery of oil in the early 20th century. The oil boom created a surge in population and economic activity, bringing prosperity to the region.
Throughout the 20th century, Gray County continued to thrive due to its diverse economy, including agriculture, oil and gas, and manufacturing industries. The area's agricultural sector remained strong, with crops like wheat, sorghum, and cotton being cultivated. Additionally, manufacturing companies set up operations in the county, further contributing to its economic stability.
Today, Gray County is a thriving community with a mix of rural and urban areas. It continues to be a center for agriculture, oil and gas production, and manufacturing. The county's rich history is celebrated through various cultural events and museums, providing visitors with a glimpse into the area's past.
Gray County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Gray County, Texas.
- 1876: Gray County was officially organized and named after Peter W. Gray, a Texas lawyer.
- 1887: The first post office in Gray County was established.
- 1889: The town of Pampa was founded and became the county seat of Gray County.
- 1902: The first railroad, Southern Kansas Railway, reached Pampa, leading to significant growth and development.
- 1924: A significant oil discovery, the White Deer Oil Field, sparked an oil boom in Gray County.
- 1934: The county experienced severe damage and loss of life due to a devastating tornado.
- 1952: The Pantex Ordnance Plant, a major nuclear weapons assembly and disassembly facility, was established in Gray County.
- 1965: Lake McClellan, a reservoir on the Red River, was completed and became a popular recreational area.
- 1995: The historic Gray County Courthouse, built in 1929, was restored and designated as a Texas Historic Landmark.