Historical Marker

Roberts House

Historical marker location:
915 S. Crockett St., Sherman, Texas
( 915 S. Crockett St. at Spring St.)
Marker installed: 1993
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Connecticut native Charles Nathan Roberts (1836-1920) moved to Arkansas prior to the Civil War. He served as a captain in the Confederate Army, and after the war he married Emma Royston. By 1876 they had moved to Sherman, where Roberts established a retail hardware business, purchased this property, and built a small cottage for his family.

As Roberts' business prospered and expanded into the wholesale market, he became active in civic affairs, serving on the local school board and the Austin College board of trustees. Both he and Emma were active lay leaders in Sherman's first Presbyterian church. In 1896 they hired the architectural firm of Moad and Elliott to design a new home to replace their cottage on this site.

Completed in 1897 for less than $9,000, the house is a fine example of a Queen Anne-Eastlake style residence. It exhibits hallmark features of the style, including asymmetrical massing, liberal use of milled wood details, shingled gable ends, roof cresting and finials, and varied colors and contrasting finishes. Following Emma Roberts' death in 1937, the house was inherited by the couple's son, Charles Stanly Roberts (1878-1972). It remained in his family until 1987.

Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1993

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.

houses residential buildings Queen Anne (architectural style) business Eastlake
The Battle of San Jacinto fought on April 21, 1836, was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution, and led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the conflict.
Texas random facts
Gray County, located in the Texas Panhandle, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The earliest known inhabitants of the area were the Plains Indians, including the Comanche and Kiowa tribes, who roamed the grasslands and utilized the region's abundant wildlife for sustenance.

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.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history 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.