Historic Courthouse

Hardeman County Courthouse

Quanah, Texas

Built in 1908 in Classical Revival architectual style by architect R. H. Stuckey by contractor Tom Lovell & Sons, Denton.

3-story buff brick courthouse with rusticated limestone basement. Central octagonal cupola painted silver with iron roof cresting on hipped roof. Entrance porches feature Ionic columns and the pediment on the rear porch features a carved star.

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Current status: Active Courthouse

The Texas Historical Commission's (THC) nationally recognized and award-winning Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program (THCPP) has turned around the trend of disrepair and begun restoring these treasured historic landmarks. Texas has more historic courthouses than any other state. Today more than 240 courthouses still stand that are least 50 years old. About 80 were built before the turn of the 20th century. By the end of that century, most of these structures were significantly deteriorated due to inadequate maintenance, insensitive modifications or weather related damage. The Texas Historical Commission (THC) documented the condition of 50 of the state’s oldest courthouses in the late 1990s and determined that counties lacked the resources to preserve the buildings for future generations.

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Hardeman County, Texas has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the mid-19th century. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Kiowa, Comanche, and Tonkawa. However, the county was officially established in 1858 and named after Bailey Hardeman, a prominent Texas politician.

During the late 1800s, Hardeman County experienced significant growth and development. Settlers began to arrive in the area, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for farming and ranching. The town of Quanah emerged as the county seat and quickly became a hub of economic activity.

The county played a significant role in the Texas cattle industry. Ranchers established large cattle ranches, and the famous 6666 Ranch, owned by Samuel Burk Burnett, became one of the most renowned in the area. The cattle industry thrived until the late 1800s when severe droughts devastated the region. Many ranchers were forced to sell their land or move their herds elsewhere.

In the early 1900s, oil was discovered in nearby Wichita County, leading to an economic boom in Hardeman County. The town of Quanah became a major center for oil production, attracting oil companies and workers from all over the country. This oil boom brought prosperity to the county, and many businesses and infrastructure were developed during this time.

Throughout the 20th century, Hardeman County experienced ups and downs, with periods of economic growth and challenges. The agriculture industry, including ranching and cotton farming, has remained an important part of the county's economy. Today, Hardeman County is known for its rural charm, historic landmarks, and strong sense of community.

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

  • 1858 - Hardeman County is established by the Texas state legislature.
  • 1884 - Quanah is designated as the county seat.
  • Late 1800s - Cattle ranching becomes a major industry in the county.
  • 1918-1919 - The county experiences an oil boom.
  • 1924 - Hardeman County Airport is established.
  • Mid-1900s - Agriculture becomes the primary industry in the county, with cotton and wheat being major crops.
  • 1969 - Copper Breaks State Park is opened to the public.
  • 1974 - The county courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • Late 1900s to present - Oil and gas production continue to play a significant role in the county's economy.