Lees-Bryan House
This Eastlake style house was built in 1890 for Granbury Merchant J.C. Lees, a native of Canada. The home was sold to S.L. Bowden in 1895. Bowden's daughter Maude lived here after her marriage to Hardy H. Bryan in 1903. The corner porch entry and corner tower with fish-scale shingles and pyramidal roof are dominant features of the Lees-Bryan house, which remained in the Bryan family for nearly 70 years.
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1985
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.
The county quickly grew as settlers arrived, and Granbury, the county seat, was founded in 1867. Throughout the late 1800s, Hood County experienced significant developments in infrastructure, including the construction of roads, bridges, and the arrival of the railroad. These advancements facilitated trade and brought newfound prosperity to the area.
The late 19th century also witnessed the impact of the Civil War and Reconstruction era on Hood County. Former slaves were granted freedoms, and the county's demographics started to shift. The farming and ranching industries flourished, with cattle becoming a primary economic driver.
In the 20th century, Hood County continued to grow and adapt. With the advent of the automobile, transportation improved and helped connect the county with surrounding areas. The county's economy diversified, incorporating industries such as manufacturing, tourism, and healthcare. Today, Hood County is known for its natural beauty, historic downtown areas, and vibrant community, attracting tourists and new residents alike.
Hood County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Hood County, Texas.
- 1856 - Hood County is established on January 25.
- 1860s - The community of Hood County is primarily settled by Anglo-Americans.
- 1867 - The town of Granbury is founded and becomes the county seat.
- 1875 - The city of Granbury is incorporated.
- 1885 - The Texas Central Railroad reaches Granbury.
- 1890s - Hood County experiences an oil boom, leading to increased population and economic growth.
- 1921 - The Hood County Courthouse is built.
- 1930s - The Great Depression impacts Hood County, causing financial hardship for many residents.
- 1947 - Lake Granbury is created by the construction of De Cordova Bend Dam.
- 1970 - The Hood County Historical Museum is established.
- 1990s - Hood County sees significant population growth due to its proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.