Historical Marker

W. D. and Essie Gafford House

Historical marker location:
361 S. Caddo St., Lipan, Texas
( 1 mile south of Lipan on FM 1189)
Marker installed: 2001
Marker size: 16" x 12"

Constructed about 1916 for the family of William Doyle and Essie (Vandergriff) Gafford, this house is a good example of Craftsman bungalow design, popular in American architecture in the early 1900s. The Gaffords owned the general store in the Lipan community from 1911 until about 1929, in addition to farming and ranching enterprises on their Hood County property. W. D. Gafford (1894-1961) later operated city produce in Mineral Wells and established the local livestock auction. This historic farmhouse remained in the Gafford family throughout the 20th century. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 2001

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.

Craftsman (architectural style) houses residential buildings business women
The first domed stadium in the world, the Astrodome, was built in Houston in 1965 and hosted numerous sporting events and concerts over the years.
Texas random facts
Hood County, located in the state of Texas, has a rich and diverse history spanning centuries. The area was initially inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Comanche and Lipan Apache. European settlement began in the 1850s when the Texas legislature established Hood County in 1866, named after Confederate General John Bell Hood.

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.

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.