Historical Marker

Roberts

Historical marker location:
Quinlan, Texas
( 1 mi. S of Quinlan on SH 34 ROW at intersection with SH 34 Business)
Marker installed: 1997
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In 1882 the Houston and Texas Central Railroad bought 100 acres of land from Texas Governor Oran Roberts. As the terminus of the company's northeastern line, Roberts quickly attracted business people. The town boasted a school for white students and another for black students, a post office with daily mail service, a doctor, a blacksmith, a carpenter, dry goods and grocers, general stores, and saloons.

Roberts gained a reputation as a boomtown, full of opportunity and vice. In 1892 the bankrupt Houston and Texas Central sold its northeastern line to New Yorker Hetty Green who reorganized the railroad as the Texas Midland under the leadership of her son Edward "Ned" Green. A land dispute between the two railroad companies led Ned Green to purchase land just north of Roberts, establishing a depot there and platting the new town of Quinlan.

Merchants and business people soon moved their facilities to Quinlan, followed by the First Missionary Baptist Church of Roberts and others wishing to escape Roberts' lawlessness. The Quinlan Depot and post office were dedicated on October 17, 1894; the Roberts Depot and Telegraph Office were promptly dismantled by railroad agents. A fire of unknown origin destroyed Roberts in 1895. (1998)

Incise on back: Dedicated to Joe Wesley Renshaw and his love of south Hunt County history. Marker researched by Donna Smith

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.

railroad ghost towns
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
Texas random facts
Hunt County, Texas is located in the northeastern part of the state and has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by the Caddo Native American tribe, who resided in the region for centuries before European settlers arrived.

The first European settlers arrived in the early 1800s, attracted by the fertile land and proximity to the Trinity River. The county was officially established in 1846 and was named after Memucan Hunt, who played a significant role in the Republic of Texas. The county seat, Greenville, was named after Thomas J. Green, a prominent lawyer and politician.

In its early years, Hunt County thrived on agriculture, with cotton being the primary crop. The county's economy boomed with the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century, which facilitated transportation and boosted trade and commerce.

Over the years, Hunt County experienced growth and development, and the economy diversified. In the 20th century, industries such as manufacturing, retail, and healthcare emerged, contributing to the county's economic stability. The county also saw an increase in population, with Greenville becoming the largest city in the area.

Today, Hunt County is known for its vibrant community, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty. It continues to be a hub for agricultural production, while also offering residents and visitors a wide range of recreational activities, historical sites, and local attractions.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Hunt County, Texas.

  • 1839 - Hunt County is established on April 11, named after Memucan Hunt Jr., the first Republic of Texas Secretary of the Navy.
  • 1846 - Bonham is selected as the county seat.
  • 1850 - Hunt County's population reaches 1,914.
  • 1858 - Greenville becomes the new county seat.
  • 1861-1865 - Hunt County residents participate in the Civil War, with many serving in the Confederate military.
  • 1872 - The Texas and Pacific Railway arrives in Greenville, bringing economic growth to the area.
  • 1895 - A devastating fire destroys the Hunt County Courthouse in Greenville.
  • Early 1900s - Cotton and cottonseed oil continue as major industries in the county.
  • 1940s-1950s - Oil discoveries and production boom in Hunt County.
  • 1980s-present - Hunt County experiences continued economic growth, diversifying its industries and expanding its population.