Historical Marker

Early Jackson County

Historical marker location:
Edna, Texas
( Courthouse grounds, 115 W. Main St., Edna)
Marker installed: 1968
Marker size: 18" x 28"

Organized, 1837; named for 7th president of U. S., Andrew Jackson.

Early hunting grounds of the cannibalistic Karankawa Indians, this region was crossed in 1528 by shipwrecked Spaniard Cabeza de Vaca. French explorer La Salle founded the first settlement,iIl-fated Fort St. Louis, in 1685. Its site is said by some authorities to be Dimmitt's Point (21 miles SW.).

Most of what is now Jackson County lay in Stephen F. Austin's land grant. The first town, "Santa Anna," was founded by six members of Austin's "Old 300" colonists in 1832. The town, later named "Texana," was the predecessor of Edna

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.

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Texas random facts
Jack County, Texas is located in North Central Texas and has a rich and colorful history. It was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Wichita and Comanche, before European settlers began to arrive in the early 19th century. The county was named after Patrick Jack, who served as a soldier in the Texas Revolution.

The first European-American settlers arrived in the area in the 1850s, drawn by the fertile land and abundant game. In 1856, the county was officially organized and the town of Jacksboro was established as the county seat. During this time, conflicts with Native American tribes were common, and several forts were constructed to protect the settlers, including Fort Richardson near Jacksboro.

The county played a significant role in the Civil War, with many residents joining Confederate forces. In 1862, a bloody battle known as the Battle of Dove Creek took place in Jack County, where Confederates clashed with a combination of Union troops and Native American allies.

After the war, Jack County experienced growth and development. Ranching became a primary economic activity, as the region was well-suited for cattle ranching. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, oil was discovered in the county, leading to a boom in the local economy.

Today, Jack County still maintains its agricultural heritage, with ranching and oil production remaining important industries. The county is also known for its rich historical sites, including Fort Richardson State Park, which preserves the history of the region's military past.

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

  • 1857 - Jack County is established by the Texas legislature.
  • 1858 - Fort Richardson is established near present-day Jacksboro.
  • 1864 - Battle of Dove Creek takes place between Confederate and Union forces in the county.
  • 1871 - Texas & Pacific Railroad reaches Jacksboro, boosting the local economy.
  • 1872 - Jacksboro is designated as the county seat.
  • 1883 - Chisholm Trail, used for cattle drives, passes through the county.
  • 1907 - Oil is discovered in Jack County, leading to a boom in the local economy.
  • 1919 - Jacksboro tornado causes significant damage and loss of life.
  • 1936 - Construction of Possum Kingdom Lake is completed.
  • 1950s - 1960s - The decline of the oil industry affects the county's economy.
  • 1990s - Present - Jack County focuses on diversifying its economy through tourism and agriculture.