Fort Richardson State Historic Park
Jurisdiction:
State Antiquities Landmarks (SALs) are designated by the Texas Historical Commission (THC) and receive legal protection under the Antiquities Code of Texas (the Code). The Code defines all cultural resources on non-federal public lands in the State of Texas as eligible to be designated as SALs. Historic buildings and other aboveground historic resources must be listed in the National Register of Historic Places before they can be designated as SALs, but archeological sites do not have the same prerequisite.
SAL designation does not mean that sites or buildings cannot be altered or destroyed. The land-owning agency must consult with the THC about such proposed actions through the permit process, and the THC will determine whether the work will be allowed.
Buildings designated as SALs are listed in the Texas Historic Sites Atlas. However, information about designated archeological sites is not available to the general public to protect the sites from vandalism and destruction.
The Johnson Space Center, located in Houston, played a crucial role in the development of the U.S. space program. It was here that NASA trained its astronauts and mission control teams, and it continues to be an important center for space research and exploration today.
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.
Jack County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history 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.