Historical Marker

Las Calaveras Cemetery

Historical marker location:
FM 2508, Ben Bolt, Texas
( 4 mi. E on FM 2508)
Marker installed: 2002
Marker size: HTC marker

José María Valadez, born in the state of Tamaulipas, Mexico, purchased land in this area in 1864, moving here with his wife, Josefa Garcia Hinojosa. The family operated two ranches in the area, raising cattle and sheep, and cultivating corn and cotton. The ranch in this area was named La Laguna de las Calaveras for skeletal remains found on the site believed to be from members of an Indian tribe who faced a major flood in the area. The earliest marked grave in the cemetery is that of Daniel Valadez (d. 1878). The graveyard, used by generations of the Valadez family, is also used by the Ben Bolt community.

Historic Texas Cemetery - 2002

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.

gravesites
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
Jim Wells County is located in South Texas and was established in 1911. It was named after prominent political figure James B. Wells, who played a significant role in the development of the area. The county's history can be traced back to the early 18th century when it was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and Lipan Apache. Spanish explorers and missions were established in the area during the 18th century.

In the mid-19th century, settlers began to move into the region, attracted by its fertile soil and proximity to water sources. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, became the main industry in the area, and the county quickly grew as a result. The railroad arrived in the late 19th century, further boosting the local economy and facilitating transportation.

The county experienced a significant population increase in the early 20th century due to the discovery of oil nearby. Oil production became a major industry, attracting businesses and workers to the area. This led to the development of towns and infrastructure, contributing to the economic growth of Jim Wells County.

Over the years, Jim Wells County has faced challenges such as droughts, floods, and economic downturns, particularly in the agriculture and oil industries. However, the county has remained resilient and has diversified its economy to include other sectors such as healthcare, education, and retail. Today, Jim Wells County continues to be an important agricultural and industrial hub in South Texas, with a rich history and a promising future.

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

  • 1848: Jim Wells County is formed from parts of Nueces County and named after James B. Wells, a prominent political figure in the area.
  • 1904: The St. Louis, Brownsville and Mexico Railway is built through Jim Wells County, leading to increased agricultural development and population growth.
  • 1911: Alice becomes the county seat of Jim Wells County, replacing Orange Grove.
  • 1920s-1930s: The discovery of oil and gas in the county leads to an oil boom, spurring economic growth.
  • 1940s-1950s: Jim Wells County sees a decline in population and agricultural activity due to the effects of World War II and changes in farming practices.
  • 1988: Hurricane Gilbert hits Jim Wells County, causing significant damage and loss of life.
  • 1990s-present: Jim Wells County continues to be primarily agricultural, with a focus on farming and ranching.