Historical Marker

Kendall County Courthouse

Historical marker location:
Boerne, Texas
( San Antonio and Watts Streets, east of Main Street, Boerne)
Marker installed: 1970
Marker size: 18" x 28"

First and only courthouse in county. Erected 1869-1870, seven years after county organization. Many locally prominent men were associated with the structure. The first county judge, Joseph Graham, was appointed U.S. Consul to Argentina. The first sheriff, Capt. John Sansom, was a member of the U.S. Army, a Texas Ranger and Indian fighter. S. B. Patton, former Alabama legislator, was elected second county judge. Early records reveal cases for horse theft, cattle rustling, illegal sale of liquor, assault. An addition was built in 1909, and structure was remodeled, 1954.

Recorded Texas Historic Landmark -- 1970

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.

law courthouses buildings
The Texas Rangers, a famous law enforcement agency, were first organized in 1835 to protect settlers from Native American attacks.
Texas random facts
Kendall County, Texas, located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1862. Named after George Wilkins Kendall, a journalist and sheep rancher, the county was initially settled by German immigrants who were drawn to the area for its fertile land and abundant water sources.

The early settlers of Kendall County were primarily farmers and ranchers, taking advantage of the region's favorable climate and ample natural resources. They developed a thriving agricultural industry, cultivating crops such as cotton, corn, and wheat, as well as raising livestock such as cattle and sheep. The county's first city, Boerne, was founded in 1852 and quickly became a hub of commerce and trade.

In the late 1800s, Kendall County experienced a period of growth and prosperity, with the arrival of the railroad in 1887 spurring further development. The railroad brought new opportunities for transportation and trade, connecting Kendall County to larger cities and markets. This led to an expansion of industries such as ranching, farming, and mining, as well as the establishment of new businesses and services.

Over the years, Kendall County has preserved its historical heritage through the preservation of historic buildings and landmarks. Many historic sites, such as the Kendall County Courthouse and the Agricultural Heritage Museum, offer visitors a glimpse into the county's past. Today, Kendall County continues to thrive as a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its scenic beauty, diverse outdoor activities, and a rich cultural heritage.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Kendall County, Texas.

  • 1856: Kendall County established from parts of Blanco, Comal, and Kerr counties.
  • 1857: The county seat is designated as Boerne.
  • 1861-1865: Kendall County residents serve in the Civil War.
  • 1870: First public school is established in Boerne.
  • 1872: The Boerne Village Band, the oldest continuously active German band in the world, is formed.
  • 1881: The San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway extends to Boerne.
  • 1890: Electric lights are installed in Boerne.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression affects the county's agriculture-dependent economy.
  • 1987: The Cibolo Nature Center is established in Boerne.
  • 2007: Kendall County celebrates its sesquicentennial anniversary.