Historical Marker

Early History of Kimble County

Historical marker location:
501 Main St., Junction, Texas
( Courthouse grounds (corner of Main and 6th))
Marker installed: 1968
Marker size: 27" x 42"

CREATED IN 1858 OUT OF BEXAR COUNTY, KIMBLE COUNTY WAS ATTACHED TEMPORARILY TO GILLESPIE COUNTY FOR JUDICIAL PURPOSES. IT WAS NAMED FOR LT. GEORGE C. KIMBLE, SLAIN MARCH 6, 1836, IN THE SIEGE OF THE ALAMO.

THE COUNTY WAS ORGANIZED IN 1876, AND THE FIRST REGULAR TERM OF DISTRICT COURT WAS HELD, SPRING 1877, UNDER A LIVE OAK TREE 1-3/4 MILES NORTH OF HERE. JUDGE W. A.BLACKBURN PRESIDED, AIDED BY TEXAS RANGERS.

THE FIRST COUNTY OFFICIALS, ELECTED FEBRUARY 15,1876, WERE WILL POTTER, JUDGE; FRANK LATTA, SHERIFF AND TAX COLLECTOR; E. K. KOUNTZ, CLERK; N. Q. PATTERSON, TREASURER; M. J.DENMAN, SURVEYOR; AND WILLIAM GRAHAM, ATTORNEY.

THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WERE JAMES R. STEFFEY OF PRECINCT 3; AND A. VANCOURT OF PRECINCT 4.

THE FIRST COURTHOUSE, A FRAME BUILDING ERECTED IN 1878, WAS DESTROYED, WITH ALL THE COUNTY RECORDS, BY FIRE ON APRIL 22, 1884. COMMISSIONERS COURT PASSED AN ORDER ON MAY 13,1884, TO REPLACE THE OLD BUILDING WITH A NEW, TWO-STORY STONE STRUCTURE. ON JUNE 2,1888, THIS ALSO WAS PARTIALLY DESTROYED BY FIRE, AND ON APRIL 11,1889, IT WAS ORDERED REPAIRED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF B. A. DAVEY. THIS BUILDING STOOD UNTIL REPLACED BY THE PRESENT COURTHOUSE IN 1929.

(1968)

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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The discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum industry.
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Kimble County, Texas has a rich history that dates back to its early settlement by Native American tribes. The Lipan Apache tribe was one of the prominent groups in the region, using the area as a hunting ground for centuries. In the 1800s, European settlers began to establish ranches in the county, introducing cattle and agricultural practices to the area.

The county was officially organized in 1876 and named after George C. Kimble, a famous Texan who fought in the Texas Revolution. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Kimble County experienced a period of growth and development. Railroads were built, connecting the county to other parts of Texas, which facilitated the transportation of goods and people.

The discovery of silver and lead in the county drew even more people to the area, resulting in the establishment of several mining communities. For a time, the county was a hub of mining activity, greatly contributing to its economic prosperity. However, as the mining industry declined in the early 20th century, the county shifted its focus to agriculture and ranching.

Today, Kimble County continues to embrace its rural character and agricultural heritage. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, including the beautiful South Llano River State Park. The county's economy is primarily driven by agriculture, including livestock, hunting, and pecan farming. With its combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and thriving rural lifestyle, Kimble County remains a charming part of Texas.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Kimble County, Texas.

  • 1850: Kimble County is created from parts of Bexar, Gillespie, and Mason counties.
  • 1869: The town of Kimbleville is established as the county seat.
  • 1873: The name of Kimbleville is changed to Junction City.
  • 1882: The town is officially incorporated as Junction City.
  • 1894: The name of Junction City is changed to Junction.
  • 1901: The Kansas City, Mexico and Orient Railway reaches Junction, leading to an increase in population and economic growth.
  • 1927: A devastating flood hits Junction, causing significant damage to the town.
  • 1949: The county seat is moved from Junction to its current location in Junction City.
  • 2001: The Kimble County Historical Museum opens in Junction to preserve the county's history.