Historical Markers in
Kleberg County, Texas

1766 Exploration of Diego Ortiz Parrilla Approximate Route of U.S. Army March to the Rio Grande, 1846 Camp Kingsville, U.S.A. Camp San Fernando Chamberlain Cemetery Civil War Raid from Camp Boveda Dawson Richard Murchison Englishmen in South Texas, 1568 First Baptist Church of Kingsville First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) First Presbyterian Church of Kingsville First Producing Gas Well in Kleberg County First United Methodist Church of Kingsville Henrietta M. King High School Historic Cattle Dipping Vat Indian Burial Ground (Dietz Archeological Site) King Ranch King Ranch, C.S.A. King Star Baptist Church Kingsville Cotton Mill Kingsville Railroad Depot Kleberg County Mexican Activities at Santa Gertrudis in the 1830's Near Site of Hide and Tallow Plant ( King Ranch, 1866-69) Presbyterian Pan American School Riviera Cemetery Riviera United Methodist Church Robert J. Kleberg Public Library Santa Gertrudis, Headquarters of the King Ranch St. Paul Lutheran Church Taylor Camp Site, 1846 Taylor, Zachary, Campsite Texas A&M University-Kingsville The King Ranch U.S. Naval Auxiliary Air Station - Kingsville Uriah Lott
The state flower of Texas is the bluebonnet. The flower blooms in the spring and is a common sight along the highways and in fields throughout the state.
Texas random facts
Kleberg County, located in southern Texas, has a rich and diverse history that traces back to its settlement by Native American tribes. The area was primarily inhabited by the Karankawa tribe, known for their hunting and fishing skills. European influence began in the 18th century when Spanish explorers arrived in the area.

The county's namesake, Robert Justus Kleberg, played a significant role in its development. Kleberg, a German immigrant, moved to Texas in the 1830s and became involved in politics and land acquisition. In the late 19th century, he purchased a large tract of land in the area, which eventually became the basis for the founding of Kleberg County.

The county witnessed significant growth and development in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, due in part to the arrival of the railroad. The St. Louis, Brownsville, and Mexico Railway played a crucial role in connecting Kleberg County to the rest of Texas and facilitating economic growth through the transportation of goods and people.

Another major contributor to the county's history is the King Ranch, one of the largest ranches in the United States. Established in the 1850s by Richard King and Captain Mifflin Kenedy, the King Ranch played a vital role in Kleberg County's economy and development. Today, it remains an integral part of the county and a symbol of its rich ranching heritage.

In recent years, Kleberg County has seen further growth, particularly in the field of oil and gas production. The county's natural resources have led to the establishment of various industries, providing employment opportunities and contributing to its overall economic prosperity. With a blend of historical significance and modern growth, Kleberg County continues to evolve and thrive while honoring its past.

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

  • 1854 - Kleberg County was established from territory previously part of Nueces County.
  • 1858 - Captain Richard King and Gideon K. Lewis established the King and Lewis Ranch along the Santa Gertrudis Creek.
  • 1875 - King acquired the entirety of Lewis' interest in the ranch.
  • 1903 - A post office named Kleberg was established.
  • 1913 - Kleberg County was officially organized, and the town of Kleberg became the county seat.
  • 1918 - The county seat was moved to the newly formed town of Kingsville.
  • 1925 - The Texas Legislature formed the Kleberg County Water Control and Improvement District No. 1 to oversee irrigation and drainage in the area.
  • 1933 - The Naval Air Station Kingsville was established.
  • 1940 - Kenedy County was formed from parts of Kleberg County.
  • 1954 - Hurricane Alice struck Kleberg County, causing significant damage.
  • 1980s - The King Ranch remained a significant economic and cultural influence in the county.