First State Meeting of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas
Historical marker location:On April 20, 1892, thirteen members of the Daughters of the Lone Star Republic met in joint session with the Texas Veterans Association in Lampasas. Having been organized the previous November in Houston, the Daughters had been at work in the interim preparing a constitution and by-laws. Guy M. Bryan, vice president of the Texas Veterans Association, presided at the 1892 annual convention in the Lampasas County Courthouse. Mrs. Willie Ashe of Houston, representing her grandmother, Mrs. Anson Jones, President of the Daughters, addressed the gathering and eloquently stated the goals and objectives of the new organization.
Following the adjournment of the Texas Veterans' meeting on April 21, the Daughters of the Lone Star Republic reconvened at the Lampasas Methodist Church (2 blocks east). With Mrs. Anson Jones presiding, the members changed the name of the association to the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and adopted a constitution. The first state meeting of the DRT solidified the members' desire to organize and inaugurated a Texas institution dedicated to the preservation of the heritage of the Republic era
- 1821: The Mexican War of Independence concludes, and Mexico gains independence from Spain. Texas is a part of the newly formed Republic of Mexico.
- 1824: The Mexican government establishes the Constitution of 1824, which grants certain rights to the Mexican states, including Texas.
- 1826: A group of American settlers, known as the Fredonian Rebellion, attempt to establish an independent state in Texas. The rebellion is short-lived and quickly suppressed by Mexican authorities.
- 1830: The Mexican government, concerned about the growing number of American settlers in Texas, passes the Law of April 6, 1830, which imposes restrictions on further American immigration to Texas.
- 1835: Tensions between American settlers and the Mexican government escalate, leading to the Texas Revolution. The Texian rebels, led by figures such as Stephen F. Austin and Sam Houston, engage in battles against Mexican forces.
- 1836: On March 2, the Texian delegates at the Convention of 1836 declare independence from Mexico and establish the Republic of Texas. Sam Houston is elected as the first President of Texas. The Battle of the Alamo takes place in February-March, where a small Texian garrison defends the Alamo Mission against a large Mexican army. Despite their defeat, the battle becomes a symbol of Texian resistance.
- 1836-1838: The Republic of Texas faces a series of military conflicts with Mexico, including the Goliad Massacre and the Battle of San Jacinto. The decisive Texian victory at San Jacinto secures their independence and captures Mexican General Santa Anna, who signs the Treaties of Velasco recognizing Texas as an independent nation.
- 1836-1845: The Republic of Texas operates as an independent nation, establishing a constitution, government, and capital at various locations including Washington-on-the-Brazos, Harrisburg, and eventually, Houston. Efforts to join the United States face opposition due to fears of potential conflict with Mexico.
- 1845: Texas agrees to annexation and becomes the 28th state of the United States on December 29, 1845, following approval by the U.S. Congress. This leads to the Mexican-American War in 1846.
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.
Texas is home to the world's largest bat colony. The Bracken Bat Cave, near San Antonio, is home to millions of Mexican free-tailed bats.
In 1852, Lampasas County was officially established, named after the Lampasas River that runs through the area. The county quickly became a prominent agricultural region, with cotton being the primary crop. The arrival of the Texas and Land Company railroad in 1882 further stimulated the local economy, as it facilitated trade and transportation in the area.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Lampasas County also experienced economic growth due to the discovery of mineral resources. Manganese and zinc mining industries played a significant role in the county's development. Additionally, the city of Lampasas became a popular health resort destination, thanks to the therapeutic value of the local natural springs.
Throughout the years, Lampasas County has faced its fair share of challenges. The region went through difficult times during the Great Depression, with the decline of the agricultural industry. However, the county managed to bounce back and diversify its economy, embracing tourism and other industries. Today, Lampasas County remains a vibrant community with a blend of historical charm and modern development.
Lampasas County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Lampasas County, Texas.
- 1854 - Lampasas County is founded and named after the Lampasas River.
- 1872 - The town of Lampasas becomes the county seat.
- 1882 - The Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway is completed through the county.
- 1885 - The first oil well in central Texas is drilled in Lampasas County.
- 1922 - The Hancock Springs Hotel, a popular health resort, is built.
- 1949 - The Fort Hood military reservation is established, impacting the county's economy.
- 1960s - The construction of the Highland Lakes dams brings tourism and recreation to the area.
- 1990s - The county experiences population growth and increased development.