Historical Marker

Route of Jones & Plummer Trail

Historical marker location:
SH 15 and SH 23 junction, Booker, Texas
( intersection of SH 15 and SH 23, Booker)
Marker installed: 1968
Marker size: 18" x 28"

Established about 1874, when used by the freighting firm of Ed Jones and Joe Plummer to haul tons of buffalo hides from their general store in Lipscomb County to Dodge City, Kansas.

Also, in its early days, this trail carried crucial supplies to Generals Nelson Miles and Philip Sheridan during their famous 1874 Indian campaign.

Materials for building Fort Elliott, at Mobeetie, also came over the trail. The fort then became southern terminus for the route; Dodge City, northern. In its later years (until 1885), it became a cattle trail.

(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.

roads cattle
The cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Texas random facts
Lipscomb County, located in the northernmost part of Texas, has a rich history that reflects the struggles and successes of early settlers in the area. The county was officially established in 1887 and was named after A.S. Lipscomb, a judge and legislator in the Republic of Texas. Prior to its establishment, the land was mainly inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Kiowa, Comanche, and Cheyenne.

The county's early settlers faced numerous challenges, including harsh weather conditions, limited resources, and conflicts with Native American tribes. Many early pioneers were drawn to the area for its fertile soil and opportunities for cattle ranching. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s brought further growth and development to the county.

During the early 20th century, Lipscomb County experienced a boom in agriculture, with cotton and wheat becoming the primary crops. The discovery of oil in the area in the 1920s brought a new wave of prosperity and economic growth. The county saw an increase in population and the establishment of new businesses.

Today, Lipscomb County remains largely rural, with agriculture and oil production continuing to be significant industries. The county's rich history is celebrated through various historical sites and museums, which preserve the stories and heritage of the early settlers who shaped the area.

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

  • 1876 - Lipscomb County was established on August 21, becoming the last of the 254 counties in Texas.
  • 1887 - The town of Lipscomb, which would later become the county seat, was founded.
  • 1902 - The Northeast Texas Panhandle was opened up for settlement, leading to an influx of farmers and ranchers into Lipscomb County.
  • 1907 - The Chicago, Rock Island and Gulf Railway established a line through Lipscomb County, boosting transportation and economic development in the area.
  • 1911 - Lipscomb County's first courthouse was built in Lipscomb.
  • 1920s - The oil boom hit the Lipscomb County area, bringing prosperity and economic growth.
  • 1926 - The town of Lipscomb was incorporated.
  • 1940s - The oil industry continued to thrive, and agriculture remained a significant part of the county's economy.
  • 1969 - The Lipscomb County Courthouse, which served as the county seat, was destroyed in a fire.
  • 1970 - The current courthouse in Lipscomb was built, serving as the county seat.