State Antiquities Landmark

Lipscomb County Courthouse

1916-1958
Courthouse Square, Lipscomb Texas
Significance:
Courthouse

Jurisdiction:
County of Lipscomb

State Antiquities Landmarks (SALs) are designated by the Texas Historical Commission (THC) and receive legal protection under the Antiquities Code of Texas (the Code). The Code defines all cultural resources on non-federal public lands in the State of Texas as eligible to be designated as SALs. Historic buildings and other aboveground historic resources must be listed in the National Register of Historic Places before they can be designated as SALs, but archeological sites do not have the same prerequisite.

SAL designation does not mean that sites or buildings cannot be altered or destroyed. The land-owning agency must consult with the THC about such proposed actions through the permit process, and the THC will determine whether the work will be allowed.

Buildings designated as SALs are listed in the Texas Historic Sites Atlas. However, information about designated archeological sites is not available to the general public to protect the sites from vandalism and destruction.

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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 concise overview of the key events in 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.