Historical Marker

Murphy Ranch House

Marker installed: 2015
Marker size: RTHL medallion & plaque without post

San Patricio Chief Justice, Patrick Frances Murphy and wife, Elizabeth Mary Catherine, daughter of Empresario, James McGloin, puchased The Point at Echo in 1875. They built this Modest Greek Revival Story and a half frame house on their Nueces River's east bank ranch with imported cypress carted from Indianola by oxen.

Patrick sold the Echo property to Margaret Mary Healy-Murphy, widow of his brother, Attorney John Bernard Murphy, who died in 1884 while mayor of Corpus Christi. Margaret Mary built Saint Peter Claver's Church campus in San Antonio with private funds, including convent and free school for black children. She then founded the first order of nuns in Texas using the Murphy Ranch House for retreats and training. To sustain the Mission, she sold the Ranch before her death in 1907.

Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 2015

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.

architecture houses residential buildings
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
Live Oak County is located in the southern part of Texas and has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Before European settlement, the area was home to various Native American tribes, including the Coahuiltecan, Karankawa, and Lipan Apache tribes. These indigenous peoples relied on the region's abundant natural resources, including honey mesquite, live oak trees, and wildlife.

In the early 18th century, Spanish explorers began to venture into the area, searching for new territories to claim. It wasn't until the early 19th century when Anglo-American settlers arrived in the area. The Spanish government offered land grants to attract settlers, and many families moved to Live Oak County, establishing small ranches and farms. The region's fertile soil and mild climate made it ideal for agriculture, and cotton and cattle quickly became the mainstay of the local economy.

During the mid-19th century, Live Oak County witnessed significant growth and development. In 1856, the county was officially established, named after the live oak trees that were abundant in the area. By this time, more settlements had sprung up, and businesses flourished, including general stores, cotton gins, and blacksmith shops. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further boosted the county's economy, allowing for easier transportation of goods and access to markets.

The early 20th century brought challenges to Live Oak County, as the agricultural sector faced disruptions due to drought, the Great Depression, and changes in farming practices. However, the discovery of oil in the early 1940s brought a significant economic boom, transforming the county once again. Oil companies flocked to Live Oak County, bringing jobs and prosperity to the area. The oil industry continues to be a vital part of the county's economy to this day, alongside agriculture and other industries.

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

  • 1846 - Live Oak County is established as a separate county by the Texas legislature.
  • 1848 - The county is officially organized.
  • 1850s - The population begins to increase due to the establishment of ranching and farming operations.
  • 1881 - The San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway is completed, connecting the county to other parts of Texas.
  • 1890s - An oil boom occurs in the county, leading to increased economic activity and population growth.
  • 1920s - The oil industry experiences a decline, leading to a decrease in population and economic slowdown.
  • 1930s - The county is heavily affected by the Great Depression, with many residents facing unemployment and poverty.
  • 1940s - The end of World War II brings an economic boost to the county as industries begin to recover.
  • 1970s - The county experiences another oil boom, leading to increased oil production and economic growth.
  • Present - Live Oak County remains a primarily rural area, known for its agriculture, oil production, and outdoor recreational activities.