Bucareli
Historical marker location:In this vicinity, at Paso Tomas on the Trinity, was the Spanish town Nuestra Senora del Pilar De.
Bucareli
(1774-1779)
Indian troubles had caused Spain to move Louisiana colonists to Bexar (San Antonio). These people, however, pled to return to East Texas, and secured the consent of Viceroy Antonio Maria Bucarelo. Led by Gil Ybarbo (1729-1809), they built at the Trinity crossing a church, plaza, and wooden houses, and grew to a town of 345 people. But ill luck with crops, a few Comanche raids, and river floods sent the settlers farther east. Again led by Ybarbo, they rebuilt the old town of Nacogdoches, 1779
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 has been a major oil-producing state for over a century. The first big oil discovery in Texas was the Spindletop field near Beaumont in 1901, which set off a massive oil boom that transformed the state's economy and made Texas one of the wealthiest states in the country.
In 1821, Texas received independence from Spain, and the area that encompasses Madison County became a part of the Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas. In 1836, after the Texan Revolution, Texas gained its independence from Mexico and Madison County was created as a separate entity in 1853. It was named after the fourth U.S. President, James Madison, and was primarily established as a farming community due to its fertile soil and abundance of water sources.
During the Civil War era, Madison County, like much of Texas, supported the Confederate States of America. Many of the residents enlisted in the Confederate Army, and the area experienced its fair share of conflict and devastation. Following the war, the county slowly rebuilt its economy, relying on agriculture and ranching as key industries.
Throughout the 20th century, Madison County continued to thrive agriculturally. Cotton became a major crop, and the county became known for its production and processing. The discovery of oil and gas fields further bolstered the economy, providing a new source of wealth and employment opportunities. Today, Madison County is a vibrant community that celebrates its rich history while embracing economic diversification and growth.
Madison County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Madison County, Texas.
- 1837 - Madison County is established as a county in the Republic of Texas
- Mid-1800s - Pioneers settle in the area, primarily of Anglo-American descent
- 1853 - The first courthouse is built in the county seat of Madisonville
- Late 1800s - The county experiences population growth with the arrival of railroad lines
- 1861-1865 - Madison County residents participate in the American Civil War
- Late 1800s to early 1900s - Agriculture, including cotton, becomes a major industry in the county
- 1911 - The discovery of oil leads to the development of the oil industry in the county
- 20th century - Madisonville becomes an important center for trade and commerce in the region
- Present - Madison County remains a rural area with a diverse economy including agriculture, oil, and tourism