Henry H. Campbell
Historical marker location:(1840-1911) A native of North Carolina, Henry Harrison Campbell arrived in Texas with his family in 1854. Following his service in the Confederate army, he worked as a cattle drover. In 1879, with four other investors, he founded the Matador Ranch at Ballard Springs (ten miles southeast).
Campbell's wife, Elizabeth Bundy, joined him at the ranch in 1880. Refusing to live underground in a dugout, she insisted on camping in a tent until lumber could be hauled in for a two-room house. She served as hostess and nurse at the ranch, and later was post-mistress at Matador.
In its first three years, the Matador Ranch holdings grew to include 40,000 head of cattle on 100,000 acres of land, with an additional 1.5 million acres of free range rights. In 1882 the ranch was bought by a Scottish syndicate, The Matador Land & Cattle Company, LTD. Campbell continued his association with the ranch, serving as ranch superintendent until 1890.
Henry H. Campbell led efforts to create Motley County in 1891. After serving two terms as county judge, he retired to concentrate on his ranch interests on Dutchman Creek. He died in Matador on May 23, 1911. (1964, 1988)
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.
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
In 1876, the Texas legislature officially established Motley County, naming it in honor of Junius William Mottley, a renowned jurist from Texas. The county's early economy relied heavily on ranching and agriculture, with cattle ranching being the dominant industry. The open plains and fertile soil made it ideal for grazing and farming, attracting more settlers and leading to the establishment of small rural communities throughout the county.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Motley County experienced periods of boom and bust. A significant event in the county's history was the discovery of oil in 1924, which brought a surge of economic activity and population growth to the area. Oil production became a major industry and played a pivotal role in driving the county's economy for several decades. However, as the oil fields began to decline, the county shifted its focus back to agriculture and ranching.
Today, Motley County remains primarily rural, with a small population and a strong agricultural sector. The county is known for its picturesque landscapes, including the iconic Caprock Canyons State Park which attracts tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. While the county has faced its fair share of challenges, its rich history and natural beauty continue to make it an important part of Texas heritage.
Motley County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Motley County, Texas.
- 1876 - Motley County was organized and named after Edward J. Motley, a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence.
- 1890s - Ranching became the main industry in the county.
- 1891 - The town of Matador was established as the county seat.
- 1909 - Construction of the Courthouse began in Matador.
- 1926 - The Matador Ranch, one of the largest and most famous ranches in Texas, was divided into smaller ranches.
- 1930s - The Great Depression brought hardships to the county, with many residents leaving in search of work.
- 1950s - Oil was discovered in the county, leading to an economic boom.
- 1960s - Motley County experienced a decline in population as agriculture became less profitable.
- 1990 - The population reached its lowest point in decades.
- 2000s - Wind energy development brought new economic opportunities to the county.
- Present - Motley County continues to be a rural community, with ranching, agriculture, and wind energy playing important roles in the local economy.