Fort Smith-Santa Fe Trail
Historical marker location:What came to be known as the Fort Smith - Santa Fe Trail was first blazed in 1840 by Josiah Gregg, a trader seeking a route to Santa Fe along the south side of the Canadian River. In 1849, Gregg's route was closely followed by a military escort led by Capt. Randolph B. Marcy (1812-1857). Marcy's group traveled from Fort Smith, Arkansas to Santa Fe with about 500 pioneers heading for California. The party entered Oldham County on June 13th, and on June 14th ascended to the Llano Estacado near this site. Reaching the top, Marcy found the plains "as boundless...and trackless as the ocean...a desolate waste of uninhabited solitude." Eighty-five days after leaving Fort Smith, the party reached Santa Fe. After passing the plains, Marcy remarked, "I have never passed a country where wagons could move along with as much ease and facility, without expenditure of any labor in making a road, as upon this route." Marcy advocated the trail as a prospective route for a transcontinental railroad, which was built after the Civil War. Later, as the country entered the automobile age and the interstate highway system was developed, U.S. Highway 66 (Route 66) and Interstate 40 were laid close to the trail. (1991)
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 was once an independent country: After winning its independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas became its own country, known as the Republic of Texas. It existed as an independent nation for nine years before being annexed by the United States in 1845.
In 1876, the Texas Panhandle Land Company purchased a large tract of land in present-day Oldham County, sparking a period of rapid settlement. By the late 1880s, the town of Tascosa had become the county seat, playing a pivotal role in the development of Oldham County. Tascosa served as a major supply hub for nearby cattle ranches and became a notorious haven for outlaws and pioneers.
However, the town's prominence was short-lived. In 1898, a raging fire destroyed much of Tascosa, causing many residents to relocate to the newly established town of Vega. Vega quickly emerged as the primary community in the county, and in 1915, it officially became the county seat.
Throughout the 20th century, Oldham County experienced growth and development in various sectors. Agriculture, especially cattle ranching, remained a vital industry, while oil and gas exploration also became significant contributors to the local economy. In recent decades, the county has embraced renewable energy, with wind farms playing a growing role in its energy production.
Today, Oldham County is a close-knit community known for its western heritage and beautiful landscapes. It continues to thrive economically while preserving its historical roots, making it an attractive destination for visitors and residents alike.
Oldham County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Oldham County, Texas.
- 1876 - Oldham County is first established.
- 1882 - The county's first post office, Tascosa, is established.
- 1883 - The county seat is moved from Tascosa to Vega.
- 1888 - The Santa Fe Railroad is extended to Oldham County.
- 1890 - The population of Oldham County reaches 1,119.
- 1915 - A fire destroys most of Vega, causing residents to rebuild the town.
- 1926 - Route 66 is designated and passes through Vega, bringing increased traffic to the area.
- 1930 - The population of Oldham County reaches its peak at 4,051.
- 1957 - The town of Adrian is incorporated within the county.
- 2007 - Oldham County celebrates its 125th anniversary.