Historical Marker

Tascosa

Historical marker location:
US 385, N of Vega on Boys Ranch, Vega, Texas
( N of Vega on US 385 about 24 mi., on Boys Ranch)
Marker installed: 1967
Marker size: 1936 Centennial - Grave Marker (gray granite)

Cowboy capital of the Texas Panhandle, 1877-1888. "Billy the Kid" and cowboys from many ranches added to its liveliness. Made famous by wild west fiction. Its name is a corruption of Atascoso (boggy) first given to nearby creek. County seat of Oldham County, 1881-1915

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.

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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.
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Located in the Panhandle region of Texas, Oldham County has a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century. The county was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Comanches and Kiowas. In the 1870s, ranchers began to settle in the area, attracted by the abundant grazing land.

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.

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.