Baker Community
Historical marker location:Baker Community
Settlement in this part of Parker County began in earnest in the 1850s and the county was formally established in 1855. Josiah and Nancy Catherine "Kate" Baker, their four children, Josiah's parents and Kate's mother came to this area in 1854. The community that grew up around their homestead came to be called Baker. A general store and cotton gin were early commercial ventures.
The Bakers donated land for the community school, which began in 1872 and was designated Baker School District No. 60 in 1884. It served the educational needs of children in the area until consolidating with Weatherford Schools in the 1950s. Josiah and Kate Baker also gave the land for Baker Baptist Church, organized as Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in 1854 by prominent pioneer Baptist minister Noah T. Byars.
Josiah Baker's mother, Elizabeth, died in 1854 and was buried in what became the Baker Cemetery. Hers is the first documented burial in the cemetery, which also is the resting place of Josiah's father, Martin (d. 1858), and his wife, Kate (d. 1895). A Civil War veteran, Josiah moved from the community in 1895 and was buried in Crystal Falls in nearby Stephens County upon his death in 1907.
As a pioneer community in this region of the state, Baker is a part of the rural heritage of Parker County and of Texas. It is a reminder of early settlement patterns as pioneers came to this area and made their homes.
(2002)
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.
The Alamo, a mission in San Antonio, is perhaps the most famous historical site in Texas. It was the site of a key battle during the Texas Revolution in 1836.
In 1855, Parker County was officially established and named after Fort Parker. The county quickly grew as more settlers flocked to the region attracted by fertile land and an abundance of water sources. The advent of the Texas and Pacific Railway in the late 19th century further spurred growth and development in the county.
Parker County played a significant role in the cattle industry during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The county's open prairies became an ideal location for cattle ranching, and the development of railroads allowed ranchers to transport their livestock to markets more efficiently. This led to prosperity and economic growth in the county, with many cattle ranches operating successfully.
Over the years, Parker County has seen its fair share of challenges and triumphs. It has weathered economic downturns, faced natural disasters like the devastating tornado outbreak in 1957, and experienced growth in population and urbanization. Today, Parker County continues to thrive as a vibrant community with a rich history, welcoming residents, and picturesque landscapes that highlight its enduring legacy as an important part of Texas' past and present.
Parker County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Parker County, Texas.
- 1855: Parker County officially established on December 12.
- 1856: Fort Worth becomes the county seat.
- 1872: Weatherford becomes the county seat.
- 1877: Santa Fe Railroad arrives in Weatherford.
- 1885: The first oil well is drilled in the county.
- 1919: Parker County experiences the deadliest tornado in Texas history, resulting in 114 fatalities.
- 1956: The first major shopping center, Town & Country Shopping Center, opens in Weatherford.
- 1974: Weatherford College is established.
- 1993: Lake Weatherford Dam fails, causing significant flooding in the area.
- 2010: Parker County celebrates its 155th anniversary.