Historical Marker

Soda Springs

Historical marker location:
Soda Springs Rd. off FM 113 W of Weatherford, Soda Springs, Texas
( From Weatherford, take US 80 west about 13.5 miles at exit for FM 113, get onto across road and continue west. Just past the Brazos River Bridge, turn north on Soda Springs Road, drive about 1.8 miles to marker.)
Marker installed: 1990
Marker size: 18" x 28"

Early settlers were attracted to this area of Parker County by the abundant water supply available from the Brazos River and Soda Springs. A number of farming and ranching families established homes here, and a Baptist congregation was soon organized by the Reverend George W. Slaughter.

A log church was erected in the 1850s and served the congregation until 1895, when it was replaced by a new frame structure. A one-room school served the community until 1945. The Soda Springs Cemetery, established in the 1850s, contains the graves of many area pioneers.

(1990)

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.

cities and towns gravesites settlements water topics
The cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Texas random facts
Parker County, TX has a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century. The area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa and Comanche, before the arrival of European settlers. In the early 1850s, Texas became embroiled in conflicts with the Native American tribes, leading to the establishment of Fort Parker in what is now present-day Parker County. This fort served as protection for early settlers from Native American attacks.

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.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped 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.