Canadian River
Historical marker location:A travel route and dwelling site for over 12,000 years, the Canadian River supported stone and adobe Indian villages from the 12th to the 14th Centuries.
This waterway was also one of the first interior rivers of the U.S. known to early explorers. Coronado, coming from Mexico, crossed the Canadian in 1541 in his search for the famed city of Quivira. Juan de Onate, also seeking Quivira, saw the river in 1601. The Canadian traders Pierre and Paul Mallet followed it in 1741. Josiah Gregg, famous Missouri trader, took $25,000 worth of goods to Santa Fe along the river trails in 1839. Gold seekers bound for California were escorted along the trails in 1849 by Army Captain R.B. Marcy.
During its history, the river has borne many names. The origin of the word "Canadian" is disputed. A possible source is the Caddo word "Kanohatino", which means "Red River". Some think it was named by the French-Canadians who traveled it in the 1700s, while others believe the river is called "Canadian" because it rises in a "canyon" (from the Spanish word meaning "boxed-in"). Beginning near the Colorado-New Mexico line in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Canadian flows 900 miles. Its course runs southeast, then east until it finally joins the Arkansas 36 miles from Fort Smith.
(1967)
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 discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum industry.
In 1876, Potter County was officially established and named after Robert Potter, a lawyer and signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence. The county's first town, Amarillo, was founded soon after and quickly became the county seat. Initially, Amarillo served as a cattle shipping point and a center for trade, attracting businesses and settlers from surrounding areas.
The early 20th century brought significant development to Potter County. The discovery of oil in nearby areas in the 1920s led to a boom in the county, with oil companies setting up operations and bringing wealth and jobs to the region. This growth and prosperity continued throughout the 20th century, with Amarillo becoming a major economic and cultural hub in the Texas Panhandle.
Today, Potter County continues to thrive as a vibrant community. Its economy is diversified, with significant contributions from industries such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and tourism. The county boasts numerous parks, museums, and attractions, making it an attractive destination for visitors. With its rich history and ongoing growth, Potter County remains a significant contributor to the heritage and economy of Texas.
Potter County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Potter County, Texas.
- Potter County is formed on August 21, 1876
- In 1886, Amarillo becomes the county seat of Potter County
- The first courthouse in Potter County is built in 1887
- The first oil well is drilled in Potter County in 1921
- Potter County experiences significant growth during the oil boom of the 1920s
- Palo Duro Canyon State Park is established in Potter County in 1934
- In 1951, the Pantex Plant is established in Potter County, becoming a key facility for the assembly and disassembly of nuclear weapons
- The Tri-State Fair & Rodeo, held annually in Potter County, celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2021