Canadian River Municipal Water Authority - Canadian River Project
Historical marker location:The Canadian River Municipal Water Authority was authorized by a Texas Constitutional Amendment on May 27, 1953. It was approved, by vote of citizens of eleven West Texas cities, for purpose of supplying municipal and industrial water to Amarillo, Borger, Brownfield, Lamesa, Levelland, Lubbock, O'Donnell, Pampa, Plainview, Slaton and Tahoka. Construction was supervised by the United States Bureau of Reclamation. Sanford Dam (located 34 mi. NE of here) is the impounding structure for Lake Meredith. The aqueduct system consists of 322 miles of concrete pressure pipe--the longest pipeline supervised by the Reclamation Bureau to this date. Construction costs ($83,799,000) covered the following items: municipal and industrial water, $76,975,000; flood control, $2,833,000; fish and wildlife, $2,891,000; recreation, $1,100,000. Water cost will be repaid to Federal Government, with interest, over a 50-year period. This is largest repayment contract ever made between a water authority and the U.S. Government. This section of pipe is identical to that utilized in segment of the aqueduct two miles west of this marker. This pipe section is 78 inches in diameter, 22 feet in length and weighs 36,000 pounds. INCISE ON BACK: This marker contributed by Gifford-Hill-American, Inc., Concrete Pressure Pipe Manufacturers
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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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