Historical Marker

Parnell

Historical marker location:
FM 283, NW of Miami about 20 mi., Miami, Texas
( from Miami, take FM-283 northwest about 20.5 miles to marker)
Marker installed: 1973
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Roberts County was created on August 21, 1876, by the Texas Legislature, but remained unorganized, as in that year it had only one settler. Its 1880 population was 32. After the Santa Fe Railroad was built across this area in 1887, settlement increased. A January 1889 election to organize the county was invalidated by fraudulent voting. However, the disqualified officers opened a courthouse in a vacant store in Miami (20 miles southeast), the county seat according to the contested election, and placed the records in a heavy safe. The legally elected authorities later obtained the records by hiring a gunman to impersonate a landowner and to capture the safe when it was opened. Hauled to the legal county seat near this site, the safe was set on blocks and a 2-story frame courthouse was built around it. First known as Bennett and then as Oran, the town was renamed Parnell when the U.S. Post Office opened in March 1890. Parnell had a few businesses, about 12 residences, a school, and a saloon. Guests rode 25 to 30 miles to attend dances in the courthouse. Those attending court in Parnell had to camp out, as the hotel was small. Miami became county seat in 1898, and Parnell was abandoned.

(1973; 1986)

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 settlements ghost towns
The Battle of San Jacinto fought on April 21, 1836, was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution, and led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the conflict.
Texas random facts
Roberts County is located in the northern panhandle region of Texas and has a rich history dating back centuries. Before European settlers arrived, the area was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Comanche and Kiowa. These indigenous groups utilized the land for hunting and gathering.

In the early 1870s, ranchers began to settle in what is now Roberts County. The region's vast grasslands provided ample grazing opportunities for cattle, attracting ranchers from across Texas. The county was officially established in 1876, named after John S. Roberts, a significant figure in the movement for Texas statehood.

Throughout the late 19th century, cattle ranching dominated the local economy, and the population grew steadily. In the 1880s, the establishment of railroads in the region further facilitated the increase in trade and transportation of cattle, allowing for better access to markets outside the county. This growth continued into the 20th century, with the development of better irrigation techniques and the expansion of farming activities.

However, like many rural areas, Roberts County faced challenges during the Great Depression. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s devastated agricultural practices in the region, causing massive crop failures and forcing many residents to abandon their farms. The federal government's New Deal programs aimed to provide relief and recovery for farmers in the area, leading to the implementation of soil conservation measures and the construction of dams and reservoirs.

Since then, Roberts County has experienced periods of economic growth and decline. Today, the county's economy is still primarily based on agriculture, with cattle ranching, farming, and wind energy production being major industries. The county's rich history and dynamic present make it an interesting and important part of Texas' heritage.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Roberts County, Texas.

  • 1876: Roberts County is officially established by the Texas legislature.
  • Late 1870s: Buffalo hunters begin to populate the area.
  • 1882: The first post office, "Roberts", is established.
  • 1890: The county population is recorded at 565 residents.
  • Early 1900s: Farmers and ranchers settle in the area, establishing the agricultural economy.
  • 1933: The Dust Bowl hits Roberts County, causing severe soil erosion and economic hardships.
  • 1950s: Oil and gas exploration begins, leading to increased economic activity in the county.
  • 1980: The county reaches its peak population of around 1,400 residents.
  • 1990s: Population decline begins as job opportunities decrease.
  • Present: Roberts County continues to be a rural community with a focus on agriculture and energy industries.