Winters
Historical marker location:WINTERS
From its beginning as a west central Texas frontier community winters grew from a retail support center for the surrounding agricultural community to a small-town railroad link to an oil, gas and manufacturing center. Settlement of the area of Winters began in the 1880s when two families, the Currys and the Bells, staked claim to the land one mile southeast of the present-day town. In 1889, a small schoolhouse was built on land that was given by land agent J.N. Winters. The community met in the completed schoolhouse to vote on the town name and Winters won. Winters already had significant cattle and feed production, and cotton added to their growing economy. By the first decade of the 20th century, winters was typical of small settlement communities on the west central Texas prairie. In 1907, residents lobbied to construct a railroad between Abilene and Ballinger. By 1909, the railway reached Winters. This railway, along with the rise of blacktop roads and the automobile, ushered in an era of prosperity and expansion for Winters.
In 1949, Winters benefited in particular from the findings of the Cree-Sykes Oil Field and Fort Chadbourn Oil Field. Oil and gas extraction continues to contribute to the local economy. Another Winters industry was the C.L. Green Milling and Grain Co. established in 1918, the business handled all types of feeds for customers. Unlike other railroad towns, the city of Winters was never laid out on a planned grid, but instead grew in response to the importance of agriculture, petroleum exploration, manufacturing and transportation. After 125 years, the community is still progressing and is economically viable.
(2014)
MARKER IS PROPERTY OF THE STATE OF TEXAS
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 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.
In the mid-19th century, European settlers began to establish communities in the area that would become Runnels County. The county was officially established in 1858, named after Hiram G. Runnels, the third governor of the state of Mississippi. The first county seat was Runnels City, but it was later moved to the current county seat of Ballinger in 1888.
Like many areas in Texas, Runnels County experienced a boom in population and economic activity in the late 19th century due to the cattle industry and the arrival of the railroad. The county became known for its ranching and farming, with cotton becoming a prominent crop. The development of infrastructure, such as schools, churches, and businesses, contributed to the growth of the county during this period.
The early 20th century brought challenges to Runnels County, most notably the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl. The economy suffered as agricultural production declined, and many residents were forced to leave in search of better opportunities. However, the county persevered, and in the latter half of the 20th century, industries such as oil and gas extraction, manufacturing, and renewable energy began to emerge, providing new sources of economic stability.
Today, Runnels County continues to be a predominantly rural community with a strong agricultural heritage. The county's small towns offer a glimpse into its past with historic buildings and museums, showcasing the history and culture of this resilient region in central Texas.
Runnels County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Runnels County, Texas.
- 1858 - Runnels County is officially established and named after Hiram G. Runnels, a former Texas governor
- Mid to late 1800s - Settlements and ranching communities begin to form in the area
- 1886 - Ballinger, the county seat, is founded and becomes a major center for trade and agriculture
- Early 1900s - Runnels County experiences a boom in cotton farming, contributing to its economic growth
- 1920s - Oil is discovered in the county, leading to increased industrial development
- 1940s - World War II and the construction of Camp Bowie near Brownwood greatly impact the local economy
- 1960s - Construction of O.H. Ivie Reservoir begins, providing a reliable water source for the county
- 1980s - Decline in oil production and agriculture affects the county's economy
- 2000s - Efforts to diversify the economy and promote tourism are implemented