Milam
Historical marker location:The first known description of Milam was given by Stephen Fuller Austin in his diary as he camped along El Camino Real de los Tejas in 1821. Because of the towns close proximity to the trail, Milam saw many explorers, veterans, and pioneers pass through the area. Milam, one of the oldest towns in texas, was originally known as Red Mound, and was attractive to settlers for its agricultural wealth. After the county seat was moved to Hemphill in 1858, the town of Milam slowly began to decline. The depression, closure of the school and a shift away from cotton farming led to the relocation of many milam residents. Recently, retirees have returned for recreational activities in the area.
175 Years of Texas Independence * 1836-2011
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 city of Austin, the state capital, is known as the live music capital of the world. It is home to many music festivals, including South by Southwest (SXSW) and the Austin City Limits Music Festival.
In the early 19th century, Sabine County became a part of the newly established Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas. The area attracted American settlers who were lured by the fertile soil for farming and the potential for trade along the Sabine River. One influential settler, James Gaines, established the city of Milam in 1835, which would later become the county seat of Sabine County.
The history of Sabine County is closely intertwined with the struggle for independence and the establishment of the Republic of Texas. During the Texas Revolution, the area witnessed several significant events, such as the Battle of Nacogdoches in 1832 and the Battle of Gaines' Ferry in 1836. After Texas gained independence from Mexico in 1836, Sabine County became a part of the newly formed Republic of Texas.
As the years went by, Sabine County experienced various economic booms and downturns, primarily driven by industries such as timber and oil. The timber industry played a vital role in the county's early development, with sawmills and logging camps becoming prominent features of the local economy. In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil led to a short-lived but significant oil boom in the area, attracting numerous companies and workers.
Today, Sabine County remains a vibrant and diverse community, with a mix of rural and urban areas. Its rich history is celebrated through various cultural events and landmarks, showcasing its role as an integral part of Texas's heritage.
Sabine County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Sabine County, Texas.
- 1836: Sabine County is established and organized as a county of the Republic of Texas.
- 1843: The town of Hemphill is established as the county seat of Sabine County.
- 1854: The Sabine Pass Lighthouse is constructed on the Sabine Pass.
- 1861: Sabine County residents vote overwhelmingly in favor of secession from the Union.
- 1881: The Texas State Penitentiary is established in Sabine County.
- 1936: Toledo Bend Reservoir, one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States, is completed along the Sabine River.
- 1957: The Sabine River Authority of Texas is created to manage the water resources of the Sabine River Basin.
- 1976: The Sabine County Historical Commission is established to preserve and promote the county's history.
- 1990: The Sabine County Courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.