Historical Marker

Thomas Henry Mathis Ranch

Historical marker location:
County Road 441, Mathis, Texas
( Cenizo Hill Cemetery on CR 441)
Marker installed: 1988
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In 1879, following the dissolution of the Coleman, Mathis, Fulton Cattle Company, Thomas Henry Mathis (1834-1899) established a ranch he called the Henry Bend Ranch, named for a combination of his middle name and its location on a bend in the Nueces River. The ranch covered some 24,000 acres of land in southwestern San Patricio County. In 1880 Mathis fenced 17,000 acres along the Nueces River with wooden planks. In a 3,000-acre enclosure were his registered cattle and horses, as well as his prized polo ponies, which were trained on the ranch and sold to buyers in England. Near this site was the ranch headquarters, built in 1880 and razed in 1953. Realizing the advantage of a nearby rail line, Mathis donated land for a right-of-way to the San Antonio & Aransas Pass Railroad in 1887. A 100-acre townsite, named for Mathis, was platted and dedicated in 1889. The entire town was fenced in order to keep the roaming cattle out, and there were two wooden gates guarding the entrances to the city. An important part of San Patricio County history, the Mathis Ranch was sold and divided in subsequent years. (1988)

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.

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San Patricio County, located in southeastern Texas, has a rich and diverse history that spans many centuries. The area was initially home to various indigenous peoples, including the Karankawa, who inhabited the region for thousands of years. In the 16th century, Spanish explorers began to arrive, claiming the land for Spain and establishing missions in the area. These missions played a significant role in the region's early development.

By the early 19th century, Mexican settlers began to populate the area, leading to the establishment of San Patricio de Hibernia, a small community near the Nueces River. This settlement grew, becoming the county seat and a major center of commerce. However, as tensions grew between Mexico and the United States, San Patricio County became a focal point of conflict during the Texas Revolution. In 1836, local residents joined forces with Texan rebels to fight against Mexican forces in the Battle of Nueces.

After Texas gained independence from Mexico, San Patricio County continued to grow and develop. The discovery of oil and natural gas in the early 20th century brought prosperity to the area and attracted new industries. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, also played a significant role in the county's economy. Over time, the county's population diversified, with immigrants from Ireland, Germany, and other parts of Europe contributing to its cultural heritage.

In recent decades, San Patricio County has continued to thrive, with the expansion of industrial and manufacturing sectors. The county is home to major refineries, chemical plants, and a naval air station. It has also become a popular tourist destination, with its coastal location offering beautiful beaches, recreational opportunities, and attractions such as the Copano Bay State Fishing Pier and the historic town of Sinton. Today, San Patricio County remains a vibrant community, embracing its rich history while looking toward a bright future.

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

  • 1828 - The Mexican government grants land to Irish empresarios James Power and James Hewetson, leading to the settlement of Irish immigrants in the area that would become San Patricio County.
  • 1836 - Texas gains independence from Mexico, and San Patricio County is officially established as a county of the Republic of Texas.
  • 1870 - Railroads, including the Texas-Mexican Railway, begin operating in San Patricio County, boosting trade and transportation in the region.
  • 1886 - The discovery of oil in neighboring Nueces County leads to the development of the petroleum industry in San Patricio County.
  • 1927 - The town of Taft is incorporated, becoming an important center for the oil and gas industry in the county.
  • 1941 - The Naval Air Station Corpus Christi is established southwest of Portland, becoming a major training base during World War II.
  • 1961 - The construction of the Port of Corpus Christi's Ingleside Marine Terminal begins, further boosting the county's economic growth.
  • 1970 - The completion of the Interstate Highway 37 connects San Patricio County to major transportation routes.
  • 2017 - Hurricane Harvey makes landfall in San Patricio County, causing significant damage to the area.