Family Forts, C.S.A.
Historical marker location:Few in numbers and with little protection from the military but refusing to abandon their country, certain families of courageous and determined people on the Texas frontier during the Civil War gathered together in hastily constructed stockades and held out against the threats of hostile Indians and renegade whites. Known as "forting up", this plan was encouraged by the military for this part of the state. Most of the men 18 to 45 were away in Confederate service and those 17 and over 45 were subject to periodic militia duty for frontier protection. Family forts gave settlers a way to protect stock, farms and provide some schooling for their children.
Back of Family Forts, C.S. A.
Best-known family fort in this sector was Fort Davis, located 8 miles east on bank of Clear Fork of Brazos in Stephens County, where some 120 people lived during last year of Civil War. Named for Confederate President Jefferson Davis, it was laid off in lots. Log houses with dirt roofs, mud in cracks, dirt floors, were connected by pickets driven into ground. A blockhouse was used by women and children during raids. There were no luxuries, little food, all clothes, soap, soda, candles were made. Nearest supplies were 100 miles away, doctor 65 miles. Yet, there were dances, candy pulls, weddings, "feasts", Sunday School, occasional sermons and blue-backed spellers. Other family forts near were: Lynch and Green ranches, Shackelford County, Blair's Fort, Allen's Ranch, Eastland County; Buffalo Springs, Clay County; Bragg's, Murray's, Young County; Picketville, Mugginsville, Owls Head, Stephens County.
Erected by the State of Texas, 1963
April 12, 1861: The Civil War begins with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, located in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor.
April 15, 1861: President Abraham Lincoln issues a call for 75,000 volunteers to serve in the Union Army to suppress the rebellion.
May 24, 1861: The first major land battle, known as the First Battle of Bull Run (or First Battle of Manassas), takes place in Virginia. It ends in Confederate victory.
September 17, 1862: The Battle of Antietam in Maryland becomes the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Union forces, commanded by General George McClellan, manage to halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into Union territory.
January 1, 1863: President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories are to be set free. However, the proclamation does not immediately free all slaves in the United States.
July 1-3, 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania takes place, resulting in a significant Union victory and inflicting heavy casualties on Confederate forces. It marks a turning point in the war.
November 19, 1863: President Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and the preservation of the Union.
April 9, 1865: General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.
April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.
May 10, 1865: Confederate President Jefferson Davis is captured, signaling the collapse of the Confederate government.
December 6, 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery throughout the country.
While this timeline provides an overview of key events, it is important to note that the Civil War spanned over four years, from 1861 to 1865, and encompassed numerous battles, campaigns, and political developments that shaped the course of American history.
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 Alamo, a mission in San Antonio, is perhaps the most famous historical site in Texas. It was the site of a key battle during the Texas Revolution in 1836.
The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Comanche and Kiowa. However, it was eventually settled by European settlers in the mid-1800s, who sought fertile land for ranching and farming. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century further boosted the local economy and brought new opportunities for growth.
During the Civil War, Shackelford County witnessed significant military activities. Confederate troops were stationed in the area, and the county saw skirmishes and battles between local troops and Union forces. After the war, the County experienced a period of reconstruction and recovery, as settlers worked to rebuild their communities and infrastructure.
In the early 20th century, Shackelford County was predominantly an agricultural and ranching community. However, the discovery of oil in the region in the 1920s transformed the local economy. Oil wells and refineries were established, attracting new industries and jobs to the area. The County experienced a period of prosperity and development during this time.
Today, Shackelford County continues to be a vibrant community with a thriving agriculture industry, supported by ranching, farming, and oil production. Its rich history is preserved and celebrated through various historical sites and museums, offering visitors and locals a glimpse into the county's past.
Shackelford County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Shackelford County, Texas.
- 1858 - Shackelford County is created by the Texas Legislature from portions of Bosque, Travis, and Young counties.
- 1874 - The first settlers begin arriving in the area.
- 1875 - Fort Griffin is established as a U.S. Army outpost.
- 1878 - The county seat is moved from Fort Griffin to Albany.
- 1880 - The Texas Central Railroad extends its line to Albany, boosting the local economy.
- 1883 - The town of Moran is founded.
- 1900 - Oil and gas is discovered, leading to an economic boom in the county.
- 1940 - World War II brings an increase in military activity to the area.
- 1979 - The Shackelford County Historical Commission is established to preserve the county's history.
- 2000 - The population of Shackelford County reaches its peak, with over 3,300 residents.