Historical Marker

Granville E. Waters

Historical marker location:
FM 2408, Moran, Texas
( 1.5 mi. E of Moran on FM 2408, at gravesite in Moran Cemetery)
Marker installed: 2004
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Born in Ashtabula County, Ohio in April 1852, Granville Eades Waters came to Texas in 1871. He settled in the north central part of the state before moving to Shackelford County in 1876. The next year, he wed Rennie Harris, daughter of a Waco mayor. The couple settled in a log cabin near Deep Creek, a few miles north of Hulltown (present Moran). With their five sons, they faced the hardships of frontier life; the closest post office was in Fort Griffin, and the nearest railroad connected Dallas to Fort Worth.

For many years, on behalf of Ohio friend Cyrus B. Snyder, Waters operated the Ashtabula Stock Ranch west of Moran. Known by the honorary title of Colonel, he found success as a breeder and dealer of Hereford cattle, first bringing them to the ranch in 1885. He later served as president of the American Hereford Cattle Breeder's Association. The Waters Ranch became a social center for the area. The site of picnics, ballgames and other events, it provided a meeting place for many years until the house burned and the family moved into Moran, where their property became the Waters Addition to the town.

Waters served as county commissioner (1884-1892) and vice-president of Moran National Bank. In the early 1900s, Waters worked in real estate, insurance, gas and oil leasing, and as a scout for the Texas Company (Texaco). He was also active in the Methodist Episcopal Church, Freemasons and Knights Templar.

Waters died at a Fort Worth hospital in 1927. He is remembered today for his contributions to the local community and for his influence on the area economy through the introduction of Hereford stock and the early exploration for oil and gas in Shackelford County. (2005)

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.

business cowboys
The discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum industry.
Texas random facts
Shackelford County, located in the state of Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 19th century. The County was officially established in 1858 and named after Dr. John Shackelford, a prominent Texas soldier and statesman.

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.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history 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.