Historic Courthouse

Somervell County Courthouse

Glen Rose, Texas

Built in 1882.

Two story, hipped roof structure with cupola.

1876- walls laid for courthouse1882- courthouse completed1893- razed by fire

Current status: gone/burned ca. 1893

The Texas Historical Commission's (THC) nationally recognized and award-winning Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program (THCPP) has turned around the trend of disrepair and begun restoring these treasured historic landmarks. Texas has more historic courthouses than any other state. Today more than 240 courthouses still stand that are least 50 years old. About 80 were built before the turn of the 20th century. By the end of that century, most of these structures were significantly deteriorated due to inadequate maintenance, insensitive modifications or weather related damage. The Texas Historical Commission (THC) documented the condition of 50 of the state’s oldest courthouses in the late 1990s and determined that counties lacked the resources to preserve the buildings for future generations.

pioneers Native American
The world's first rodeo was held in Pecos, Texas in 1883. The event included bronco riding, calf roping, and bull riding.
Texas random facts
Somervell County, located in north-central Texas, has a rich history that dates back several centuries. The area was originally occupied by Native American tribes, primarily the Tonkawa, before European settlers arrived in the 1850s. The county was officially established in 1875 and was named after Alexander Somervell, a Texas general who fought during the Texas Revolution.

In the late 19th century, Somervell County became a prominent center for agriculture and ranching. Cotton was the main crop grown in the county, and many farms and plantations flourished during this time. Additionally, the discovery of large limestone deposits in the county led to the establishment of several quarries, which became an important industry for the area.

One of the most significant events in Somervell County's history occurred in the early 20th century. In 1929, construction began on the Glen Rose Dam, which created the picturesque Lake Granbury. This provided water for irrigation and recreational opportunities, leading to the growth of tourism in the area.

Today, Somervell County continues to thrive with a diverse economy that includes tourism, agriculture, and small businesses. The county is known for its natural beauty, with attractions such as the Dinosaur Valley State Park, which features fossilized dinosaur footprints, and the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, a popular safari park. The historic downtown area of Glen Rose remains a charming destination for visitors, showcasing its rich history through numerous preserved buildings and museums.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Somervell County, Texas.

  • 1849 - Somervell County is established as a county by the Texas state legislature.
  • 1850 - The first settlers begin arriving in Somervell County.
  • 1852 - The county's first post office is established at Glen Rose.
  • 1860 - The population of Somervell County reaches 604 residents.
  • 1861 - The Civil War begins, and many men from Somervell County join the Confederate Army.
  • 1875 - The Texas Central Railroad is completed, passing through Glen Rose and boosting the local economy.
  • 1881 - Dinosaur tracks are discovered along the Paluxy River, leading to increased tourism and scientific interest in the area.
  • 1906 - The creation of the Brazos River Authority brings hydroelectric power to Somervell County.
  • 1929 - The Great Depression heavily impacts the county's agricultural and oil industries.
  • 1969 - The Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant is completed, providing a major source of employment and revenue for Somervell County.
  • 1990 - The population of Somervell County reaches 6,333 residents.
  • 2013 - The creation of the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center attracts tourists from around the world.
  • 2019 - Somervell County celebrates its 170th anniversary since its establishment.