Historical Markers in
Taylor County, Texas

12th Armored Division at Camp Barkeley 45th Infantry Division at Camp Barkeley Abilene Christian University Abilene High School, Original Site of Abilene Municipal Cemetery Abilene Negro High School Abilene Reporter-News Abilene State School Abilene Woman's Club Building Buffalo Gap Cemetery Buffalo Gap College Butler, Dr. William & Beatrice, Home Butterfield Mail and Stage Line Camp Barkeley Castle Peak Cedar Gap Community Childers Classical Institute Claiborne Walker Merchant Company I, 7th Texas Infantry Cornelia Clark Fort Drummond Cemetery Dyess Elementary School Ernie Wilson Museum Eugenia Pickard First Exploratory Oil Well in Taylor County First Taylor County Jail - Courthouse Fletcher Ranch Hardin-Simmons University Hashknife Ranch, Site of Old Headquarters Hattie and Henry Sayles, Sr., House Hotel Wooten In Vicinity of Coronado's Camp J. G. Higginbotham House James Harrison Parramore James Winford Hunt Jim Ned Creek Laughter Undertaking Company Lawn Atlas ICBM Launch Facility Lindbergh in West Texas Lt. Col. William E. Dyess Lytle Gap-Potosi Methodist Church Macedonia Baptist Church Magee House McMurry College Mexican-American / Americanization School Miss Clara Bussell Morgan Jones Mount Zion Baptist Church Mountain Pass Station Mulberry Canyon Near Site of Indian Battle Ned, Jim, Creek Ned, Jim, Creek (stolen) Old Weather Bureau Building Parramore Post #57, American Legion Pine Street Shoot Out Sacred Heart Catholic Church Site of Abilene's First School Site of Curfew by John J. Clinton Site of Guitar Mansion Site of Old Headquarters of the Hashknife Ranch Site of Thornton's Store Site of Western Cattle Trail Taylor County Taylor County Taylor, Edward, James, & George Texas & Pacific Railroad Depot Texas & Pacific Railway: First Railroad Across West Texas The Civilian Conservation Corps at Abilene State Park Town of Buffalo Gap Valley Creek Station Valley Creek Station, Site of Vicinity of Indian Fight Vicinity of Indian Fight William G. and Shirley Swenson Home Willis, Thomas Middlebrook
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
Taylor County is located in the west-central region of Texas and has a rich and diverse history. The area that is now Taylor County was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Comanche and Kiowa, before European settlers arrived. In the mid-19th century, the region became part of Texas and was officially established as Taylor County in 1858, named after Edward Taylor, a prominent figure in the Mexican-American War.

The early years of Taylor County were characterized by the hardships and challenges faced by the settlers. The area was sparsely populated, and conflicts with Native American tribes were common. However, with the development of the Texas and Pacific Railway in the late 19th century, Taylor County experienced a significant period of growth and development. The railroad sparked economic growth, attracting new settlers and industries to the area.

Agriculture played a vital role in Taylor County's history, with cotton being the dominant crop. The fertile soil and favorable climate allowed farmers to thrive, and cotton production became a major industry in the county. However, the agricultural boom was affected by various factors, including natural disasters and economic fluctuations, leading to both prosperity and challenges for the region's farmers.

Over the years, Taylor County has continued to evolve and diversify its economy. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century led to the establishment of the petroleum industry in the county, bringing new opportunities for growth and development. Today, Taylor County is a thriving community with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, oil and gas, manufacturing, education, and healthcare. The county's rich history is celebrated through its numerous historical sites and museums, providing a glimpse into the past while embracing the progress and future of the region.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Taylor County, Texas.

  • 1858 - Taylor County is officially formed and organized.
  • 1878 - Abilene becomes the county seat of Taylor County.
  • 1881 - The Texas and Pacific Railway is completed, increasing transportation and trade in Taylor County.
  • 1890 - Taylor County population reaches over 8,000 residents.
  • 1909 - Abilene Christian College (now Abilene Christian University) is established.
  • 1924 - Construction of the Lake Abilene dam begins.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression severely impacts Taylor County, causing economic hardship.
  • 1950 - Dyess Air Force Base is established, bringing economic growth to the county.
  • 1969 - Abilene becomes the first city in Texas to implement the "911" emergency telephone system.
  • 1999 - The Taylor County Expo Center opens, becoming a hub for events and exhibitions.
  • 2006 - The Abilene Zoo completes a major renovation, enhancing its facilities and exhibits.