Historical Marker

William H. Dodd

Historical marker location:
Torres St, Langtry, Texas
( Langtry, Torres Street)
Marker installed: 2003
Marker size: 18" x 28"

William H. Dodd

Born in 1868, England native William H. Dodd settled in Val Verde County by 1894, establishing a ranch and general merchandise store. He also served as postmaster, operating the post office from his store, which occupied this site for many years. Dodd and his wife, Lula, also owned a rooming and boarding house and were both active in the Langtry community. She organized town festivals, and between 1892 and 1933, he served in many official positions, including Justice of the Peace and County Commissioner. Dodd also reportedly aided Mexican revolutionaries, providing them with arms and other supplies. Remembered fondly by much of Langtry, Dodd died in 1935, survived by Lula and their four children.

(2003)

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.

merchants municipal official
The Texas Rangers, a famous law enforcement agency, were first organized in 1835 to protect settlers from Native American attacks.
Texas random facts
Val Verde County, located in southwestern Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by various indigenous tribes, including the Coahuiltecans and Lipan Apaches. In the 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the area, and by the 18th century, Spanish missions were established to convert the native populations to Christianity.

In the early 19th century, Val Verde County became a part of Texas after the Mexican War of Independence. The region saw conflict during the Texas Revolution, with the infamous Battle of Val Verde taking place near the county's namesake river in 1862. The battle, part of the American Civil War, resulted in a Confederate victory.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Val Verde County experienced significant economic growth. The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s stimulated agriculture and ranching industries. The county also became a hub for mining, particularly silver, lead, and zinc. The city of Del Rio, the county seat, emerged as an important trading center and transportation hub.

Val Verde County continued to evolve throughout the 20th century. The construction of Amistad Dam in the 1960s brought about the formation of Lake Amistad, which became a popular recreational area. The county's economy shifted to include tourism and outdoor activities, drawing visitors to its natural beauty and historical sites.

Today, Val Verde County remains an important part of Texas history and a vibrant community. Its rich past is celebrated through museums and heritage sites, while the region's diverse cultural and natural resources contribute to its appeal as a tourist destination.

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

  • 1885 - Val Verde County is officially established.
  • 1800s - Indigenous people, including Comanche and Lipan Apache tribes, inhabit the area.
  • 1880 - Southern Pacific Railroad extends through Val Verde County.
  • 1882 - City of Del Rio is founded as the county seat.
  • 1912 - Devil's River State Recreational Area is established.
  • 1942-1946 - Laughlin Army Air Field (now Laughlin Air Force Base) is constructed and operated during World War II.
  • 1952 - Amistad Dam is completed, creating Amistad Reservoir.
  • 1980 - Seminole Canyon State Historical Park and the nearby Fate Bell Shelter are dedicated.
  • 1998 - Val Verde Winery, Texas' oldest continuously operated winery, celebrates its 125th anniversary.