Historical Marker

John Hart Wilson

Historical marker location:
4015 Lake Park Drive, Wichita Falls, Texas
( Near corner of 4015 Lake Park Drive and Brenda Hursh Road)
Marker installed: 2010
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Entrepreneur John Hart Wilson was born in Pueblo, Colorado and grew up in Clarksburg, West Virginia. He graduated from Purdue University in 1914 with a degree in electrical engineering and joined the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He then worked in Toledo, Ohio, setting up electrical generating plants, before serving as an engineer during World War I. After the war, he organized a company in Clarksburg to manufacture electric lights to be installed on Model T Fords after purchase.

In 1920, Wilson moved to Burkburnett, joining his brother. There, he met and married Ella Nevile, a nurse. Wilson designed a winch that could be mounted to a tractor and moved between oil wells; the product’s success led Wilson to move his manufacturing company to Wichita Falls in 1926. In 1932, he introduced a mechanical drilling rig, which helped make steam-powered drilling rigs obsolete. Wilson patented 118 inventions, including the chain transmission, which made possible the use of larger engines with greater drilling speed and depth potential. He also improved a pneumatically controlled clutch, making it possible to control large amounts of power by moving a small actuating valve. He organized Wichita Clutch Company to produce this equipment; he also owned Wichita Falls Foundry and Machine Company, which produced castings. During World War II, Wilson redesigned and manufactured barrage balloon winches, used to keep low-flying enemy aircraft away from troop positions. He also built houses and commercial buildings. Today, John Hart Wilson is remembered as a gifted inventor whose accomplishments were matched only by his ethics and generosity

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 first oil well in the United States was drilled in Texas in 1859. The discovery of oil transformed the economy of the state and helped to make Texas one of the wealthiest states in the nation.
Texas random facts
Wichita County, Texas, located in the northwest part of the state, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The Wichita and Comanche Native American tribes were the first inhabitants of the area, with evidence of their settlements and hunting grounds dating back to at least the 16th century. Spanish explorers, including Francisco Vásquez de Coronado, also passed through the region in the 16th century.

The area that would become Wichita County was officially settled by European Americans in the mid-19th century. In 1856, the Texas legislature created Wichita County, naming it after the Wichita tribe. The construction of the Fort Worth and Denver City Railroad through the county in the late 19th century brought growth and development to the area, attracting settlers.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Wichita County experienced the boom and bust cycles common in many Texas counties. Agriculture, particularly cattle ranching and cotton farming, were the primary industries, but oil was discovered in the region in the early 20th century, leading to a significant economic boost. The county became an important oil-producing region, with oil wells and refineries becoming a common sight.

In the present day, Wichita County continues to be a vital part of Texas. It is home to the city of Wichita Falls, the county seat and largest city, which serves as a regional hub for commerce, education, and healthcare. The county's economy has diversified, with sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, education, and military operations playing a significant role. Wichita County's rich history and natural beauty, including attractions like the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, make it a fascinating place to explore and learn about.

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

  • 1872 - Wichita County is officially established on February 1.
  • 1882 - The town of Wichita Falls is incorporated on September 27.
  • 1905 - Wichita County experiences a significant population boom due to the discovery of oil.
  • 1922 - The first hospital in Wichita County, Wichita General Hospital, is established.
  • 1927 - Sheppard Air Force Base is built near Wichita Falls.
  • 1957 - The Wichita Valley Airport opens, later renamed Wichita Falls Municipal Airport.
  • 1964 - A destructive tornado hits Wichita Falls, causing significant damage and loss of life.
  • 1995 - Wichita County voters approve the sale of alcohol, ending the county's prohibition era.
  • 2007 - Lake Arrowhead State Park, a popular recreational area, opens in Wichita County.
  • 2019 - The Wichita County Courthouse celebrates its 100th anniversary.
  • 2020 - The COVID-19 pandemic impacts Wichita County, leading to various restrictions and measures.