Historical Markers in
Wilson County, Texas

Albert Kosub House Applewhite Homestead Barker-Huebinger House Beall Cemetery Beauregard Ranch Brahan Lodge #226, A.F. & A.M. Bridge at McAlister Crossing (Mueller Bridge) (2/10 mi. SW) Camp Ranch Community Captain Will Wright Casa Blanca Cemetery of Canary Islanders Charles Carl Winkler House Christ United Methodist Church Cibolo Crossing on the Gonzales Road de la Zerda Cemetery Fairview Fairview Methodist Church First Baptist Church of Floresville First Baptist Church of Stockdale Flores Rancho Floresville United Methodist Church Garza-Valadez Cemetery Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery Immanuel Lutheran Church James Charles Wilson John Reagen Baker Kicaster Community King-Lorenz House La Vernia La Vernia United Methodist Church Linne Oil Field Mackey Brick and Tile Manufacturing Company Marcelina Cemetery Marcelina Community Mision de las Cabras ("Mission of the Goats") Near Site of Lodi Ferry Old Chihuahua Road Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church Pat Higgins Grass Farms Pearce-Maxwell Cemetery Polley Cemetery Rector Chapel Cemetery Shiloh Cemetery Site of Nockenut Site of Old Town of Union Valley Site of Old Town: Lodi St. Ann's Catholic Church Stockdale Cemetery Sutherland Springs Sutherland Springs Cemetery Sutherland Springs School Site Suttles Pottery Texas Ranger and Sheriff Capt. Will L. Wright The Flores de Abrego Family and Floresville The Site of the Mission of las Cabreras Town Named for Governor F.S. Stockdale Wheeler Cemetery White House Café and Saloon Whitehall Wilson County Wilson County Courthouse Yndo Ranch
Texas was once a part of Mexico but gained independence in 1836 after a famous battle at the Alamo.
Wilson County, Texas, located in the southern part of the state, has a rich history that reaches back to early Native American settlements. The Karankawa tribe was the first known inhabitants of the area, living off the abundant natural resources the region had to offer. The arrival of Spanish explorers in the 18th century brought about significant changes in the area.

In the early 1800s, the region that is now Wilson County was part of the DeWitt Colony, a settlement established by Green DeWitt. The area played a crucial role in the Texas Revolution, with the Battle of Refugio taking place nearby in 1836. As the conflict between Texas colonists and Mexican forces raged on, the region became a hotbed of activity and witnessed significant military actions.

Wilson County was officially established in 1860, named in honor of James Charles Wilson, a Texas state legislator who fought in the battle of San Jacinto. The county experienced rapid growth in the 19th century due to the establishment of ranching and farming communities. Cattle ranching became a prominent industry, and the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further boosted economic development.

The county faced challenges in the 20th century, including the Great Depression, which resulted in a decline in agricultural productivity. However, the discovery of oil and gas reserves brought renewed economic prosperity to the area. Today, Wilson County is known for its diverse economy, which includes agriculture, oil and gas production, and manufacturing. The region has preserved much of its historical heritage and continues to celebrate its unique cultural and historical significance.

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

  • February 13, 1854 - Wilson County established by the Texas legislature
  • 1856 - County seat established in Floresville
  • Late 1800s - Growth in agriculture sector, primarily cotton farming
  • 1902 - Construction of the Wilson County Courthouse completed
  • 1930s - Economic decline due to the Great Depression
  • 1940s - World War II leads to increased military presence in the area
  • Mid-1960s - Oil and gas production becomes a significant industry
  • 1970s - Growth in population and expansion of Floresville
  • 1998 - The Floresville Peanut Festival established
  • 2010 - Rapid population growth and increased development