Historical Marker

Old Campsite of Jesse and Frank James

Historical marker location:
US 380, E of Decatur, Decatur, Texas
( From Decatur, take US 380 east about 5 miles.)
Marker installed: 1967
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Famous western frontier outlaws, who had many Texas hideouts along a line from the Rio Grande to the Red River. The camps - extending into Missouri, their home state - were used for hiding stolen horses until posses could be thrown off the trail. The campsites were sometimes known to scattered settlers, who feared or befriended the bandits.

Also, friendly with the James brothers (and also operating sometimes in Texas) were fellow Missouri outlaws, Cole Younger and "Bandit Queen" Belle Starr.

This was an era of widespread lawlessness in Texas. Billy the Kid roamed into West Texas. The Daltons, John Wesley Hardin, Cullen Baker, Bill Longley, Sam Bass and many others found it easy to kill and rob and then hid in wild areas where they were beyond the reach of local officers, and food was plentiful.

After reconstruction ended in 1874, Texas Rangers were reorganized, to restore respect for the law. Given special powers, in 1889-90 they arrested 579 wanted men (including 76 alleged murders). Jesse James and some other notorious badmen by then were dead. Frank, reformed, worked as a salesman in Dallas, Paris, and other Texas towns

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.

forts outlaws
The Battle of San Jacinto fought on April 21, 1836, was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution, and led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the conflict.
Texas random facts
Wise County is located in northern Texas and has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1856. The area was initially occupied by indigenous tribes such as the Kiowa and Wichita before European settlement began. The county was named after Henry A. Wise, a Governor of Virginia who supported Texas' annexation.

In the early years, Wise County was primarily used for ranching and farming due to its fertile soil and abundant water supply. The arrival of the Fort Worth and Denver Railway in the late 1800s brought increased opportunities for trade and commerce, spurring economic growth in the region.

During the Civil War, Wise County remained divided between Unionists and Confederates, leading to some conflict within the county. After the war, the discovery of coal deposits in the area led to the establishment of coal mining towns, including Newark and Rhome. These towns ushered in a new era of industrialization and attracted more settlers to the county in search of employment.

In the early 20th century, Wise County experienced a decline in coal mining due to competition from other energy sources. However, the discovery of oil in the 1920s sparked a new economic boom. Today, Wise County remains a hub for oil and gas production, contributing significantly to the local economy. It also boasts a diverse agricultural industry and has become a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, and hiking.

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

  • 1856 - Wise County is established and named after Virginia Governor Henry A. Wise.
  • 1860 - The first post office, called Taylorsville, is established in the county.
  • 1867 - The county's first courthouse is built in Decatur, the county seat.
  • 1873 - The Wise County Old Settlers Association is founded to preserve the county's history.
  • 1882 - The Wise County Messenger, the county's oldest newspaper, is established.
  • 1883 - The Fort Worth and Denver City Railway is completed, connecting Wise County to major cities.
  • 1905 - The county's second courthouse, a grand Neoclassical building, is completed.
  • 1920 - The oil boom hits Wise County, leading to increased drilling and economic growth.
  • 1927 - The county's third courthouse, a Modern Classical structure, is completed.
  • 1969 - Lake Bridgeport, a reservoir, is completed, providing water recreation opportunities.
  • 2000 - The population of Wise County reaches over 48,000 people.
  • 2015 - The Wise County Heritage Museum is established to showcase the county's history.