Historical Marker

Addie M. Graham

Historical marker location:
Fireman's Park, FM 61, Graham, Texas
( FM 61, Graham; in Fireman's Park)
Marker installed: 1986
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Born in Indiana in 1843, Agnes Mary ("Addie") Kinter married Edwin Smith Graham in 1865. Upon hearing of the opportunities for land development in Texas, Graham traveled to Texas many times during the 1870s. In 1872, he and his brother, G. A., founded this town. They gave land for a county courthouse and set aside lots for churches, schools, and cemeteries.

In 1879, E. S. and Addie Graham brought their children to live in the new town. Twelve years later, they moved to Spokane, Washington, where Col. Graham had other business ventures. He died there in 1899.

Addie Graham returned to Graham and continued her husband's philanthropic efforts. She contributed to the building of a city auditorium, endowed a Bible teaching position in the Graham schools, and donated land on which was built a home for the aged poor of the county. In 1907, the city's first water pumping station was built to replace the individual wells and cisterns that had been used since the town's founding. The water remained untreated, however, until 1910, when Addie Graham gave the money for a filtering plant. The facility, built at this site, was in use for 75 years.

Addie Graham died in 1929. Her contributions have had a lasting impact on the town's growth and development.

Texas Sesquicentennial 1836-1986

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.

women women's history topics pioneers water topics
The first domed stadium in the world, the Astrodome, was built in Houston in 1965 and hosted numerous sporting events and concerts over the years.
Texas random facts
Young County, Texas, located in the northern part of the state, has a rich and vibrant history. The county was named after Colonel William Cocke Young, an early settler and Texas Ranger. The area was originally home to several indigenous tribes, including the Comanche and Kiowa tribes, who relied on the abundant game and resources in the region.

European settlement in Young County began in the mid-19th century, with the arrival of immigrants from the southeastern United States. The county was officially established in 1856, and the town of Fort Belknap became the county seat. This fort played a crucial role in protecting pioneers from Native American attacks and served as an important trading post on the Butterfield Overland Mail route.

During the Civil War, Young County experienced great turmoil, with many residents supporting both the Union and Confederate causes. After the war, the county's economy began to develop, primarily through agriculture and ranching. Cattle raising became a significant industry, and the establishment of rail lines in the late 19th century further facilitated the growth of the county.

In the 20th century, Young County continued to evolve and diversify. Oil was discovered in the early 1900s, attracting many workers and leading to the establishment of new towns and industries. The construction of Lake Graham in the 1930s brought additional economic opportunities, particularly in tourism and outdoor recreation.

Today, Young County is a thriving community that celebrates its Western heritage and natural beauty. With a mix of historical sites, cultural events, and outdoor attractions, the county attracts visitors and residents alike.

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

  • 1854 - Young County is established and named after early Texas settler George Washington Young.
  • 1874 - The first permanent settlement in the county, Belknap, is established.
  • 1881 - Graham, the current county seat, is founded and quickly becomes a major trading center.
  • 1884 - The Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, which had been established in 1851, is officially closed.
  • 1890 - The population of Young County reaches over 9,000 residents.
  • 1917-1918 - Young County experiences an oil boom, leading to increased population and economic growth.
  • 1940 - The Young County Historical Museum opens in Graham, preserving the county's history.
  • 1960s-1970s - Young County begins to diversify its economy with the development of manufacturing and service industries.
  • 2010 - The population of Young County is estimated to be around 18,550 residents.