Early Settlers of Andrews County
Historical marker location:One of last frontiers of Texas. Anglo settlement here lagged 60 years behind rest of state due to Indians and scarcity of water.
In 1886 O. B. Holt became first man to file for county land. First settlers included the Cowden brothers and Peter Von Holebeke.
In 1900 county had 87 people; it was finally organized in 1910. With windmill pumps and drift fences, ranching became feasible, although soil was so dry that a grazing cow crashed through a dugout roof into a bed one day.
In 1930 the discovery of oil brought wealth and rewarded the tenacity of first pioneers.
(1970)
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.
Texas has been a major oil-producing state for over a century. The first big oil discovery in Texas was the Spindletop field near Beaumont in 1901, which set off a massive oil boom that transformed the state's economy and made Texas one of the wealthiest states in the country.
Andrews County was officially established in 1876 and was named after Richard Andrews, the first man to die in the Texas Revolution. The discovery of oil in the Permian Basin in the early 1920s transformed Andrews County and brought about significant growth and prosperity. Oil companies flocked to the area, drilling numerous wells and establishing a booming oil industry. This led to a population boom as people from all over flocked to Andrews County in search of work and opportunities.
Throughout the years, Andrews County has continued to be heavily influenced by the oil industry. The county has seen periods of economic boom and bust as oil prices fluctuated, but oil remains a major industry in the region. In recent years, there has also been a growing focus on renewable energy, including wind power, with the establishment of several wind farms in the area.
Today, Andrews County is known for its diverse economy, blending agriculture, oil, and renewable energy industries. It remains an important part of the Permian Basin, contributing to Texas' status as one of the leading oil-producing states in the country.
Andrews County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Andrews County, Texas.
- 1800s: The area that is now Andrews County was home to various Native American tribes, including the Comanche and Apache.
- 1875: The Texas legislature formed Andrews County from parts of Bexar County, and it was named after Richard Andrews, the first man to die in the Texas Revolution.
- Late 1800s: The county witnessed its first significant European settlement, with ranchers and farmers beginning to establish homesteads.
- Early 1900s: The discovery of oil in the Permian Basin sparked a period of growth and economic development in Andrews County.
- 1929: Andrews County's first drilling rig, belonging to the Texon Oil and Land Company, began producing oil, leading to an oil boom in the region.
- 1938: Andrews County was struck by a powerful tornado that caused significant damage to the town of Andrews, resulting in several fatalities and injuries.
- Late 1900s: Oil and gas production continued to be the primary driver of the county's economy, with several major companies operating in the area.
- 1997: The county's first hazardous waste storage and disposal facility, the Andrews County LLRW Disposal Facility, began operations, bringing both jobs and controversy.
- Present: Andrews County remains a hub for oil and gas activities, with ongoing efforts to attract diversification in industries while preserving its natural resources.