Mission Nuestra Senora de la Luz del Orcoquisac and Presidio San Agustin de Ahumada
Historical marker location:Two of the most misfortune-ridden outposts of Spain in texas, "Our Lady of the Light" mission and its auxiliary fort, were founded near here in 1756 to guard against French encroachment from the east.
The two friars who were to minister to members of the Orcoquisac tribe arrived shortly after the 30 soldiers who were to man the fort. Soon, however, the elder friar died. The younger, asking to be relieved of his duties, complained vividly of biting insects, extremes of heat and cold, and the thick and stinking water in the lake near the lonely mission.
The 50 families who were to establish a town at the site never arrived, and although valiant efforts were made at improvement, conditions instead became worse. A woeful lack of training among the soldiers sparked unrest among the Indians. Meager supplies of food, clothing, and ammunition were the rule, and some commanders treated their men with great cruelty.
In 1767, an official inspector reported that due to the terrain, discord among the staff, and failure to convert the Indians, the presidio and mission should be closed. In 1771, fearing an invasion of Apaches, the authorities withdrew the personnel, and these two remote outposts of Spain were totally abandoned
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 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.
In 1824, Thomas Jefferson Chambers, a lawyer and land speculator, was granted a colonization contract for the area, which later became known as Chambers County. He established a settlement called Anahuac, which quickly grew into a thriving port town. However, tensions between American settlers and the Mexican government eventually led to the Anahuac Disturbances in 1832, a series of conflicts over local issues such as trade regulations and land titles.
During the Texas Revolution in 1836, Chambers County played a significant role. The Battle of Anahuac took place in May of that year, with Texian rebels successfully capturing the Mexican garrison and securing control of the region. After Texas gained independence, Chambers County became part of the Republic of Texas in 1836.
Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Chambers County's economy was heavily dependent on agriculture, with cotton and rice being the primary crops. The discovery of oil and natural gas in the early 20th century brought a new wave of economic growth to the region. The establishment of several petrochemical plants contributed to the county's industrial development, transforming it into an important hub for the oil and gas industry.
Today, Chambers County continues to evolve and thrive. It is renowned for its natural beauty and offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching. The county's historical significance, coupled with its economic growth, makes it an attractive place to live and visit in Southeast Texas.
Chambers County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Chambers County, Texas.
- 1830s - Native American tribes such as the Karankawa and Atakapa are present in the area.
- 1822 - The Mexican government establishes the Municipality of Atascosito, which includes present-day Chambers County.
- 1835-1836 - The Texas Revolution takes place, leading to Texas gaining its independence from Mexico.
- 1836 - Chambers County is officially founded and named after Thomas Jefferson Chambers, a landowner and early settler in the area.
- 1840 - The town of Anahuac becomes the county seat of Chambers County.
- 1850s - Rice becomes an important crop in the county, leading to economic growth.
- 1861-1865 - Chambers County residents participate in the American Civil War, with many serving in the Confederate Army.
- 1875 - The Galveston, Houston, and Henderson Railroad is completed, boosting trade and transportation in the county.
- 1900 - The devastating Galveston Hurricane causes significant damage to Chambers County.
- 1901 - The Spindletop oil strike in nearby Beaumont leads to an oil boom in Chambers County.
- 1933 - The completion of the Intracoastal Waterway greatly benefits the county's shipping and trade industries.
- 1943-1945 - During World War II, the county hosts the Chambers County Airport, which serves as a training base for the United States Army Air Forces.
- 1957 - Chambers County becomes home to the Chambers County Nuclear Power Plant, which operates until 1974.
- 2005 - Chambers County is impacted by Hurricane Rita and experiences significant damage.