CV Ranch and Cee Vee Community
Historical marker location:The CV cattle brand was first registered in 1850 in McLennan County by Claiborne Varner. In 1856 his brother in law, J. Wes Sheek, and Sheek's stepbrother Charles Goodnight took the CV herd westward. Sheek bought Goodnight's portion of the herd in 1869, and later moved the cattle to Cottle County. The CV Ranch was established in the northwest corner of Cottle County in the 1880s and originally contained 47,000 acres. The ranch became a large operation under various owners. By 1889 the CV Ranch was purchased by Mill Iron ranch owner Col. W. E. Hughes. The ranch house was located 65 yards west. Following Hughes' death in 1918, his granddaughter Annie C. S. Hughes divided 37,000 acres of the ranch into smaller farms and sold them in 1927-28. The community of Cee Vee developed here and contained four stores, a blacksmith, barber shop, cafes, four churches, and a cotton gin. Cee Vee Mercantile store was located on this site. A post office was granted July 4, 1928. A school was built in 1929. By 1935 about 100 families had settled in Cee Vee. However, drought, the depression, and World War II caused many people to leave the area. By the 1990s about 20 families remained. (1996)
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 is home to the world's largest bat colony. The Bracken Bat Cave, near San Antonio, is home to millions of Mexican free-tailed bats.
In the early years, Cottle County relied heavily on agriculture, with cotton becoming the main staple crop. The county's population steadily increased, and by the turn of the 20th century, it had become a thriving community. Cattle ranching also played a significant role in the county's economy, with large ranches covering vast areas of land.
However, the early 20th century brought some challenges to Cottle County. In the 1920s, a severe drought struck the region, leading to crop failures and devastating the agricultural industry. The Great Depression of the 1930s further compounded the hardships faced by the county's residents. Many people were forced to leave the area in search of better opportunities.
In the latter half of the 20th century, Cottle County saw a decline in population and economic activity. The agricultural industry underwent significant changes, with mechanization reducing the need for labor and smaller family farms struggling to survive. Today, Cottle County remains a primarily rural and sparsely populated area, with farming and ranching continuing to be key sectors of its economy. Efforts to diversify the economy through tourism and alternative energy sources are also being explored to ensure the county's future growth and prosperity.
Cottle County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Cottle County, Texas.
- 1876: Cottle County is officially established on August 21.
- 1883: The town of Paducah is surveyed and becomes the county seat.
- 1884: The first courthouse is constructed in Paducah.
- 1902: The Santa Fe Railroad extends into Cottle County, boosting its economy.
- 1928: The Texas oil boom reaches Cottle County, leading to increased oil drilling.
- 1941-1945: Cottle County residents serve in World War II.
- 1951: The Childress Air Force Base opens near Paducah, providing economic opportunities.
- 1979: The Childress Air Force Base is closed, impacting the local economy.
- 1986: The Cottle County Courthouse, the third in its history, is completed.