State Antiquities Landmark

Hamilton County Courthouse

102 N. Rice, Hamilton Texas
Significance:
Historic Structure

Jurisdiction:
County of Hamilton

State Antiquities Landmarks (SALs) are designated by the Texas Historical Commission (THC) and receive legal protection under the Antiquities Code of Texas (the Code). The Code defines all cultural resources on non-federal public lands in the State of Texas as eligible to be designated as SALs. Historic buildings and other aboveground historic resources must be listed in the National Register of Historic Places before they can be designated as SALs, but archeological sites do not have the same prerequisite.

SAL designation does not mean that sites or buildings cannot be altered or destroyed. The land-owning agency must consult with the THC about such proposed actions through the permit process, and the THC will determine whether the work will be allowed.

Buildings designated as SALs are listed in the Texas Historic Sites Atlas. However, information about designated archeological sites is not available to the general public to protect the sites from vandalism and destruction.

gravesites
The Texas Rangers, a famous law enforcement agency, were first organized in 1835 to protect settlers from Native American attacks.
Texas random facts
Hamilton County, located in central Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Comanches and Tonkawas. They relied on the region's abundant natural resources for sustenance and traded with European settlers who began arriving in the 1820s.

The county itself was formed in 1858 and named after James Hamilton Jr., a notable figure in Texas' fight for independence from Mexico. The first permanent settlement in the area was established around 1855 and became known as Hamilton, which later became the county seat. The early settlers primarily engaged in farming, ranching, and cotton production.

During the Civil War, many of Hamilton County's residents joined the Confederate Army to defend the Southern cause. The county suffered several attacks by Native American tribes aligned with the Union during the conflict. Following the war, the county gradually recovered, and the population began to grow with the introduction of new industries such as limestone quarrying and milling.

By the early 20th century, Hamilton County had become an established agricultural region, known for its cotton, corn, and cattle production. However, the Great Depression hit the area hard, causing economic decline and depopulation. In recent decades, the county has diversified its economy, incorporating sectors like manufacturing, education, and healthcare.

Today, Hamilton County is a vibrant community that combines its rich history with modern development. Visitors can explore historical landmarks, enjoy recreational activities in the surrounding natural beauty, and experience the warmth of its friendly residents. The county continues to thrive, attracting new residents and businesses while cherishing its deep-rooted heritage.

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

  • 1853: Hamilton County is created as a new county in the state of Texas.
  • 1858: The county seat is established in the town of Hamilton.
  • 1872: The Fort Worth and Rio Grande Railway is built through Hamilton County.
  • 1882: The first newspaper, called The Hamilton Herald, is published in Hamilton.
  • 1902: Hamilton County Courthouse, the current courthouse, is completed.
  • 1929: The Great Depression causes economic hardships for Hamilton County residents.
  • 1948: The town of Evant experiences a devastating tornado, resulting in multiple casualties.
  • 1956: Lake Proctor is constructed as a recreational reservoir in Hamilton County.
  • 1996: The Texas Historical Commission designates the city of Hico as a Texas Main Street community.
  • 2017: Hamilton County celebrates its 165th anniversary since its establishment.