Hardeman County

Historical marker location:
US 287, Quanah, Texas
( Quanah Garden Club Park, US 287 (11th Street) between Combs and Hughes)
Marker installed: 1936
Marker size: 1936 Texas Centennial highway marker

Created February 1, 1858, Recreated August 21, 1876, Organized December 30,

1884, Named in honor of Bailey Hardeman, 1785-1836, signer of the Texas

Declaration of Independence, and Thomas Jones Hardeman, 1788-1854 member of the

Texas Congress and Legislature. County seat, Margarette, 1884-1890, Quanah,

since, in honor of Quahan Parker, a Comanche Chief

  A brief timeline of the Texas Revolution
  • 1821: Mexico gains independence from Spain, and Texas becomes a part of the Mexican territory.

  • 1824: The Mexican government establishes a constitution, known as the Mexican Federal Constitution of 1824, which grants certain rights to the Mexican states, including Texas.

  • 1826: The Fredonian Rebellion occurs when Haden Edwards, an empresario (land agent), declares the independence of the Republic of Fredonia in East Texas. The rebellion is quickly suppressed by Mexican authorities.

  • 1830: The Mexican government passes the Law of April 6, 1830, which imposes several restrictions on American immigration to Texas and increases Mexican control over the region. This leads to growing tensions between Mexican authorities and the Anglo-American settlers.

  • 1832: The Battle of Velasco takes place between Texian settlers and Mexican forces near the town of Velasco. The Texians win the battle, which marks one of the early armed conflicts in the region.

  • 1835: The Texas Revolution officially begins with the Battle of Gonzales. Texian rebels refuse to surrender a cannon, and Mexican troops are sent to retrieve it. However, the Texians successfully defend the cannon, which has a flag with the words "Come and Take It" painted on it.

  • October 1835: Texian forces capture the Mexican garrison at Goliad, marking a significant victory for the revolutionaries.

  • November 1835: The Consultation, a provisional government, is established by the Texian rebels. They declare loyalty to Mexico while seeking a restoration of the Mexican Constitution of 1824 and the removal of Mexican President Antonio López de Santa Anna.

  • December 1835: Texian rebels, under the command of Ben Milam, capture San Antonio de Béxar after a 13-day siege. Mexican forces under General Martín Perfecto de Cos surrender, giving the Texians control of the city.

  • March 1836: The Texian garrison at the Alamo, in San Antonio, is besieged by a large Mexican force under General Santa Anna. The battle lasts for 13 days, and despite fierce resistance, the defenders are overwhelmed, and all are killed.

  • March 2, 1836: The Texas Declaration of Independence is adopted at the Convention of 1836, held at Washington-on-the-Brazos. Texas declares itself as an independent republic.

  • March 27, 1836: The Goliad Massacre takes place when General Santa Anna orders the execution of around 350 Texian prisoners of war at Goliad.

  • April 21, 1836: The Battle of San Jacinto occurs near the present-day city of Houston. Led by General Sam Houston, the Texian army defeats the Mexican forces, capturing Santa Anna himself. The battle lasts only 18 minutes and is a decisive victory for the Texians.

  • May 14, 1836: The Treaties of Velasco are signed, officially ending the Texas Revolution. Santa Anna, as a prisoner, signs the treaties recognizing Texas as an independent republic and agreeing to withdraw Mexican troops from the region.

  • October 22, 1836: Sam Houston is inaugurated as the first President of the Republic of Texas.

This timeline provides a general overview of the major events during the Texas Revolution, but it is important to note that there were numerous smaller engagements and political developments throughout the conflict.

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.

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The first oil well in the United States was drilled in Texas in 1859. The discovery of oil transformed the economy of the state and helped to make Texas one of the wealthiest states in the nation.
Hardeman County, Texas has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the mid-19th century. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Kiowa, Comanche, and Tonkawa. However, the county was officially established in 1858 and named after Bailey Hardeman, a prominent Texas politician.

During the late 1800s, Hardeman County experienced significant growth and development. Settlers began to arrive in the area, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for farming and ranching. The town of Quanah emerged as the county seat and quickly became a hub of economic activity.

The county played a significant role in the Texas cattle industry. Ranchers established large cattle ranches, and the famous 6666 Ranch, owned by Samuel Burk Burnett, became one of the most renowned in the area. The cattle industry thrived until the late 1800s when severe droughts devastated the region. Many ranchers were forced to sell their land or move their herds elsewhere.

In the early 1900s, oil was discovered in nearby Wichita County, leading to an economic boom in Hardeman County. The town of Quanah became a major center for oil production, attracting oil companies and workers from all over the country. This oil boom brought prosperity to the county, and many businesses and infrastructure were developed during this time.

Throughout the 20th century, Hardeman County experienced ups and downs, with periods of economic growth and challenges. The agriculture industry, including ranching and cotton farming, has remained an important part of the county's economy. Today, Hardeman County is known for its rural charm, historic landmarks, and strong sense of community.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Hardeman County, Texas.

  • 1858 - Hardeman County is established by the Texas state legislature.
  • 1884 - Quanah is designated as the county seat.
  • Late 1800s - Cattle ranching becomes a major industry in the county.
  • 1918-1919 - The county experiences an oil boom.
  • 1924 - Hardeman County Airport is established.
  • Mid-1900s - Agriculture becomes the primary industry in the county, with cotton and wheat being major crops.
  • 1969 - Copper Breaks State Park is opened to the public.
  • 1974 - The county courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • Late 1900s to present - Oil and gas production continue to play a significant role in the county's economy.