Historical Marker

The Armstrong Ranch

Historical marker location:
Sarita, Texas
( from Sarita, take US 77 S about 20 miles (private - no access))
Marker installed: 1983
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In 1852 James H. Durst, son of a leading Nacogdoches, Texas family, purchased 93,219 acres of land here, part of the "La Barreta" Spanish Land Grant. In 1878 Mary Helena "Mollie" Durst, married the noted Texas Ranger John Barkley Armstrong. Armstrong had served with Captain Leander McNelly and played a major role in bringing law and order to South Texas. He participated in the arrest of King Fisher and gained national fame for his capture of the notorious Texas outlaw John Wesley Hardin.

Armstrong moved his family to the ranch home he built here. Their close friends and neighbors were the families of Captain Richard King and Captain Mifflin Kenedy. The ranch was an important site in the area; General Zachary Taylor had camped here prior to the Mexican War and for many years the ranch served as a stop on the stage route between Corpus Christi and Brownsville. Under Armstrong's guidance, the Armstrong Ranch became one of the legendary cattle ranches of Texas. His descendants have continued the tradition of family enterprise here through the twentieth century

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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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.
Texas random facts
Kenedy County, located in the southern part of Texas, has a rich history that dates back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by indigenous tribes, such as the Karankawa and Lipan Apache, who lived off the land and relied on hunting and gathering for survival. In the 18th century, Spanish explorers and settlers began to explore the region, leaving their mark on the area's culture and architecture.

The county was officially established in 1921 and named after Mifflin Kenedy, a prominent rancher and entrepreneur who played a crucial role in the development of South Texas. With its vast open spaces and fertile soil, Kenedy County became a hub for agriculture, particularly cattle ranching. Many ambitious ranchers and entrepreneurs flocked to the region, transforming it into a thriving hub of economic activity.

During the early 20th century, oil was discovered in the area, further fueling the county's economic growth. As oil drilling and production operations expanded, Kenedy County experienced an influx of workers and businesses, leading to an increase in population and development. Today, the county's economy is driven by several industries, including oil and gas, agriculture, and tourism.

Throughout its history, Kenedy County has remained an iconic symbol of Texas' cowboy culture and frontier spirit. Its vast landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and strong ties to the ranching industry attract visitors from all over the world. The county continues to evolve and adapt to the changing times while preserving its unique history and traditions.

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

  • 1860 - Kenedy County is created from parts of Cameron and Willacy counties.
  • 1860s - The area is primarily used for ranching.
  • 1870 - The King Ranch, one of the largest ranches in the world, is established in the county.
  • 1911 - Sarita, the county seat, is founded.
  • 1921 - The St. Louis, Brownsville and Mexico Railway reaches Sarita, improving transportation in the area.
  • 1940s - The King Ranch and other ranches in the area begin to intensify oil exploration activities.
  • 1948 - Oil is discovered in the county, leading to increased economic development.
  • 1961 - U.S. President John F. Kennedy is assassinated, and the county is renamed in his honor.
  • 1970s - The economy shifts from predominantly agricultural to oil and gas production.
  • 1995 - Kenedy County becomes one of the last counties in Texas to receive its first traffic light.
  • 2010 - A wind farm is established in the county, providing renewable energy.