Cotulla Ranch
Polish immigrant Joseph Cotulla (1844-1922) came to America in 1856, traveling with his family by ship and oxcart. He worked on area ranches and registered his own brand, the BAR JF, in 1863. Joseph enlisted in the First Texas Cavalry of the Union Army and served for two years during the Civil War. He drove cattle from the Nueces River to Kansas for several years. He started an area ranch with four other men in 1869 before establishing his own ranch in 1874. Cotulla continued to buy land and amassed more than 30,000 acres in La Salle, Dimmit and Webb counties. He donated 120 acres of the ranch to the railroad in 1881 to develop a townsite, which bears his name and became La Salle county seat. The original ranch land remains in the family today. (2009)
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.
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
In the early 19th century, the area that is now La Salle County became a part of the Republic of Texas after the Texas Revolution. It was named after René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, a French explorer who had ventured through the region in the 1680s. The county was officially established in 1858, and its first county seat was Old Frio City.
The discovery of oil in the mid-20th century brought significant changes to La Salle County. The influx of oil workers and the establishment of oil fields led to a boom in the local economy and population. With the growth of the oil industry, the county seat was moved from Cotulla to Encinal in 1881, and then back to Cotulla in 1892, where it remains today.
Over the years, La Salle County has also played a significant role in the ranching industry, with large cattle ranches dominating the landscape. Today, the county is known for its oil and gas production, as well as its agricultural activities. Despite the modernization and changes, La Salle County's history and heritage are still celebrated, and its past is evident in its cultural landmarks and traditions.
La Salle County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of La Salle County, Texas.
- 1689 - French explorer, Henri Joutel, discovers La Salle County.
- 18th century - Spanish colonization of the area begins.
- 1821 - The area becomes a part of the Mexican Empire after gaining independence from Spain.
- 1836 - Texas declares independence from Mexico.
- 1848 - Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ends the Mexican-American War, and La Salle County becomes a part of the United States.
- 1858 - La Salle County is officially established.
- 1883 - The first railroad reaches La Salle County, leading to growth and development.
- 1900s - The discovery of oil and gas resources boosts the county's economy.
- 1920s - The Great Depression negatively impacts the county's economy.
- 1960s - The establishment of the Eagle Ford Shale formation leads to increased oil and gas production.
- Present - La Salle County continues to be a hub for oil and gas exploration and production.