Real County
Historical marker location:THE LOCATION OF REAL COUNTY LIES AT THE SOUTHERN EDGE OF THE EDWARDS PLATEAU ALONG THE BALCONES ESCARPMENT, AN AREA OF RUGGED MOUNTAINS AND CANYONS NAMED FOR THE FRIO, SABINAL AND NUECES RIVERS. THE COUNTY LINE BETWEEN EDWARDS COUNTY AND BANDERA COUNTY RAN DIRECTLY THROUGH THE CENTER OF A SETTLEMENT IN THE FRIO CANYON LATER CALLED LEAKEY. WHEN EDWARDS COUNTY ORGANIZED IN 1883, LEAKEY WAS ELECTED AS THE COUNTY SEAT. EIGHT YEARS LATER, HOWEVER, THE COUNTY SEAT WAS MOVED TO ROCKSPRINGS, FORCING THE CITIZENS OF LEAKEY TO TRAVEL GREAT DISTANCES OVER MOUNTAINS, CANYONS AND RIVERS TO FILE OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS.
IN 1895, THE CITIZENS OF THE FRIO CANYON PETITIONED THE TEXAS LEGISLATURE TO ORGANIZE A COUNTY TO BE CALLED BULAH FROM PARTS OF UVALDE, BANDERA AND EDWARDS COUNTIES BUT THE PETITION WAS REJECTED. IN 1913, A BILL WAS INTRODUCED TO CREATE A NEW COUNTY FROM PARTS OF EDWARDS, KERR AND BANDERA COUNTIES TO BE CALLED MURPHY. THE BILL PASSED ON APRIL 3, 1913 WITH AN AMENDMENT TO NAME THE COUNTY FOR RANCHER AND TEXAS STATE SENATOR JULIUS REAL. THE FIRST ELECTION WAS HELD ON JULY 26, 1913 TO ELECT COUNTY OFFICERS AND THE LOCATION OF THE COUNTY SEAT. AFTER A DISPUTED ELECTION, LEAKEY WAS DECLARED THE COUNTY SEAT AND IN 1918 A LIMESTONE COURTHOUSE INCLUDING A JAIL WAS ERECTED.
PIONEERS SUBSISTED ON FARMING AND RANCHING, AND REAL COUNTY REMAINED PRIMARILY RURAL UNTIL THE HIGHWAY SYSTEM EMERGED IN THE AREA BEGINNING IN THE 1930s. NOW COMMEMORATING THE CENTENNIAL OF ITS CREATION, REAL COUNTY BOASTS AN ECONOMY LARGELY BASED ON TOURISM, WILD GAME HUNTING AND BUSINESSES WHICH SUPPORT THESE INDUSTRIES
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.
The county was officially established in 1913, with Leakey as its county seat. Leakey was named after John H. Leakey, an early settler in the area who played a significant role in the county's development. Real County was primarily involved in agriculture, with ranching being the dominant industry. Cattle ranching and farming of crops like corn and cotton became the backbone of the county's economy.
Real County's growth and development were also shaped by the construction of the railroad in the late 1800s. The San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway brought economic opportunities to the area, allowing for easier transportation of goods and opening up new markets for local farmers and ranchers. The railway brought increased trade and commerce, contributing to the county's prosperity.
Over the years, Real County has remained mainly rural, with its population and economy centered around agriculture and tourism. Its stunning natural landscapes, including the Frio River and the hills of the Edwards Plateau, attract visitors who enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, and camping. Today, Real County continues to be a charming rural community with a rich history and a close-knit community spirit.
Real County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Real County, Texas.
- 1838 - Real County established as a part of Bexar County
- 1848 - Real County becomes a part of Kerr County
- 1913 - Real County officially established
- 1923 - Leakey becomes the county seat
- 1926 - Construction begins on Real/Frio River Dam
- 1930 - Completion of Real/Frio River Dam
- 1935 - The Civilian Conservation Corps establishes Camp Langtree
- 1960s - Construction of the Frio River Canyon Bridge
- 1990s - Introduction of eco-tourism to the area
- 2004 - The Real County Historical Commission is established