Historical Marker

Colonel Black Ranch House

Historical marker location:
Fort McKavett Cemetery Rd, Ft. McKavett, Texas
( From Ft. McKavett take FM 864 to Ft. McKavett Cemetery Road for 1.3 miles.)
Marker installed: 1962
Marker size: Medallion & Plate

Headquarters - Ranch House Camilla Black Ranch, Schleicher County, Texas. Built by Col. Wm. L. Black - 1884. Heavy lumber from first hospital building in Fort McKavett.

Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1963

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.

ranching houses residential buildings
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The state flower of Texas is the bluebonnet. The flower blooms in the spring and is a common sight along the highways and in fields throughout the state.
Texas random facts
Schleicher County, located in West Central Texas, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Before the arrival of European settlers, the region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Lipan Apache and Comanche tribes.

In the mid-19th century, German immigrants began migrating to the area, including Captain Gustav Schleicher, a surveyor and politician who played a significant role in the development of the county. The county was officially established in 1887 and was named in honor of Captain Schleicher. The founding of Eldorado, the county seat, soon followed.

The economy of Schleicher County was initially based on agriculture, with cotton being the main cash crop. The arrival of the railroad in the early 20th century brought further economic growth and improved transportation in the area. However, the Great Depression greatly affected the county, causing a decline in population and economic activity.

In the mid-20th century, the oil industry became a major player in Schleicher County's economy. The discovery of oil in the Permian Basin brought new jobs and prosperity to the region. Today, Schleicher County remains an agricultural and oil-producing area, with an economy that is also dependent on hunting, ranching, and tourism.

Throughout its history, Schleicher County has witnessed significant changes, from the arrival of settlers and the establishment of the county seat to economic booms and busts. The county's rich heritage is preserved in its museums, historical sites, and the stories of its residents, offering a glimpse into the captivating history of this Texas county.

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

  • 1880 - Schleicher County is established and named after Gustav Schleicher, a Texas legislator and Confederate colonel.
  • 1882 - Eldorado becomes the county seat.
  • Late 1880s - Ranching becomes the dominant industry in the county.
  • 1890s - Schleicher County experiences population growth with settlers drawn to the area's fertile land.
  • 1920s - The oil boom leads to increased economic activity in the county.
  • Mid-1930s - The Great Depression causes a decline in the county's population and economy.
  • 1940s - Schleicher County supports the war effort during World War II.
  • 1950s - The introduction of irrigation further boosts agriculture in the county.
  • 1970s - The county's population experiences steady growth.
  • 2000s - The county's economy remains mainly dependent on ranching and agriculture.