Enloe Mill
Historical marker location:Site of One of Earliest Tyler County Landmarks Enloe Mill (1 mi. south) A major contributor to county and state history. Built about 1840 on Billums Creek, where the swift current made by inflow of Belts Creek would turn a water-wheel, to generate power.
Mill took name from owner Benjamin Enloe, an 1837 settler who bought this property in 1849. Enloe, his son David and grandson George were known to several generations as mill operators. From this mill came lumber for the first frame courthouse in Woodville, built in 1852 while David Enloe was county sheriff.
As people came from wide region to this mill, there grew up one of area's main roads (later known as Boone's Ferry Road), connecting Fort Teran with the Old Spanish Trail from Liberty to Nacogdoches and crossing present road at this point.
Enloe Mill, one of 27 in Tyler County by 1857, produced essentials of life for settlers: Cornmeal for their bread and lumber for erecting homes and other buildings. This mill also ginned cotton, their "money" product.
Although long known for its raw materials rather than manufactured goods, Texas gained self-reliance from early landmarks such as Enloe Mill. (1968)
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 discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum industry.
In 1837, Tyler County was officially established and named after President John Tyler. During this time, the county experienced rapid growth as settlers cleared the land for farming and ranching. Cotton became a dominant crop, and steamboats navigated the Trinity River, facilitating trade and transportation.
The Civil War brought significant changes to Tyler County, as many residents joined the Confederate Army. The economy suffered as cotton production declined, but the discovery of oil in 1893 revitalized the region. The Spindletop oil boom led to an oil rush in East Texas, including Tyler County, fueling economic growth and population expansion.
Throughout the 20th century, Tyler County continued to rely on agriculture and oil, but also embraced the forestry industry. The dense forests in the area provided vast timber reserves, leading to the establishment of lumber mills and paper mills. The county's economy thrived as timber and oil production increased, supporting a diverse range of industries.
Today, Tyler County remains a vibrant community with a mix of agriculture, oil production, and tourism. The county's natural beauty, including the picturesque Big Thicket National Preserve, attracts outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The rich history and strong sense of community make Tyler County a unique and appealing place to live or visit.
Tyler County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Tyler County, Texas.
- 1846 - Tyler County, TX was organized and named after President John Tyler.
- 1861-1865 - During the American Civil War, Tyler County joined the Confederacy.
- 1872 - The Timpson and Henderson Railroad was completed, connecting Tyler County to the railway network.
- 1907 - The East Texas Timber Company established a sawmill, leading to a boom in the timber industry.
- 1938 - Big Thicket National Preserve was established to protect the unique ecological diversity of the area.
- 1973 - The Allan B. Shivers Library and Museum was opened to honor the former Texas governor.
- 1998 - Tyler County suffered significant damage from flooding caused by Hurricane Danielle.