Near Site of Lodi Ferry
Historical marker location:European settlement of this area dates to the early 18th century with the establishment of missions in San Antonio, and missions herdsmen used this area as grazing land for livestock. Until the late 19th century, traveleres in this county crossed the San Antonio River at natural fords, with no bridges or other means to traverse the stream. In 1871, the Wilson County Commissioners Court declared the need for a ferry and decided to grant any potential ferryman a waiver of licensing fees for the first five years, as well as the ability to charge the highest fee allowable by state law.
Nemencio de la Zerda, II owned land along the river near the mouth of Chiver Creek. He started a ferry operation on the east bank of the river at the community of Lodi, about one mile north of Floresville's center. De la Zerda, a Confederate veteran and area native, was active in his community, serving as Lodi's justice of the peace, as well as county sheriff and tax collector. Family tradition holds that near his boat he hung a bell that travelers would ring when they wanted to cross. The community of Lodi developed along the Old San Antonio-La Bahia Road, which brought a steady flow of commerce to the area, and the ferry provided a way for traders to haul their wares across the river.
The de la Zerda family sold the ferry business in 1877 to W.W. Payne, and it later passed to Vicente J. Carvajal. In 1886, the county built a free bridge nearby across the river, and over time, travelers ceased using the ferry that had once provided local residents and travelers vital transportation access. (2006)
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 the early 1800s, the region that is now Wilson County was part of the DeWitt Colony, a settlement established by Green DeWitt. The area played a crucial role in the Texas Revolution, with the Battle of Refugio taking place nearby in 1836. As the conflict between Texas colonists and Mexican forces raged on, the region became a hotbed of activity and witnessed significant military actions.
Wilson County was officially established in 1860, named in honor of James Charles Wilson, a Texas state legislator who fought in the battle of San Jacinto. The county experienced rapid growth in the 19th century due to the establishment of ranching and farming communities. Cattle ranching became a prominent industry, and the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further boosted economic development.
The county faced challenges in the 20th century, including the Great Depression, which resulted in a decline in agricultural productivity. However, the discovery of oil and gas reserves brought renewed economic prosperity to the area. Today, Wilson County is known for its diverse economy, which includes agriculture, oil and gas production, and manufacturing. The region has preserved much of its historical heritage and continues to celebrate its unique cultural and historical significance.
Wilson County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Wilson County, Texas.
- February 13, 1854 - Wilson County established by the Texas legislature
- 1856 - County seat established in Floresville
- Late 1800s - Growth in agriculture sector, primarily cotton farming
- 1902 - Construction of the Wilson County Courthouse completed
- 1930s - Economic decline due to the Great Depression
- 1940s - World War II leads to increased military presence in the area
- Mid-1960s - Oil and gas production becomes a significant industry
- 1970s - Growth in population and expansion of Floresville
- 1998 - The Floresville Peanut Festival established
- 2010 - Rapid population growth and increased development