Historical Marker
H. N. (Man) Bell
Historical marker location:
Bastrop, Texas
( 1 mile east of Bastrop on SH 95, in Fairview Cemetery)
Marker installed: 1968
(Aug. 27, 1856 - Nov. 15, 1934)
Born in Arkansas. Began work as peace officer, 1882, during infamous "wire cutter" activities (conflict between cattlemen who favored open range and those who bought and fenced land). With two terms as sheriff, gave over 21 years continuous service to Bastrop County.
Recorded, 1968.
The first oil well in the United States was drilled in Texas in 1859. The discovery of oil transformed the economy of the state and helped to make Texas one of the wealthiest states in the nation.