Old Rock Store, 1879

Historical marker location:

Junction, Texas

( Corner of 6th and College St., Junction)

Marker installed: 1964

Old Rock Store, 1879, built for general merchandise of G. W. Ragsdill, who owned and operated a nearby hotel and wagon yard.

Later used for many other businesses. The top floor has been hall for A.F.& A. M., I.O.O.F. and W.O.W. Lodges, and in 1912 a movie.

Owner: Judge M. E. Blackburn, Sr.

Recorded Texas Historic Landmark, 1964.

buildings markets, mercantiles

In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.