Historical Marker
Exploration Route of Lt. James W. Abert
Historical marker location:
FM 1913 and Plum Creek Rd., Dumas, Texas
( From Dumas take SH 152 about 19.5 miles E to FM 1913. Take FM 1913 about 5.3 miles S to marker at intersection with Plum Creek Road.)
Marker installed: 1976
The United States government had the Canadian River explored in 1845, just before Texas joined the Union. Topographical engineer James W. Abert (1820-1897), a West Point graduate, had charge of a 33-man party, and spent two or more days in the vicinity of this marker. Near here he was visited by Kiowa Indians, who said that they were at war with Texans. Abert was made welcome after he proved to be an American. His map of the river and notes on geography and the Indians proved valuable to Texas and the nation.