Camp Cureton, C.S.A.

Historical marker location:
Archer City, Texas
( Courthouse lawn, Highway 79, Center Street, Archer City.)
Marker installed: 1963
Marker size: Civil War Memorials - (pink granite)

Marker
© OpenStreetMap contributors

Star and Wreath

Strategically established during Civil War on defense line Red River to Rio Grande where Gainesville-Fort Belknap Road crossed west fork Trinity River about 10 miles south, 4 miles east of Archer City. Texas Frontier Regiment patrolled area frequently to check Comanche raids. Poorly fed, lacking horses and ammunition, these rugged Confederates more effectively curbed Indians than U.S. had, protected supply trains, guarded against Union action. Named for Capt. Jack Cureton, Camp Commander, veteran Mexican, Indian Wars.

A Memorial to Texans who served the Confederacy; Erected by the State of Texas 1963

  A brief timeline of the Civil War
  • April 12, 1861: The Civil War begins with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, located in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor.

  • April 15, 1861: President Abraham Lincoln issues a call for 75,000 volunteers to serve in the Union Army to suppress the rebellion.

  • May 24, 1861: The first major land battle, known as the First Battle of Bull Run (or First Battle of Manassas), takes place in Virginia. It ends in Confederate victory.

  • September 17, 1862: The Battle of Antietam in Maryland becomes the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Union forces, commanded by General George McClellan, manage to halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into Union territory.

  • January 1, 1863: President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories are to be set free. However, the proclamation does not immediately free all slaves in the United States.

  • July 1-3, 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania takes place, resulting in a significant Union victory and inflicting heavy casualties on Confederate forces. It marks a turning point in the war.

  • November 19, 1863: President Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and the preservation of the Union.

  • April 9, 1865: General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.

  • April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.

  • May 10, 1865: Confederate President Jefferson Davis is captured, signaling the collapse of the Confederate government.

  • December 6, 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery throughout the country.

While this timeline provides an overview of key events, it is important to note that the Civil War spanned over four years, from 1861 to 1865, and encompassed numerous battles, campaigns, and political developments that shaped the course of American history.

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.

Loading...
Searching for other points of interest within 3 miles of this location.
The cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Archer County, located in northern Texas, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The area was originally home to various Native American tribes, including the Comanche and Wichita. Spanish explorers began to venture into the region in the 18th century, followed by American settlers in the 19th century.

The county was officially established in 1858 and named after Branch Tanner Archer, a Texas commissioner to the United States. During the mid-1800s, the region became a hotspot for ranching and cattle drives, with several cattle trails passing through Archer County, such as the Chisholm Trail and the Western Trail. This era contributed to the growth of small towns and the development of the agriculture industry.

In the late 1800s, the discovery of oil fields in the region brought significant economic growth and prosperity to Archer County. Oil wells were drilled, and industries related to the oil business, such as refineries, were established. The oil boom transformed Archer County from a primarily agricultural area into a thriving petroleum hub.

Throughout the 20th century, Archer County experienced ups and downs in its economic growth, with fluctuations in the oil industry affecting the local economy. However, the county has maintained its rural character and has continued to be a hub for agriculture, ranching, and oil production. Today, Archer County is known for its picturesque landscapes, small towns, and historical sites that showcase its vibrant past.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Archer County, Texas.

  • 1800s: Archer County originally inhabited by various Native American tribes.
  • 1874: Archer County officially established and named after Branch Tanner Archer, a Texas statesman.
  • Late 1800s: Ranching and farming become the primary economic activities in Archer County.
  • 1886: The Wichita Falls and Northwestern Railway reaches Archer City, the county seat.
  • 1890s: Oil is discovered in Archer County, leading to the growth of the petroleum industry.
  • 1919: Archer County experiences a population boom due to the oil boom in the region.
  • 1926: The discovery of the Electra oilfield in Archer County leads to increased oil extraction and economic prosperity.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression negatively impacts Archer County as oil prices plummet and businesses suffer.
  • 1950s: Archer County experiences another oil boom, bringing economic growth and development.
  • 1970s: Agriculture continues to be a significant contributor to Archer County's economy, with cattle and wheat production flourishing.
  • 2000s: Archer County's economy diversifies with the growth of healthcare, education, and other service sectors.
  • Present: Archer County remains a rural community with a mixture of oil and agriculture as key industries, while also supporting tourism and outdoor recreational activities.