Historical Marker

Megargel

Historical marker location:
Megargel, Texas
( on block bounded by 3rd St., Elm St., Cedar St./3rd Ave., and 1st St.)
Marker installed: 2003
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In 1910, thirty years after the Texas Legislature created Archer County, the Gulf, Texas & Western Railroad began extending its track from Jacksboro to Seymour. That year the trinity townsite company laid out a new town along the tracks on land purchased from the prominent Meade family. The company named the town Megargel for the rail company president, Roy C. Megargel.

Within a few months of its founding, Megargel had almost two dozen stores, a hotel, a bank and a post office. Town residents soon organized a school district, served initially by three teachers. The population continued to grow and in 1914, the Megargel Times began its run as the city paper. In 1917, Megargel residents built a new schoolhouse; the first graduating class, in 1918, consisted of five students.

A second population boom began in 1923 with the opening of the nearby Swastika oilfield. Although Megargel suffered a disastrous downtown fire in 1925, it continued to grow rapidly as a result of regional oil production. By 1926, there were approximately 350 operating wells in the vicinity. During that time, the town's first theater opened. The school district, also growing, created one of Texas' earliest high school bands in 1927.

Although the area continued to produce oil, the Great Depression and other factors caused a decline in population. During World War II, the railroad was abandoned and many residents left for military service or to work in wartime industries. Today, in addition to oil, agriculture is an important part of the economy. The Megargel Cemetery and other historic resources help preserve the link to the town's history and boom era.

(2004)

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.

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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.