Historical Marker

Town of Fashing

Historical marker location:
Fashing, Texas
( intersection of FM 99 and FM 2924, in front of Fashing School)
Marker installed: 1968
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Near the Old San Patricio Trail, leading from San Antonio to McMullen and McGloin colony, in area of Gulf of Mexico. In this vicinity were stage stops at Belle Branch, Rock Spring, Rountree's, and Tordilla. Land was part of the Butler, Hickok, Tom and Rountree ranches. Town was platted in 1915 as "Hickok." However, after the U.S. Post Office Department disapproved that name, the tag on a popular tobacco -- "Fashion" -- inspired adoption of the name "Fashing" for the town.

First schoolhouse was built in 1917; a second, 1921. The Methodist church, organized 1922, erected first house of worship (building moved in from Bastrop) in 1925. In 1934, St. Elizabeth Catholic Church was built. The Martin Luther Lutheran Church was erected 1948. Present school building was completed in 1952.

A center for mineral development. First local oil production was from Weigang Field, 1946. Tordilla Hill (5 mi. N) was site of first major uranium discovery in Texas in 1954. After further petroleum strikes in Fashing Edwards Limestone Field, 1958, gas and sulfur processing plants were built by the Elcor Chemical Co., Lone Star Producing Co., Sinclair Oil and Gas Co., and Warren Petroleum Corp. Currently, the only commercial uranium operation in Texas is near here. (1968)

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.

cities and towns geology roads oil/petroleum topics
The Johnson Space Center, located in Houston, played a crucial role in the development of the U.S. space program. It was here that NASA trained its astronauts and mission control teams, and it continues to be an important center for space research and exploration today.
Texas random facts
Atascosa County, located in south-central Texas, has a rich and diverse history spanning hundreds of years. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Coahuiltecan and Lipan Apache. Spanish explorers arrived in the 18th century, with the area eventually becoming part of the San Antonio de Béxar (San Antonio) Spanish colonial outpost.

In the early 19th century, the region experienced a migration of American settlers. Atascosa County, named after the Atascosa River that flows through it, was officially established in 1856. The county played a significant role in the Texas Revolution, with several battles fought in the area. The region's fertile land attracted farmers and ranchers, leading to the growth of the agricultural industry. Cattle ranching soon became a dominant economic activity, and the county became known for its large cattle drives and sprawling ranches.

During the Civil War, Atascosa County sided with the Confederacy, and the conflict brought some challenges to the area. However, after the war, the county experienced a period of growth and development. Railroads were constructed, connecting the county to larger markets, and the establishment of towns and communities brought further prosperity.

In the 20th century, Atascosa County continued to thrive economically, primarily due to agriculture, particularly cotton and corn farming. Oil and gas exploration also became significant industries in the region. The growth of cities such as Pleasanton and Jourdanton brought increased infrastructure and amenities to the area. Today, Atascosa County is an important part of the South Texas economy, contributing to agriculture, oil and gas, and tourism. Its history and heritage are celebrated through various cultural events and historical landmarks.

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

  • 1856 - Atascosa County is officially established by the Texas state legislature.
  • 1872 - The county's first courthouse is built in Pleasanton.
  • 1881 - The San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway is completed, bringing a significant boost to the county's economy.
  • 1890 - Tornadoes cause extensive damage in the county, leading to rebuilding efforts.
  • 1898 - The county's second courthouse is constructed, replacing the original one.
  • 1908 - The discovery of oil in the county leads to an oil boom, bringing economic prosperity.
  • 1920s - Atascosa County experiences a decline in agriculture due to the boll weevil infestation.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression leads to economic hardships in the county.
  • 1940s - World War II brings changes to the county, including the establishment of a military training base.
  • 1960s - Construction of Interstate 37 brings improved transportation infrastructure to the county.
  • 1970s - Atascosa County's population starts to grow significantly, leading to increased development.
  • 1990s - The county experiences further population growth and urbanization.
  • 2005 - Hurricane Emily causes widespread damage in the county.
  • Present - Atascosa County continues to be a mix of rural and urban communities, with a diverse economy.