Early Trails in Bee County
Historical marker location:From pack trails and wagon roads that marked this area at least 300 years, have developed such modern roads as U.S. Highway 181. The old trails of Indians, wild cattle and mustang horses formed highways for 17th, 18th and 19th century expeditions coming from Mexico to claim sovereignty for Spain over land of Texas. When pioneers established land grants in this section, they also found Indian trails useful, placing towns along them. Beeville, the county seat, was situated at the natural intersection of San Patricio-Helena Road with Goliad-Laredo Road.
About 20 miles south, the Matamoros-Goliad road ("Camino Real" to old-timbers) was probably the most historic road in this area. In the years 1861-1865 the "cotton road"--called "lifeline of the southern Confederacy"--crossed Bee County. A later route of great value was a cattle trail that channeled thousands of Longhorns from the Rio Grande to the Red River and up the Dodge City Trail or the Chisholm Trail to northern markets. In this area were also La Para (or Grapevine) Road; the Indianola-Papalote Road; and a road to now vanished St. Mary's, a port on Copano Bay, off the Gulf of Mexico. (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.
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.
In the 19th century, Bee County underwent significant changes due to the arrival of American settlers. In 1857, Bee County was officially formed and named after Colonel Barnard E. Bee, a hero of the Texas Revolution. The county began to flourish with the establishment of ranching and farming communities. The emergence of railroads in the late 1800s further boosted the area's growth, connecting Bee County to markets in nearby counties and facilitating economic development.
The discovery of oil in Bee County in the early 20th century signaled another wave of prosperity. The county experienced a boom in oil production, attracting workers and capital to the area. This development led to the growth of towns such as Beeville, the county seat, as well as significant infrastructure improvements. Agriculture, including cotton and livestock, also continued to play a crucial role in the county's economy during this period.
Today, Bee County remains a vibrant community with a diverse economy. It is known for its agricultural output, with cattle ranching, cotton farming, and vegetable cultivation being key industries. The county also benefits from the presence of the oil and gas industry, which continues to contribute to its economic stability. Bee County's rich history and natural beauty make it an attractive destination for visitors and residents alike.
Bee County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Bee County, Texas.
- 1836: Bee County is part of the newly independent Republic of Texas.
- 1837: The Texas legislature establishes Bee County as a separate county from San Patricio County.
- 1858: The county seat is moved from old Fort Ewell to the newly established village of Beeville.
- 1908: The first oil well is drilled in Bee County.
- 1930s: Oil production in Bee County booms and greatly impacts the local economy.
- 1942: Chase Field, a naval aviation training base, is established in Beeville during World War II.
- 1960s: Beeville experiences significant economic growth due to the establishment of several manufacturing plants.
- 1990: Bee County celebrates its 150th anniversary.
- 2006: The Bee County Courthouse, a historic landmark, is added to the National Register of Historic Places.