Historical Marker

Site of Crosby's Landing

Marker installed: 2000
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Thomas Phillip Crosby (1799-1860) came to Texas from New York in 1830. After surveying sections of land along the Colorado River in 1830, he settled on this tract along the Brazos River with an eye toward building a landing for lower Brazos River plantation owners. He knew that a site on the water itself was crucial to the success of the business venture he had in mind. Wounded in the Battle of Velasco (1832), Thomas returned home to establish his docks, shipping and receiving goods for local landowners from such places as Galveston and New Orleans.

Mary Austin Holley referred to Crosby's Landing in an 1835 journal entry written during the first of her three visits to Texas. When Stephen F. Austin died in 1836 his body was carried by the steamboat Yellowstone to Crosby's Landing and delivered to his brother-in-law's Peach Point plantation for burial. Though he already was providing postal service, Crosby's post office was officially approved by the Republic of Texas government in 1836.

Also on the landing site were a general store and, by virtue of the post office location, a voting precinct and tax collection place. Thomas Phillip Crosby was elected sheriff of Brazoria County in 1860, but died before taking office. After his death, Crosby's son and grandson in turn served as postmaster. Among those served by Crosby's landing were Peach Point plantation, the Jack plantation, and the Abner Jackson plantation. The Crosby family also operated one of four ferries that crossed the Brazos in Brazoria County, connecting plantations on both sides of the river. Although most of the 1,000 acres owned by Thomas Phillip Crosby were sold over the years, the Crosby's landing site remained in the Crosby family at the turn of the 21st century. (2000)

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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Brazoria County, located in southeastern Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various indigenous tribes, including the Karankawa and the Atakapan, who thrived along the Gulf Coast. European exploration of the region began in the 16th century, with Spanish explorers venturing into the area. However, it was not until the 1820s that significant permanent settlements were established.

In 1822, Stephen F. Austin brought the first American colonists to the region, leading to the establishment of the Austin Colony. The county was officially organized in 1832 and was named after the Brazos River, which borders the county to the north. The economy of Brazoria County in the early years was predominantly agricultural, with cotton becoming a major cash crop and sugar production gaining prominence. Slavery played a significant role in the county’s economy, with many enslaved people working on the plantations.

During the Texas Revolution in the 1830s, the area witnessed several historical events. Significantly, Velasco, a small community in Brazoria County, served as the site of the Battle of Velasco, where Texan rebels clashed with Mexican troops in June 1832. The county also provided numerous soldiers to the Texas Army, with several residents playing important roles in the fight for Texas independence.

In the following years, Brazoria County experienced growth and development, with several towns and communities emerging. In the late 19th century, railways expanded through the county, further boosting its economic prospects. The discovery of oil and gas reserves in the early 20th century brought even greater prosperity to the area. Today, Brazoria County continues to thrive economically, with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, petrochemicals, manufacturing, and tourism.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Brazoria County, Texas.

  • 1822 - Stephen Austin received the first land grant in the area that would become Brazoria County.
  • 1832 - Brazoria County was officially established as a municipality of Mexico.
  • 1836 - Texas gained independence from Mexico, and Brazoria County became part of the Republic of Texas.
  • 1837 - The county seat was moved from Velasco to Brazoria.
  • 1839 - The county seat was once again relocated, this time to Columbia.
  • 1842 - Brazoria County was split, and part of it became Fort Bend County under the Republic of Texas.
  • 1846 - Texas was admitted to the United States, and Brazoria County became a county in the state of Texas.
  • 1892 - The county seat was moved from Columbia to Angleton, where it remains today.
  • 1943 - Construction of the Dow Chemical Company plant began, making it a major employer and industry in the county.
  • 1961 - Brazosport College was established in Brazoria County.
  • 2019 - Brazoria County celebrates its rich history and continues to thrive as an important region in Texas.