Historical Marker

Trading Area of Jose Tafoya and other Comancheros

Marker installed: 1969
Marker size: 18" x 28"

In Quitaque area, Comancheros (peddlers in Comanche domain) from New Mexico traded flour and other goods to Indians. The Barter (begun in1700's) reached peak in 1864-1868, when Apaches, Comanches and Kiowas rustled horses and thousands of cattle "Down in Texas", to use in trades. Jose Tafoya, who had wagons as well as pack mules, sold guns to Indians until U.S. Army caught and threatened to hang him in 1874 unless he enlisted as a frontier scout. There were many other Comancheros. Tafoya is an example of one who helped rid Texas of Indian marauders. (1969)

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.

trading posts, customs stations Native American
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Briscoe County, located in the Panhandle region of Texas, has a rich and fascinating history. First inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Apache and Comanche, the county saw its first European settlers in the mid-19th century. In 1876, the county was officially established, named after Andrew Briscoe, who played a significant role in the Texas Revolution.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Briscoe County experienced a boom in cattle ranching. The arrival of the railroad in the area in the 1880s further facilitated the growth of the industry, leading to an increase in population and economic prosperity. Ranchers from all over the state flocked to Briscoe County, establishing large cattle ranches and contributing to the region's reputation as a major center of the Texas cattle industry.

The county also played a significant role in the development of the oil and gas industry in Texas. In the early 20th century, oil was discovered in Briscoe County, leading to the establishment of oil wells and the subsequent growth of towns such as Silverton. The oil boom brought new economic opportunities to the area and attracted a diverse population, including workers from other parts of Texas and beyond.

Today, Briscoe County continues to be an important agricultural center, with cattle ranching, farming, and oil and gas production as its primary industries. Its rich history, shaped by the contributions of Native Americans, cattle ranchers, and oilmen, has left a lasting legacy. The county's natural beauty, including its canyons and wide open spaces, attracts visitors who come to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Briscoe County, Texas.

  • 1860 - Briscoe County is established by the Texas legislature.
  • 1892 - Silverton becomes the county seat of Briscoe County.
  • 1902 - The Briscoe County News begins publication.
  • 1926 - The Texas Technological College Stock Farm is established in Briscoe County.
  • 1930 - Briscoe County experiences a decline in population due to the Dust Bowl.
  • 1960s - Oil and gas production becomes an important industry in Briscoe County.
  • 1980s - Briscoe County becomes known for its beef cattle industry.
  • 2000s - Wind energy development begins in Briscoe County.