Historical Marker

Burleson County

Historical marker location:
Caldwell, Texas
( Courthouse Square Echols @ Buck St., Caldwell)
Marker installed: 1936
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In rich Brazos River basin; had settlers early as 1825. Site in 1830 of Tenoxtitlan, one of 3 forts built by Mexico in Texas, situated above El Camino Real (The King's Highway) crossing on Brazos River. North of the road was Sterling Robertson's Colony; south, the colony of Stephen F. Austin.

In 1840 on the Old Road, Civil Engineer George B. Erath (1813-1891) platted town of Caldwell, named for noted Indian fighter Mathew ("Old Paint") Caldwell. In 1846, Erath introduced in First Legislature of State of Texas a bill creating Burleson County out of land then in Milam and Washington counties. It was named for Gen. Edward Burleson (1793-1851), under whom many local men had fought in the Texas War for Independence and in Indian Wars. Gen. Burleson was a congressman, senator and vice president of the Republic of Texas; also was in first State Senate.

Plantation system prevailed until Civil War (1861-1865). Burleson lost some area when Lee County was created in 1874. In 1880 the Gulf, Colorado & Santa Fe Railway built into county; soon afterward, Houston & Texas Central added more rail mileage.

This is fourth courthouse for county. Economy is based on farming, oil, and miscellaneous products.

(1970)

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.

counties
Texas: A land where men were men and the men that weren’t wished they were
America Dorty in The Brisket Book
Burleson County, Texas has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s when it was established as part of Stephen F. Austin's colony. The area was initially settled by farmers and ranchers, attracted by the fertile land along the rivers, including the Brazos River. Burleson County was officially formed in 1846 and named after Edward Burleson, a hero of the Texas Revolution.

During the Civil War, Burleson County saw its fair share of turmoil. Many of its residents enlisted in the Confederate Army, while others supported the Union. The county was occupied by Union troops for a short period, which caused further division among its residents.

In the late 19th century, the county experienced an economic boom with the expansion of the railroad. The arrival of the Houston and Texas Central Railway in the 1870s brought new opportunities for trade and commerce. Several communities, such as Caldwell and Snook, were established along the railroad routes and became important shipping centers for agricultural products.

Agriculture remained the backbone of the county's economy throughout the 20th century. Cotton, corn, and livestock farming were the mainstay of Burleson County's agricultural industry. The county also experienced growth in oil and gas production during the mid-20th century. In recent years, the county has diversified its economy with the growth of manufacturing and services sectors.

Today, Burleson County is a thriving community with a blend of rural charm and economic development. Its rich history is celebrated through various events and festivals, such as the Burleson County Czech Heritage Festival and the Caldwell Kolache Festival. The county's natural beauty, historic landmarks, and vibrant community make it a desirable place to live, work, and visit.

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

  • 1841 - Burleson County is established as a part of the Republic of Texas
  • 1851 - The county seat is established in Caldwell
  • 1861-1865 - Burleson County residents actively participate in the American Civil War
  • 1870s - The county experiences growth with the arrival of the Houston and Texas Central Railroad
  • 1881 - A fire destroys many buildings in Caldwell
  • 1903 - The Texas A&M Southwest Experiment Station is established in Burleson County
  • 1930s - The Great Depression brings economic hardship to the county
  • 1940 - Oil and gas discoveries bring some economic relief to Burleson County
  • 1976 - The Burleson County Historical Society is formed
  • 1990 - The population of Burleson County reaches its peak at over 21,000 residents
  • 2000s - The county continues to focus on agricultural and oil industries while experiencing some population growth