National Register Listing

Withers, M. A., House

a.k.a. Mark Withers Museum

W of Lockhart on Borchert Loop Rd., Lockhart, TX
M.A. (Mark, "Merry Mark") Withers (b.23 September 1847, d. 9 June 1937) was instrumental in the expansion of the beef industry through much of the western US, encouraged early cattle markets and their related meat processing and transportation industries which ultimately terminated in northeastern markets. This activity not only opened new frontiers for settlement, but advanced the railroad industry, and colored social, political, and economic patterns. The process established the character of the westerner - a self-reliant individual who utilized independent initiative.
Local significance of the building:
Agriculture; Economics; Exploration/settlement; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

architecture houses residential buildings
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The Battle of San Jacinto fought on April 21, 1836, was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution, and led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the conflict.
Texas random facts
Caldwell County, located in central Texas, has a rich and storied history dating back thousands of years. The area was first inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa and Lipan Apache. In the 18th century, Spanish settlers began exploring and settling the region, establishing missions and ranches.

In 1834, Mexican impresario, Green DeWitt, received a land grant from the Mexican government and began attracting American settlers to the area. The town of Lockhart, named after James W. Lockhart, one of DeWitt's surveyors, was established in 1838 and became the county seat in 1848. The county was officially organized the following year.

During the Civil War, Caldwell County, like much of Texas, was divided in its loyalties. Many residents sided with the Confederacy and fought in the war, while others were Union sympathizers. The conflict left deep scars on the county, but it managed to recover and thrive in the post-war years.

Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Caldwell County's economy was primarily agricultural, with cotton being a major crop. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s boosted economic growth and allowed for easier transportation of goods. Over time, the county diversified its economy, with industries such as oil and gas, cattle ranching, and manufacturing becoming prominent.

Today, Caldwell County is known for its historic charm, scenic beauty, and a strong sense of community. It is home to several notable landmarks, including the Caldwell County Courthouse, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The county continues to evolve and adapt, while also preserving its rich history and heritage.

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

  • 1848 - The Republic of Texas holds a land lottery and grants land in the area to settlers.
  • 1849 - Caldwell County is officially established.
  • 1852 - The county seat is named Lockhart.
  • 1876 - The first courthouse in Lockhart is built.
  • 1887 - The discovery of oil in the county brings prosperity.
  • 1922 - The current Caldwell County Courthouse is constructed.
  • 1948 - The Chisholm Trail Museum is established in Lockhart.
  • 1984 - The Circuit of the Americas racetrack is built in the county.