Graydon
Historical marker location:The farming community of Graydon flourished along the west fork of Double Bayou at the turn of the century. Benjamin F. Sterling (1831-1917), one of the earliest settlers in the area, brought his family here in 1869. He is credited with starting a school as early as 1877. A one-room schoolhouse was erected in 1893 on land provided by Jacob Carl Johnson. In 1895 Sterling opened a post office in his general store and named it "Graydon" for his grandson. His son Ross Sterling (1874-1949)a native of Graydon, served as governor of Texas, 1931-33.
In the late 1890s, real estate developers divided much of this fertile area into small farms to sell to families in the north and east. Rice, vegetables, and other crops were sent by boat down Double Bayou, the community's principal transportation artery, and across the bay to Galveston.
Marion Stines (1850-1916) became postmaster in 1912 and moved the post office to his store. The second Graydon schoolhouse, built in 1915 on land given by George Banks was the site of worship services and social events.
Graydon's population declined because of reverses in the farm economy, destructive hurricanes, and the rise of motor travel which isolated the community. the post office closed in 1919 and the school in 1935
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.
Texas is a state of mind. Texas is an obsession. Above all, Texas is a nation in every sense of the word.
In 1824, Thomas Jefferson Chambers, a lawyer and land speculator, was granted a colonization contract for the area, which later became known as Chambers County. He established a settlement called Anahuac, which quickly grew into a thriving port town. However, tensions between American settlers and the Mexican government eventually led to the Anahuac Disturbances in 1832, a series of conflicts over local issues such as trade regulations and land titles.
During the Texas Revolution in 1836, Chambers County played a significant role. The Battle of Anahuac took place in May of that year, with Texian rebels successfully capturing the Mexican garrison and securing control of the region. After Texas gained independence, Chambers County became part of the Republic of Texas in 1836.
Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Chambers County's economy was heavily dependent on agriculture, with cotton and rice being the primary crops. The discovery of oil and natural gas in the early 20th century brought a new wave of economic growth to the region. The establishment of several petrochemical plants contributed to the county's industrial development, transforming it into an important hub for the oil and gas industry.
Today, Chambers County continues to evolve and thrive. It is renowned for its natural beauty and offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching. The county's historical significance, coupled with its economic growth, makes it an attractive place to live and visit in Southeast Texas.
Chambers County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Chambers County, Texas.
- 1830s - Native American tribes such as the Karankawa and Atakapa are present in the area.
- 1822 - The Mexican government establishes the Municipality of Atascosito, which includes present-day Chambers County.
- 1835-1836 - The Texas Revolution takes place, leading to Texas gaining its independence from Mexico.
- 1836 - Chambers County is officially founded and named after Thomas Jefferson Chambers, a landowner and early settler in the area.
- 1840 - The town of Anahuac becomes the county seat of Chambers County.
- 1850s - Rice becomes an important crop in the county, leading to economic growth.
- 1861-1865 - Chambers County residents participate in the American Civil War, with many serving in the Confederate Army.
- 1875 - The Galveston, Houston, and Henderson Railroad is completed, boosting trade and transportation in the county.
- 1900 - The devastating Galveston Hurricane causes significant damage to Chambers County.
- 1901 - The Spindletop oil strike in nearby Beaumont leads to an oil boom in Chambers County.
- 1933 - The completion of the Intracoastal Waterway greatly benefits the county's shipping and trade industries.
- 1943-1945 - During World War II, the county hosts the Chambers County Airport, which serves as a training base for the United States Army Air Forces.
- 1957 - Chambers County becomes home to the Chambers County Nuclear Power Plant, which operates until 1974.
- 2005 - Chambers County is impacted by Hurricane Rita and experiences significant damage.