Buffalo Springs, C.S.A.
Historical marker location:On line of sentry forts along Red River and far frontiers of North Texas, 1861-1865. Used at intervals by cavalry, especially at such times as 1864 massing of 3,000 federals to the north, in Indian territory. Soldiers here saw little of war's glory, had large share of fighting and shortages of guns, ammunition, food, clothing and horses. Site of "forting up" of families wishing to stay, with goods and stock, near frontier homes; lived in picket houses in fortified square, placing guards on water or wood gathering parties; in 1862 left during water famine.
(1965)
April 12, 1861: The Civil War begins with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, located in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor.
April 15, 1861: President Abraham Lincoln issues a call for 75,000 volunteers to serve in the Union Army to suppress the rebellion.
May 24, 1861: The first major land battle, known as the First Battle of Bull Run (or First Battle of Manassas), takes place in Virginia. It ends in Confederate victory.
September 17, 1862: The Battle of Antietam in Maryland becomes the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Union forces, commanded by General George McClellan, manage to halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into Union territory.
January 1, 1863: President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories are to be set free. However, the proclamation does not immediately free all slaves in the United States.
July 1-3, 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania takes place, resulting in a significant Union victory and inflicting heavy casualties on Confederate forces. It marks a turning point in the war.
November 19, 1863: President Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and the preservation of the Union.
April 9, 1865: General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.
April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.
May 10, 1865: Confederate President Jefferson Davis is captured, signaling the collapse of the Confederate government.
December 6, 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery throughout the country.
While this timeline provides an overview of key events, it is important to note that the Civil War spanned over four years, from 1861 to 1865, and encompassed numerous battles, campaigns, and political developments that shaped the course of American history.
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.
The state of Texas was once an independent country known as the Republic of Texas. It gained independence from Mexico in 1836 and was a separate nation until it was annexed by the United States in 1845.
In 1857, Clay County was officially established, named after Henry Clay, a prominent American statesman. The county seat, Henrietta, was founded in 1859 and quickly became a center for trade and commerce in the region. Throughout the 1860s, the county experienced growth as more settlers arrived, and the first courthouse was built in 1868.
The late 19th century was a period of development for Clay County, as the arrival of the Texas and Pacific Railway in the 1880s brought increased connectivity and access to markets. Agriculture, especially cattle ranching, became a key industry, with vast herds grazing on the open prairies. Oil was discovered in the early 20th century, leading to a boom in the county's economy, and the population surged.
Over the years, Clay County has maintained its agricultural roots while also diversifying its economy. Today, the county is known for its ranching, farming, and oil production industries. The historical charm of Henrietta has been preserved, with its downtown area listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Clay County's history is a testament to the enduring spirit of the people who have made it their home and the ongoing growth and development of this vibrant community.
Clay County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Clay County, Texas.
- 1857 - Clay County is created from Cooke County by the Texas legislature.
- 1871 - Henrietta becomes the county seat.
- 1872 - Clay County experiences growth with the arrival of the Fort Worth and Denver City Railway.
- 1882 - A courthouse fire destroys most of the county's early records.
- 1890 - The population of Clay County reaches its peak at around 9,000 residents.
- 1924 - The discovery of oil leads to an economic boom in the county.
- 1930s - The Great Depression affects Clay County, resulting in a decline in population.
- 1965 - Lake Arrowhead, a reservoir, is completed in Clay County.
- 1987 - The Henrietta courthouse is added to the National Register of Historic Places.