Historical Marker

Colonel James E. McCord

Historical marker location:
Coleman, Texas
( City Park on SH 206, north side of Coleman)
Marker installed: 1963
Marker size: Civil War Memorials - (pink granite)

1834-1914 South Carolinian. Came to Texas 1853. Surveyor of lands in this region, including the site of Camp Colorado. Texas Ranger. Prominent secessionist. Member Texas State troops at start of Civil War. Lt. Colonel of Texas Frontier Regiment established 1862. Morale was low among these rugged frontiersmen who disliked the discipline and chain of command of army life. Indians had learned the system of regular patrols between posts and slipped through to plunder. Draft evaders and deserters, another threat to peace, were flocking to the frontier and stealing from the settlers. Some Coleman County families stayed near Camp Colorado for safety. In 1863 McCord was unanimously elected colonel in command of the regiment. He operated it as Ranger unit, abolished regular patrols in favor of unexpected scouting expeditions to surprise Indian raiding parties. With these changes, the regiment's effectiveness increased. In late 1863 a new frontier defense system was initiated. McCord's Regiment was taken into Confederate service as the 46th Texas Cavalry. With the immediate threat of Union invasion from Louisiana and Arkansas, part of the 46th with McCord leading was sent to East Texas defenses, remaining until war's close. Prominent county pioneer, businessman. Buried Coleman Cemetery. (1963)

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.

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Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
Texas was once an independent country: After winning its independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas became its own country, known as the Republic of Texas. It existed as an independent nation for nine years before being annexed by the United States in 1845.
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Originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Comanche and Tonkawa, Coleman County, TX has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area began to be settled by European Americans in the mid-19th century, with the arrival of pioneers seeking fertile land and opportunities for ranching and farming.

In 1856, the Texas legislature created Coleman County, naming it after Robert M. Coleman, a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence. The county was officially organized in 1864, and the town of Santa Anna was designated as the county seat. However, the arrival of the railroad in 1886 led to the development of the town of Coleman, which ultimately became the principal city and county seat.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Coleman County experienced significant growth and prosperity. Cotton became a major cash crop, and ranching also played a crucial role in the local economy. The county's population grew, and new businesses and institutions, including schools and churches, were established.

Coleman County faced challenges as well, including periods of drought and the Great Depression of the 1930s. However, the local community persevered, and the county continued to develop over the years. Today, Coleman County remains an important agricultural and ranching center, while also embracing tourism and outdoor recreational activities as additional economic drivers. The county's rich history is commemorated through various historical sites and events, showcasing the enduring spirit of the community and its unique heritage.

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

  • 1858 - Coleman County is established by the Texas legislature.
  • 1876 - The town of Coleman is founded as the county seat.
  • 1886 - The Santa Fe Railroad reaches Coleman, boosting the local economy.
  • 1896 - Coleman County Courthouse, a significant historical landmark, is constructed.
  • 1930-1939 - The Great Depression leads to economic challenges for Coleman County.
  • 1940s-1950s - Coleman County experiences an increased interest in oil and gas exploration.
  • 1986 - The Texas Railroad Commission names Coleman County the "Texas Top Oil Producing County".
  • 1992 - A tornado causes significant damage in Coleman, resulting in the rebuilding of several structures.
  • Present - Coleman County remains a vibrant community with a mix of agriculture, oil and gas, and tourism.