Collingsworth County

Historical marker location:
Wellington, Texas
( From Wellington, take U.S. 83 about 2 miles north; marker located in grove of trees on west side of highway)
Marker installed: 1936
Marker size: 1936 Centennial - Highway Marker (pink granite)

Formed from Young and Bexar territories; Created August 21, 1876; Organized November 4, 1890; Named in Honor of James Collinsworth 1806-1838; the first Chief Justice of the Republic of Texas; Signer of the Declaration of Independence at the Battle of San Jacinto; Secretary of State in Burnet's cabinet; Wellington, The County Seat

  A brief timeline of the Texas Revolution
  • 1821: Mexico gains independence from Spain, and Texas becomes a part of the Mexican territory.

  • 1824: The Mexican government establishes a constitution, known as the Mexican Federal Constitution of 1824, which grants certain rights to the Mexican states, including Texas.

  • 1826: The Fredonian Rebellion occurs when Haden Edwards, an empresario (land agent), declares the independence of the Republic of Fredonia in East Texas. The rebellion is quickly suppressed by Mexican authorities.

  • 1830: The Mexican government passes the Law of April 6, 1830, which imposes several restrictions on American immigration to Texas and increases Mexican control over the region. This leads to growing tensions between Mexican authorities and the Anglo-American settlers.

  • 1832: The Battle of Velasco takes place between Texian settlers and Mexican forces near the town of Velasco. The Texians win the battle, which marks one of the early armed conflicts in the region.

  • 1835: The Texas Revolution officially begins with the Battle of Gonzales. Texian rebels refuse to surrender a cannon, and Mexican troops are sent to retrieve it. However, the Texians successfully defend the cannon, which has a flag with the words "Come and Take It" painted on it.

  • October 1835: Texian forces capture the Mexican garrison at Goliad, marking a significant victory for the revolutionaries.

  • November 1835: The Consultation, a provisional government, is established by the Texian rebels. They declare loyalty to Mexico while seeking a restoration of the Mexican Constitution of 1824 and the removal of Mexican President Antonio López de Santa Anna.

  • December 1835: Texian rebels, under the command of Ben Milam, capture San Antonio de Béxar after a 13-day siege. Mexican forces under General Martín Perfecto de Cos surrender, giving the Texians control of the city.

  • March 1836: The Texian garrison at the Alamo, in San Antonio, is besieged by a large Mexican force under General Santa Anna. The battle lasts for 13 days, and despite fierce resistance, the defenders are overwhelmed, and all are killed.

  • March 2, 1836: The Texas Declaration of Independence is adopted at the Convention of 1836, held at Washington-on-the-Brazos. Texas declares itself as an independent republic.

  • March 27, 1836: The Goliad Massacre takes place when General Santa Anna orders the execution of around 350 Texian prisoners of war at Goliad.

  • April 21, 1836: The Battle of San Jacinto occurs near the present-day city of Houston. Led by General Sam Houston, the Texian army defeats the Mexican forces, capturing Santa Anna himself. The battle lasts only 18 minutes and is a decisive victory for the Texians.

  • May 14, 1836: The Treaties of Velasco are signed, officially ending the Texas Revolution. Santa Anna, as a prisoner, signs the treaties recognizing Texas as an independent republic and agreeing to withdraw Mexican troops from the region.

  • October 22, 1836: Sam Houston is inaugurated as the first President of the Republic of Texas.

This timeline provides a general overview of the major events during the Texas Revolution, but it is important to note that there were numerous smaller engagements and political developments throughout the conflict.

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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The discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum industry.
Collin County, Texas, boasts a captivating history that spans generations. The region was initially home to Native American tribes before European settlers arrived. In the mid-1800s, as pioneers and immigrants ventured into the area, Collin County experienced remarkable growth and development.

Established in 1846, Collin County derived its name from Collin McKinney, a prominent figure in early Texas history and one of the five drafters of the Texas Declaration of Independence. The county played a significant role in the state's development during its early years.

Throughout the 19th century, Collin County prospered due to factors like the expansion of railroads and the establishment of agricultural communities. Cotton farming became a key industry, and towns such as McKinney, the county seat, flourished with commercial and cultural activity.

In the 20th century, Collin County continued to evolve. The discovery of oil, the growth of suburban areas, and the establishment of technology companies fueled its economic development. The county transformed into a thriving and diverse region with a robust economy encompassing sectors like technology, healthcare, and finance.

Today, Collin County stands as a testament to its rich heritage. With its picturesque landscapes, historic downtowns, and vibrant communities, the county has become an attractive destination for residents and businesses alike. Collin County embraces its history while embracing the opportunities of the present, maintaining its position as a dynamic and prosperous part of the great state of Texas.

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

  • Pre-19th Century: The area that would become Collin County was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Comanche.

  • 1846: Collin County was established shortly after Texas joined the United States as the 28th state. It was named in honor of Collin McKinney, a pioneer and one of the signatories of the Texas Declaration of Independence.

  • Mid to Late 1800s: Collin County experienced rapid growth and development, primarily fueled by the arrival of European-American settlers. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, became a significant economic driver in the region.

  • 1872: The city of McKinney was named the county seat, named after Collin McKinney. It grew into a prominent center of commerce and government in Collin County.

  • Early 1900s: Collin County continued to thrive, and communities within the county flourished. The growth of railroads, such as the Texas Electric Railway, further facilitated trade and transportation in the region.

  • Late 20th Century: Collin County experienced significant suburbanization and population growth, driven by its proximity to Dallas. The county became an attractive destination for families and businesses seeking a balance between urban amenities and a suburban lifestyle.

  • 21st Century: Collin County has continued to expand and diversify economically. It has become a hub for technology, telecommunications, healthcare, and other industries. The county maintains its rich agricultural heritage while embracing modern advancements.