Comanche County Courthouse
101 W Central Ave #103, Comanche, TexasBuilt in 1939 in Moderne architectual style by architect Wyatt C. Hedrick by contractor Tom Pate, assisted by E.E. Gage, Comanche; WPA.
3-story building with basement was constructed of native stone quarried about 6 miles west of Comanche. Carved eagles rest above the four entrances to the building.
Current status: Active Courthouse
The Texas Historical Commission's (THC) nationally recognized and award-winning Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program (THCPP) has turned around the trend of disrepair and begun restoring these treasured historic landmarks. Texas has more historic courthouses than any other state. Today more than 240 courthouses still stand that are least 50 years old. About 80 were built before the turn of the 20th century. By the end of that century, most of these structures were significantly deteriorated due to inadequate maintenance, insensitive modifications or weather related damage. The Texas Historical Commission (THC) documented the condition of 50 of the state’s oldest courthouses in the late 1990s and determined that counties lacked the resources to preserve the buildings for future generations.
The Johnson Space Center, located in Houston, played a crucial role in the development of the U.S. space program. It was here that NASA trained its astronauts and mission control teams, and it continues to be an important center for space research and exploration today.
In the early 19th century, European settlers began to explore and establish settlements in the area. In 1854, the Texas Legislature officially created Comanche County, named after the Comanche tribe. The county was initially part of the vast Erath County before being designated as an independent entity. The growth of Comanche County was primarily driven by agriculture and cattle ranching, with farmers and ranchers taking advantage of the fertile land and abundant natural resources.
The county experienced rapid development during the late 19th century with the arrival of the Texas Central Railroad in 1885. The railroad provided a crucial transportation link for the county, connecting it to larger cities and markets, which further stimulated economic growth. The population increased, and new towns, including Comanche, emerged along the railroad lines. These towns became centers for commerce, trade, and social activity.
Comanche County played a significant role in the development of Texas and the United States. It witnessed the impact of various historical events, such as the American Civil War, where many residents served in the Confederate Army. Over the years, Comanche County has evolved, adapting to changes in the agricultural, industrial, and technological sectors. Today, the county remains a vibrant community that celebrates its history while embracing modern advancements.
Comanche County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Comanche County, Texas.
- 1854 - Comanche County is established
- 1858 - Official county government is organized
- 1861-1865 - Comanche County supports the Confederacy during the Civil War
- 1875 - The county's first post office is opened
- 1877 - Comanche County is hit by a major drought
- 1881 - The Texas Central Railway is completed, boosting the county's economy
- 1890 - The town of Comanche becomes the county seat
- 1908 - Comanche County's courthouse is constructed
- 1920s - The county experiences an oil boom that brings prosperity and growth
- 1940s - Comanche County contributes to the war effort during World War II
- 1960s-1970s - The county's population declines due to economic changes
- 2010 - Comanche County's population reaches its peak