Cora
Historical marker location:Founded 1854, as Troy. Later renamed in honor of a Miss Beeman of Bell County. In 1856 organization of Comanche County--then extending farther south and east than today's boundaries--Cora became county seat. A log cabin residence in Cora was the first Comanche County courthouse, serving until the county seat was relocated in 1859 in new town of Comanche. That first courthouse and all the other buildings are gone from site of Old Cora. Only a cemetery--the oldest in Comanche County--remains. Thus Cora is an example of the many early, important towns no longer existent in Texas. In the 254 counties of Texas, there have been 126 cases of redesignation of county seats. (Two counties have had five county seats each.) Boundary changes (as in Comanche County), shifts in travel routes (as when railroads were built), changes from agrarian to industrial economy have caused counties to move their county seats to new locations. Old courthouses have found later usefulness as ranch headquarters, municipal buildings, or private homes. The first log cabin courthouse of Comanche County reverted to use as a residence, but later was restored and used--as are many former courthouses--as part of a museum. (1967)
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 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