Rich Coffey House
Historical marker location:Rich Coffey (1823-1897) was a prominent pioneer and settler in the part of the state that now encompasses Runnels and Concho counties. In 1862 Coffey moved his family, cattle, and cowboys to a site near present day Ballinger. Several years later he established a settlement at the confluence of the Colorado and Concho rivers.
In addition to raising cattle, freighting, and trading in salt, Coffey served as a Coleman County commissioner, participated in the first county grand jury, and started a post office in 1879.
Jonathan Cook, an Irish stonemason, was hired to build a rock house for Coffey in 1880. The house was completed in 1881 as a one-and-a-half-story dogrun structure with exterior chimneys and a staircase in the dogrun that led to a loft. Outstanding features included the quality of the masonry construction and the particular dogrun configuration which was a form common to wooden structures in Coffey's home state of Georgia, but unusual for masonry buildings in central and west Texas.
In 1989 the Rich Coffey house was moved to this site to avoid inundation by the construction of nearby Lake Ivie. (1992)
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 first oil well in the United States was drilled in Texas in 1859. The discovery of oil transformed the economy of the state and helped to make Texas one of the wealthiest states in the nation.
In the early 1800s, Concho County was still largely unsettled, but with the establishment of the Republic of Texas in 1836, Anglo-American settlers began to arrive. This led to conflicts with the Native American tribes, culminating in the Battle of Dove Creek in 1865, when Texas Rangers and local militia fought against Comanche warriors.
By the late 19th century, Concho County's economy relied on agriculture, particularly cattle ranching and farming. The rise of the railroad in the region further facilitated trade and transportation, leading to the growth of small towns like Paint Rock and Eden. Concho County's population continued to increase steadily throughout the 20th century.
Today, Concho County is known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. With its picturesque landscapes, including the Concho River and vast grasslands, the county attracts visitors for outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, and bird-watching. The county's history is celebrated and preserved through local museums, historic buildings, and annual events, showcasing the rich heritage of the region.
Concho County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Concho County, Texas.
- 1858 - Concho County is created from parts of Bexar, Travis, and Young counties.
- 1875 - First post office is established in Concho County.
- 1882 - The town of Paint Rock is founded.
- 1886 - The town of Eden is established.
- 1889 - The town of Eola is founded.
- 1889 - The town of Millersview is established.
- 1889 - A public water system is installed in Concho County.
- 1890 - The town of Lowake is founded.
- 1892 - The town of Arden is established.
- 1895 - Oil is discovered in Concho County, leading to increased development.
- 1910 - Concho County has a population of over 5,000.
- 1936 - Concho County courthouse is built.
- 1941 - Paint Rock ISD is created.
- 1960s - Concho County experiences a decline in population due to agricultural changes.
- 1995 - The Devil's Sinkhole State Natural Area is established in Concho County.