Cottle County
Historical marker location:Created in 1876, organized in 1892, in area where the Pease and Little Wichita Rivers break level terrain. Named for George Washington Cottle (1798-1836), an 1832 settler in DeWitt's Colony, who after fighting in 1835 Battle of Gonzales entered the Alamo March 1, 1836, and died there defending Texas.
Of the 254 counties, 42 bear Indian, French or Spanish names. 10 honor such colonizers as Stephen F. Austin, "Father of Texas." 12 were named for Washington, Clay and other American patriots.
96 were named for men who fought in the Texas War for Independence (15, including Cottle, dying at the Alamo), signed the Declaration of Independence or served as statesmen in the Republic of Texas.
23 have names of frontiersmen and pioneers. 11 honor American Statesmen who worked for the annexation of Texas; 10 leaders in Texas since statehood, including jurists, ministers, educators, historians, statesman; and 36 men prominent in the Confederacy during the Civil War. 8 have geographical names. 2 were named for battles, 2 for trees, one for a fort.
Cottle is noted for fine farms and ranches, with Paducah the principal market and shipping point.
(1964)
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.
In the early years, Cottle County relied heavily on agriculture, with cotton becoming the main staple crop. The county's population steadily increased, and by the turn of the 20th century, it had become a thriving community. Cattle ranching also played a significant role in the county's economy, with large ranches covering vast areas of land.
However, the early 20th century brought some challenges to Cottle County. In the 1920s, a severe drought struck the region, leading to crop failures and devastating the agricultural industry. The Great Depression of the 1930s further compounded the hardships faced by the county's residents. Many people were forced to leave the area in search of better opportunities.
In the latter half of the 20th century, Cottle County saw a decline in population and economic activity. The agricultural industry underwent significant changes, with mechanization reducing the need for labor and smaller family farms struggling to survive. Today, Cottle County remains a primarily rural and sparsely populated area, with farming and ranching continuing to be key sectors of its economy. Efforts to diversify the economy through tourism and alternative energy sources are also being explored to ensure the county's future growth and prosperity.
Cottle County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Cottle County, Texas.
- 1876: Cottle County is officially established on August 21.
- 1883: The town of Paducah is surveyed and becomes the county seat.
- 1884: The first courthouse is constructed in Paducah.
- 1902: The Santa Fe Railroad extends into Cottle County, boosting its economy.
- 1928: The Texas oil boom reaches Cottle County, leading to increased oil drilling.
- 1941-1945: Cottle County residents serve in World War II.
- 1951: The Childress Air Force Base opens near Paducah, providing economic opportunities.
- 1979: The Childress Air Force Base is closed, impacting the local economy.
- 1986: The Cottle County Courthouse, the third in its history, is completed.