Camp Melvin and the Pontoon Crossing of the Pecos River
Historical marker location:As it winds its way across Texas, the Pecos River can often be swift and dangerous. Historically, frequent flooding made even the best crossings unusable. In May 1684, Spanish explorer Juan DomÃnguez de Mendoza and his expeditino team camped at a site south of here, now on private land, where they could safely cross the river. They named the location San Pantaleon. In 1840, trader Dr. Henry Connelly used the same crossing, and over the years it came to be known by various names, including Connelly's, as well as Fennelly, Camp Melvin, Camp Melbourne, Ficklin, Pecos and Pecos Mail Station.
By the 1860s, the two main routes through the region bypassed the crossing here, as other fords presented fewer obstacles or appeared more secure. The northern route's Horsehead Crossing, however, was a target for Comanche attacks, and the southern route near Fort Lancaster failed to provide a convenient connection between Forts Concho and Stockton. As a result, Capt. F.S. Dodge of Fort Stockton sought a new crossing in 1868, and he chose the one previously used by DomÃnguez and Connelly.
Designing a means to allow travelers a safe and reliable crossing of the Pecos was difficult, as the river's width often varied greatly. In partnership with stage line operator Ben Ficklin, the U.S. Army built a floating pontoon bridge near here. Landings on either bank could be moved closer or farther apart to accommodate changes in stream width. To protect travelers, the Army established Camp Melvin (Melbourne, Milvin) nearby, and a mail station also operated in the vicinity. By 1920, however, only parts of the pontoon bridge and nearby buildings remained. Increased settlement and improved transportation relegated the pontoon crossing and Camp Melvin to history. (2006)
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 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.
The arrival of European settlers in the mid-19th century brought significant changes to Crockett County. In 1852, the U.S. Army established Fort Lancaster, a strategic military outpost, which played an important role in protecting settlers and travelers along the San Antonio-El Paso Road. However, the fort was abandoned after just nine years due to constant threats from Native American tribes and a lack of vital resources.
The county itself was formed in 1875 and named in honor of Davy Crockett, the legendary frontiersman and hero of the Alamo. As more settlers arrived seeking fertile land for ranching and agriculture, the community of Ozona was established near the confluence of the Live Oak and West Bear Creeks. Ozona quickly became a hub for cattle drives, as it was located along the Goodnight-Loving Trail and later the Texas and Pacific Railway.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Crockett County experienced both prosperity and challenges. Droughts, economic downturns, and the Great Depression took their toll, but the discovery of oil in the 1920s brought a new wave of growth and opportunity. The county's booming oil industry attracted workers and entrepreneurs, leading to increased population and economic diversification.
Today, Crockett County remains a vibrant community with a diverse economy that includes ranching, agriculture, and oil production. Its history is proudly celebrated through various landmarks, museums, and events that showcase the unique heritage of this West Texas county.
Crockett County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Crockett County, Texas.
- 1875 - Crockett County officially established
- 1885 - Ozona becomes county seat
- 1891 - Crockett County Courthouse built
- 1902 - Texas and Pacific Railway arrives in Ozona
- 1925 - Crockett County Oil Field discovered
- 1940s - Sheep and goat ranching becomes a major industry
- 1980 - Crockett County Courthouse listed on the National Register of Historic Places
- 1993 - Devil's River State Natural Area established
- 2008 - Crockett County celebrates its 133rd anniversary