Fort Lancaster, Ruins of
Historical marker location:Established in 1855 by the United States Government as a protection to travelers and mail on the overland route from San Antonio to San Diego. Abandoned in 1861. Reoccupied in 1868 for a short time.
1966
Established August 20, 1855. By United States Government. One half-mile above the junction of Live Oak Creek with the Pecos River in present Crockett County.
Garrisoned by U.S. Second Cavalry who protected travellers and mail on the San Antonio - El Paso Military Road.
Fort was abandoned March 18, 1861, after Texas seceded from the Union. Reoccupied by Federal troops, 1868, for a short time.
At Pecos River, just south of Hwy. 290 river bridge, is one of the most used Texas pioneer fords. Ruts made by wagon wheels sliding downhill are plainly visible.
(new marker that is now missing -1966-) behind TxDot Ozona Office on SH 163 N in scrapyard - poor, star and plate missing
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.
Texas is known for its barbecue, and one of the most famous barbecue restaurants in the state is Kreuz Market in Lockhart. The restaurant has been in operation since 1900 and is still family-owned.
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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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