Historical Marker

O. W. Parker Ranch Headquarters

Historical marker location:
Iraan, Texas
( 2 miles east of Iraan on US 190, then 2 miles north on CR 310)
Marker installed: 1994
Marker size: Medallion and Plate

O. W. Parker (1876-1962) moved to Crockett County in 1902 and worked for local ranchers until he eventually established his own ranch. Parker had this house built for his family after the 1926 Yates oil field discovery brought prosperity to the region. Completed in 1930, it is a fine example of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. The property was also known for its orchards and gardens, tended by O. W.'s wife, Mildred (d. 1970).

Recorded Texas Historic Landmark-1994

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.

Colonial Revival (architectural style) ranching houses residential buildings design and construction
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
Texas was once a part of Mexico but gained independence in 1836 after a famous battle at the Alamo.
Texas random facts
Crockett County, located in the heart of West Texas, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. The area was first inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Apache, Comanche, and Lipan Apache, who relied on the abundant wildlife and natural resources for their sustenance.

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.

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