Rawlins, Capt. R. A., House
2219 Dowling St., Lancaster, TXWhen Elder Rawlins came to Texas from Greene County Illinois in December of 1844, he and his family were the first Anglo people to settle the area soon known as Hard Scrabble. Among his children was Roderick Alexander Rawlins who later married Virginia E. Bledsoe, the first school teacher in the area and member of the founding family of Lancaster, Texas.
R.A. Rawlins initially built a modest house with accompanying outbuildings including a smokehouse and stables on the land of his father's headright in the 1850s. The stables were removed in 1888 with the passing of the Katy railroad through the property. The smokehouse and a small barn still exist on the site.
The original house and grounds deteriorated while Rawlins fought in the Civil War, becoming a Captain in the Sixth Texas Cavalary, Sul Ross Brigade. Slowly rebuilding his resources after the war, Rawlins eventually began construction of the more spacious one-and-one-half-story house which still stands. Using square-cut iron nails and timber from the earlier house, the present house was begun in the summer of 1869 and completed in the summer of 1870.
A depression in the yard in front of the house was the location of the earlier Texas Central Highway, an important link between Waxahachie and Dallas. Because of its location and importance to travelers, the house became known as the "Halfway House", being the equal distance between those two important cities. The road once was also the main route of travel from the northern states into Texas and on into Mexico, as well as the route of the stagecoach line from San Antonio to Dallas.
Captain Rawlins lived in the house until his death in 1910. The house is in good condition, having been recently refinished as near to the original as possible by the present owner, Mr. Erle Rawlins of Dallas, who is the Great-Grandson of Captain Rawlins. In 1976, the Dallas Board of Realtors selected the house as the oldest in Dallas county still owned and occupied by the heirs of the original owner.
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1978.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
Established in 1846, Dallas County played a crucial role in the development of North Texas. The county's namesake, George Mifflin Dallas, was the Vice President of the United States at the time. The city of Dallas, the county seat, quickly emerged as a center for trade and commerce due to its strategic location along major transportation routes.
During the late 19th century, Dallas County experienced rapid economic growth driven by industries such as cotton, railroads, and cattle. The city of Dallas became a major hub for cotton trading, attracting business and establishing itself as a prominent financial center in the Southwest.
In the 20th century, Dallas County continued to evolve and diversify its economy. The discovery of oil in the nearby East Texas Oil Field in the early 1900s led to the development of the oil industry in the region, contributing to the county's prosperity. The county also played a significant role in the aerospace industry, hosting the headquarters of major aerospace companies and contributing to the growth of aviation technology.
Dallas County's cultural landscape reflects its vibrant and diverse population. The county is home to a wide range of cultural institutions, including museums, art galleries, theaters, and music venues. Dallas County also played a notable role in the civil rights movement, with important milestones in the fight for equality and integration.
Today, Dallas County stands as a major economic and cultural center. It boasts a robust economy supported by various industries, including finance, technology, healthcare, and telecommunications. The county is known for its thriving arts scene, professional sports teams, and diverse culinary offerings.
With its rich history, economic vitality, and cultural significance, Dallas County continues to shape North Texas as a dynamic and influential region.
Dallas County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Dallas County, Texas.
Pre-19th Century: The area was originally inhabited by various indigenous tribes, including the Caddo, Wichita, and Comanche.
1839: Dallas County was officially established and named after George Mifflin Dallas, the Vice President of the United States under President James K. Polk.
Mid-19th Century: Dallas County experienced significant growth with the establishment of Dallas as a trading post and the arrival of settlers drawn by the opportunities in trade and agriculture.
Late 1800s: The county prospered with the expansion of railroads, particularly the Texas and Pacific Railway and the Houston and Texas Central Railroad, which solidified Dallas as a major transportation hub.
Early 20th Century: Dallas County saw a surge in economic development and urbanization. Industries such as oil, cotton, banking, and manufacturing fueled the city's growth.
1960s: Dallas County gained national attention due to its role in the civil rights movement. The city of Dallas was the site of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963.
Late 20th Century: Dallas County continued to experience rapid growth and diversification, becoming a major center for business, finance, and telecommunications. The county is known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene, including the Dallas Arts District.
Today, Dallas County is the second-most populous county in Texas and home to the city of Dallas, a thriving metropolitan area.