Historical Marker

Chisholm Trail in Denton County

Historical marker location:
Sanger, Texas
( 7.9 miles west of IH-35 at Sanger on FM 455. See attached marker location map on FM455. Marker to be placed on north side of road, facing road. The Chisholm Trail crossed Western Denton County in this northwest section of the county. This site would have included the Forester Ranch, whose land would have been part of this marker site in the era of the Chisholm Trail. This area would have also included the Chisum/Waide Ranch and, possibly, the Fortenberry Ranch and H. E. Long Ranch before going into Cook County and on into Montague County to the Red River Crossing into Indian Territory (Oklahoma). OTHER MARKERS ON FM 455 OR WITHIN LOCATION THAT PERTAIN TO CATTLE RANCHES AND CHISHOLM TRAIL HISTORY IN THIIS PART OF DENTON COUNTY: A Texas Historical Commission subject marker for the "Forester Ranch" is located on FM 455, 7.5 miles west of Sanger. A "Townsite of Bolivar" THC subject marker is located at SE corner of intersection of FM 455 and FM 2450, west of Sanger. Bolivar was the last supply station for the Chisholm Trail Cowboys as they came up the trail in the county. A Texas Centennial marker "John Simpson Chisum Homesite," is located on Jingle Bob Trail on private property off Chsum Trail and FM 2450 intersection. A THC HTC "Bolivar Cemetery" marker is on FM 455, 3.7 miles west of IH-35 in Sanger, adjacent to old Bolivar Baptist Church. The" Noah C. Batis" THC subject marker (now missing) was located at his house and farm on FM 455,west of I-35, across from elementary school.Batis was a drover and went up the Chisholm Traila and later owned a 90 acre stock farm and served as the town veterinarian. In Sanger "Sanger and the Gulf, Colarado and Santa Fe" THC subject marker is at 100 Bolivar Street, where ranchers later drove their herds through Bolivar to the stock pens at the railway for shipping to Kansas City. Chisholm Trail Marker Location Map is attached with application)
Marker installed: 2017
Marker size: 27" x 42" with post

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Texas random facts
Denton County, Texas, has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The region was initially inhabited by Native American tribes before European settlers arrived. In the mid-1800s, the area experienced rapid growth and development as pioneers and immigrants began to establish permanent settlements.

Denton County was officially established in 1846 and named after John B. Denton, a prominent figure in Texas history. The county played a significant role in the early days of Texas statehood and witnessed the challenges and triumphs of westward expansion.

Throughout the 19th century, Denton County thrived due to the expansion of railroads and the arrival of new settlers. Agriculture, particularly the production of cotton, became a key economic driver. Educational institutions, such as the University of North Texas and Texas Woman's University, were founded in Denton County during this period, establishing a legacy of academic excellence.

In the 20th century, Denton County continued to evolve. The discovery of oil in the area brought new economic opportunities, and the county experienced further growth and urbanization. Today, Denton County is a dynamic and thriving region with a diverse economy that includes sectors such as education, healthcare, technology, and manufacturing.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Denton County, Texas.

  • Native American Inhabitation: Before European settlement, Denton County was home to various Native American tribes, including the Wichita and Tonkawa.

  • Anglo-American Settlement: In the mid-1800s, Anglo-American settlers began to arrive, drawn by the fertile land and prospects for farming and ranching. The Peters Colony, a land grant company, played a significant role in attracting these settlers.

  • County Formation: Denton County was officially established in 1846, named after John B. Denton, a prominent preacher and soldier who died during the Texas Revolution.

  • Growth and Development: The county's growth accelerated with the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s, leading to the establishment of towns such as Denton, Lewisville, and Frisco. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, became a key economic driver in the region.

  • Education: Denton County became an educational hub with the founding of the University of North Texas (formerly known as North Texas Normal College) in 1890. The university has since grown into a major educational institution.

  • Modernization and Urbanization: In the 20th century, Denton County experienced suburban growth and industrial development, especially with the expansion of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The county's population has steadily increased, and it is now one of the fastest-growing counties in Texas.