Ponder
Historical marker location:
Settlers began to arrive in western Denton County in the 1850s in search of rich agricultural land. Silas Christal (1810-1883), his wife, Mary Elizabeth (Burnett) (1811-1883), and their twelve children arrived in 1855 from Missouri. Christal built an ox-driven mill to grind corn and, in 1880, built a school on his property. The town of Gerald was established in 1886 when the Gulf, Colorado, and Santa Fe Railway decided to create a line from Fort Worth to Indian territory in present-day Oklahoma. Another town in Texas was named Gerald, so the town was renamed Ponder in honor of William A. Ponder (1848-1911), a prominent landowner. The Denton Creek system provided settlers with ample resources and fertile land for agricultural production of wheat, corn, oats, and cotton.
In the late 1800s, churches formed to serve the growing community and included a Baptist church, Methodist church, and Church of Christ. In 1894, Cornelius N. Skaggs (1869-1938) opened the first business in Ponder, a store and post office, and became the second postmaster. The town quickly grew around the railway and included general stores, a lumber yard, cotton gin, mill, a bank, and a hotel. In 1897, one of the area’s largest landowners, H.F. Wakefield, donated land for a school. Community activities such as boys high school basketball and the Ponder rodeo, organized in 1939 by Chester January, Sidney Ford, and Dr. M.L. Holland, have brought the town together since the 1930s and 1940s. These local activities, businesses, education, and religious groups continue to represent the traditions and spirit of this small, rural town, incorporated in 1966
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 cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
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.
Denton County Timeline
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.