National Register Listing

Jones Farm

a.k.a. 41DN250

Johnson Branch Park, Lake Ray Roberts, Sanger, TX
Jones Farm is significant as an intact example of a typical farm found in the Eastern Cross Timbers of North Central Texas. The Jones Family inhabited the homestead for three generations dating from ca. 1858 to 1984 when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers purchased the property. The proposed National Register boundary encompasses the farmyard which contains the Jones House, outbuildings, structures, and archeological remains. Jones Farm is nominated to the National Register of Historic Places at a local level of significance in the areas of agriculture and exploration/settlement, architecture, and archeology.

The period of significance for Jones Farm is from 1858 to 1944. This period is based upon the time when Jones Farm made contributions and achieved the character on which its significance is based. During this period it was a productive farm engaged in agricultural activities representative of local and regional trends. A significant date for Jones Farm is 1858. At this time the farm was established as one of the first in the area. The archeo- logical site of the original log house dates from around 1858. Another significant date is 1898 when the extant farmhouse was built. In 1904 the 1898 farmhouse underwent several modifications. Construction dates for several of the outbuildings and structures have been established through oral history accounts. These significant dates are 1905, 1907, 1908, 1920, 1935, 1939, and 1941 (please see Section 7 for a detailed discussion of the evolution of Jones Farm). From prior to 1898, when the log crib is believed to have been built, into the 1940s, Jones Farm displays examples of outbuildings from throughout its period of significance.
Local significance of the building:
Exploration/settlement; Historic - Non-aboriginal; Architecture; Agriculture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1994.

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.

Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The Texas Rangers, a famous law enforcement agency, were first organized in 1835 to protect settlers from Native American attacks.
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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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.