The Edward Mugge House
Historical marker location:Built in 1870s by a key man in the activities and ideology that gave the town of Cuero its economic leadership role in late 19th century south Texas.
Edward Mugge (1839-97), a native of Germany, arrived in the now-extinct seaport of Indianola (80 miles southeast) on Aug. 20, 1854. Seizing opportunities to rise through hard work and resourcefulness, he attained in two decades the eminence of partnership in the pioneer banking firm of H. Runge and Company. In his diverse enterprises he offered many other young men -- particularly those of similar Teutonic - American heritage -- chances to invest work and skill in development of this area.
Beginning this house as a typical comfortable home of the region, he originally built seven rooms -- three of these milled in Saint Louis and assembled here. Over ensuing years he made additions as surprise gifts to his wife (Nee Pauline Blumenthal) and six children: Edward, Lilly, Anna, Henry, Oscar, and Fred. The house grew to 15 rooms, five halls, three porches. On grounds were a summerhouse, greenhouse, bath house, wash house, smokehouse, huge cistern (still existent), and stables (which later became a garage for some of the first automobiles in Cuero). The Mugge house illustrates the history of its builder and period.
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1971
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 first oil well in the United States was drilled in Texas in 1859. The discovery of oil transformed the economy of the state and helped to make Texas one of the wealthiest states in the nation.
In 1827, the area that is now DeWitt County was incorporated into the Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas. Shortly after, American settlement began in the region, with empresarios such as Green DeWitt and Martín de León playing significant roles. DeWitt, for whom the county is named, received a land grant in 1825 and played a vital part in bringing Anglo-American colonizers to the area.
DeWitt County saw significant growth during the Texas Revolution in the 1830s. The Battle of Gonzales, the first engagement of the revolution, occurred just outside the county's boundaries. The county itself became a site of conflict during the revolution, with the Battle of Ethel's Woods and the Battle of Gonzales River Bridge taking place within its borders.
After Texas gained independence from Mexico, DeWitt County was officially established in 1846. The county seat was initially Gonzales, but it was moved to Cuero in 1876. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, DeWitt County experienced economic growth due to industries such as ranching, oil, and agriculture.
Present-day DeWitt County continues to thrive as a center for agriculture, oil and gas production, and tourism. The county is known for its rich historical sites, including the Gonzales Memorial Museum, which houses artifacts from the Texas Revolution, and numerous ranches that showcase the area's strong cattle industry. DeWitt County's history is a testament to the resilience and determination of its early settlers and remains an essential part of Texas's broader historical narrative.
DeWitt County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of DeWitt County, Texas.
- 1827: DeWitt County is established as a part of DeWitt's Colony in Mexican Texas.
- 1840: The Battle of Plum Creek takes place in DeWitt County during the Texan Revolution.
- 1846: DeWitt County becomes a part of the newly formed Republic of Texas.
- 1848: Texas becomes a state of the United States, and DeWitt County remains a part of it.
- 1850: Population growth leads to the establishment of the county seat, Cuero.
- 1870: The Gulf, Western Texas and Pacific Railway reaches Cuero, increasing trade and transportation opportunities.
- 1874: Cuero is officially incorporated as a city.
- 1893: Oil is discovered in DeWitt County, leading to economic growth and development.
- 1923: A disastrous fire destroys much of downtown Cuero.
- 1941-1945: DeWitt County contributes to the war effort during World War II.
- 1960s-1970s: DeWitt County experiences a decline in population and economic activity.
- 1990s-present: DeWitt County experiences a resurgence in oil and gas production, leading to economic growth.