Historical Marker

In Memory Of Private Gregg, William Max, W. H. Kilpatrick

Historical marker location:
CR 384, Spur, Texas
( Spur Cemetery, local road of Highway 70, .25 miles east of Spur city limits)
Marker installed: 1936
Marker size: 1936 Centennial Marker (gray granite)

In Memory Of Private Gregg, William Max, W. H. Kilpatrick and other soldiers who met death in this region while serving under General R. S. MacKenzie, Fourth U.S. Cavalry, 1871-1872 and 1874-1875. with no hope of honor if victorious, no dream of mercy if they fell, and the certainty of death by torture if taken alive, they fought the savage Comanche and cleared the plains for the white men

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.

military topics Native American
The world's first rodeo was held in Pecos, Texas in 1883. The event included bronco riding, calf roping, and bull riding.
Texas random facts
Dickens County, located in the state of Texas, has a rich and fascinating history dating back to the mid-19th century. The county was initially part of the Bexar District, but in 1858, it became part of the Young Territory. The area was known for its vast grasslands, attracting settlers who were primarily involved in ranching and farming.

In 1876, Dickens County was officially established and named after J. Dickens, a famous Texas veteran of the American Civil War. The county remained sparsely populated for several years until the Fort Worth and Denver City Railway reached the area in the 1880s. This led to an influx of settlers and the establishment of towns such as Spur, the county seat, and Afton.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed a rapid growth in Dickens County. The agricultural industry thrived, with cotton becoming the main cash crop. Cattle ranching also played a significant role in the county's economy. The discovery of oil in the early 1900s further boosted development and brought in additional revenue.

However, like many other areas in Texas, Dickens County faced challenges during the Great Depression. The agricultural sector suffered, and many residents were forced to leave in search of better opportunities. Despite these hardships, the county gradually recovered and saw renewed growth in the post-World War II era.

Today, Dickens County is an important part of the region's agricultural industry, primarily producing cotton, wheat, and livestock. It also attracts visitors with its scenic landscapes, historic sites, and annual events celebrating its western heritage. The county's rich history and resilience continue to shape its identity and contribute to its vibrant community.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Dickens County, Texas.

  • 1876 - Dickens County, Texas is established on August 21
  • 1886 - The town of Dickens is established as the county seat
  • 1890 - First census records a population of 1,972 in the county
  • 1891 - The Dickens County Courthouse is built
  • 1909 - The Texas Central Railroad reaches Dickens County, boosting economic growth
  • 1926 - Route 82 becomes the first paved highway in the county
  • 1940 - Peak population of 5,967 is recorded
  • 1953 - The McAdoo oilfield is discovered, leading to increased oil production in the county
  • 1974 - The Rocker B Ranch, covering over 100,000 acres, becomes the largest private ranch in the county
  • 1990 - Population drops to 2,762 as agriculture becomes less dominant
  • 2007 - The Dickens County Wind Farm is established, taking advantage of the area's strong winds for renewable energy