Historical Marker

Catarina Hotel

Historical marker location:
19290 S US Hwy 83, Catarina, Texas
( Catarina, 19290 South US Hwy. 83)
Marker installed: 2002
Marker size: 18" x 28"

Catarina grew around headquarters of the Sinton-Taft Ranch, later called Taft-Catarina Ranch. Kansas businessmen C.H. Kearny, J.E. Jarrett and H.V. Wheeler bought the ranch in the 1920s for development, attracting many buyers. By 1928, the town had approximately 2,500 residents and many businesses, including this hotel. In 1925-26, C.H. Kearny and Lee Peters designed and built the hotel in the Spanish Eclectic style, with features including tile roofs and mission elements, cast stone detailing, and a U-shaped plan with courtyard and fish pond. The building, which once also housed a bank, café, shops and offices, is a reminder of the town's boom era.

Recorded Texas Historic Landmark-2002

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.

hospitals Spanish Colonial Revival (architectural style)
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The Alamo, a mission in San Antonio, is perhaps the most famous historical site in Texas. It was the site of a key battle during the Texas Revolution in 1836.
Texas random facts
Dimmit County, located in southwest Texas, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Coahuiltecans, before European settlement began in the 18th century. Spanish explorers and missionaries, such as Alonso de León and Fray Juan de Salas, were some of the first Europeans to arrive in the region.

In the early 19th century, as Texas gained its independence from Spain and Mexico, Dimmit County became a center for ranching and agriculture. As more settlers arrived, small towns such as Carrizo Springs and Asherton were established, fostering the growth of the local economy. The county's economy thrived on the cattle industry and the abundance of natural resources, such as oil and gas.

During the Mexican Revolution in the early 20th century, Dimmit County experienced significant turmoil due to its proximity to the Mexican border. Border conflicts and the presence of bandits posed a threat to the safety and stability of the region. However, with the establishment of the Texas Rangers and enhanced border security, Dimmit County gradually regained its peace.

Today, Dimmit County continues to be a thriving economic center, with the oil and gas industry playing a vital role in its development. The county is also home to a diverse population, with a mix of Mexican American, Anglo-American, and Native American residents, all contributing to its rich cultural heritage. Its picturesque landscapes, including the scenic Brush Country, make Dimmit County an attractive destination for tourists and nature lovers alike.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Dimmit County, Texas.

  • 1858 - Dimmit County is established on February 1.
  • 1876 - Carrizo Springs becomes the county seat.
  • 1880 - The San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway reaches Carrizo Springs, boosting economic development.
  • 1900 - The population of Dimmit County reaches 5,864.
  • 1919 - Construction of Highway 57 begins, connecting Dimmit County to neighboring areas.
  • 1930 - The population of Dimmit County peaks at 9,527.
  • 1953 - Pico #1 oil well is drilled, leading to an oil boom in the area.
  • 1994 - The Texas Water Development Board designates Dimmit County as part of the Middle Rio Grande Groundwater Conservation District.