Carbon City Jail
During a jailbreak, Carbon’s 1905 jail was destroyed, resulting in the need for a more substantial calaboose. Built in 1921, this unadorned square plan building is composed of reinforced concrete walls and a steel door. The structure had no lights or heat, and was intended as temporary holding until prisoners were transferred to other cities. The building often stood vacant, and during WWII it was used for occasional scrap drive collections. Local brides and grooms were sometimes locked up on their wedding nights. Today the jail is a rare surviving example of a once-common building type in Texas towns
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 state of Texas was once an independent country known as the Republic of Texas. It gained independence from Mexico in 1836 and was a separate nation until it was annexed by the United States in 1845.
The county's official establishment came in 1858, when Texas Legislature recognized it as a separate entity. The county was named after William M. Eastland, who fought in the Texan Revolution and served as a Texas Ranger. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Eastland County experienced significant growth and development thanks to the arrival of railroads, making it a crucial transportation hub for the surrounding regions.
The discovery of oil in the early 20th century also brought prosperity to Eastland County. The oil boom led to a population increase, as well as the growth of industrial and commercial sectors. However, the Great Depression of the 1930s had a devastating impact on the county, leading to a decline in population and economic activity.
In recent decades, Eastland County has worked to revive its economy and preserve its rich heritage. Today, the county is known for its thriving agricultural sector, including cattle farming and crop cultivation. The county also attracts tourists with its natural beauty, offering outdoor recreational activities such as fishing, hunting, and camping. Eastland County continues to embrace its history while looking towards a promising future.
Eastland County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Eastland County, Texas.
- 1850 - Eastland County is established as a county in Texas.
- 1854 - The town of Palo Pinto is designated as the county seat.
- 1858 - Palo Pinto is abandoned, and the county seat is moved to Merriman.
- 1875 - Merriman loses the county seat status to Eastland.
- 1890 - The Texas Central Railroad arrives in Eastland, fueling growth and economic development.
- 1907 - The first oil well in Eastland County is drilled, leading to the rise of the oil industry in the area.
- 1920 - The Eastland City Dam is built, creating Lake Leon and providing a water source for the region.
- 1930 - The population of Eastland County reaches its peak, with over 30,000 residents.
- 1938 - Eastland County is severely affected by the devastating tornado outbreak known as the "Wichita Falls–East Texas Tornado Outbreak."
- 1950s - The decline of the oil industry and changes in agriculture lead to a population decrease in Eastland County.
- Today, Eastland County is a rural area with a diverse economy, including agriculture, oil and gas production, and tourism.