Rocksprings Telephone Company
Historical marker location:(Southwest Texas Telephone Company) Local businessman Street Gilmer and D. H. Comparette of Kerrville built a long distance telephone line from Rocksprings to Kerrville in 1898. They installed the town's first telephone in Newton & Smart's store. The phone was later moved to Gilmer's Drug Store; this marked the beginning of the Rocksprings Telephone Company.
Telephone customers in the early 20th century used crank-handled magneto wall phones to contact telephone operators. As many as seventeen parties shared each phone line. A 1927 tornado impaired many of the Rocksprings lines and devastated the town. Telephone company employee Foster Owens left his home in the unstable weather to clear the toll lines by hand and call for assistance from Kerrville. Following the tornado, the telephone company built a new rock building.
The 1950s brought major changes for the growing company. Street Gilmer died in February 1951 and his son Claud, a former state legislator and speaker of the House, became president of the company. In 1952 the Rocksprings exchange purchased the Nueces Canyon Telephone Company.
Claud Gilmer's son became general manager in 1953. Over the next decade, the company acquired the Utopia, D'Hanis, and Vinegarroon telephone exchanges. By 1958 every exchange in the company had been converted to the dial system.
The Rocksprings and Nueces Canyon Telephone Company became the Southwest Texas Telephone Company in 1983. It continues to be a family business: two of Street Gilmer's grandchildren and five great-grandchildren served on the board of directors one hundred years after the company's inception. (1998)
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.
Texas is known for its love of football, and the state has produced many great football players, including legends like Tom Landry, Earl Campbell, and Vince Young.
In the 16th century, Spanish explorers began to venture into the region, claiming the land for Spain. However, it wasn't until the 18th century that the Spanish government established several missions and presidios in the area, including the Presidio de San Sabá. These missions aimed to convert the indigenous peoples to Christianity and establish a Spanish presence in the region.
During the early 19th century, Edwards County played a significant role in the fight for Texas independence from Mexico. In 1836, the Battle of San Jacinto, a crucial turning point in the Texas Revolution, took place near present-day Edwards County. The Republic of Texas was formed shortly after, and Edwards County became part of the new nation.
As the 19th century progressed, settlers began to move into Edwards County, establishing ranches and farms. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw fluctuations in the population and economy of the county, as the region faced challenges such as conflicts with Native American tribes and the effects of the Great Depression.
Today, Edwards County is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the scenic Edwards Plateau. Ranching and hunting are still important economic activities in the area. The county's rich history and natural beauty continue to attract visitors who come to explore its historic sites, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience the unique culture and heritage of Edwards County, Texas.
Edwards County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Edwards County, Texas.
- 1760s: The area of Edwards County is inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Lipan Apache and Comanche.
- 1825: The Mexican government grants a land grant called the Beales-Miller Grant, which includes the land that later becomes Edwards County.
- 1838: The Texas legislature establishes Edwards County as a separate entity, named after Haden Edwards, an empresario who had a role in the Anglo-American colonization of Texas.
- 1872: The county seat is established in Rocksprings, which becomes the center of government and commerce for Edwards County.
- 1913: The construction of the South Texas Railroad brings new settlers and economic opportunities to Edwards County.
- 1927: The discovery of oil in Edwards County leads to an oil boom, sparking rapid growth and development in the area.
- 1940s: The population of Edwards County peaks, as the oil industry brings in more workers and businesses.
- 1950s-1970s: The oil industry experiences a decline, leading to a decrease in population and economic activity in Edwards County.
- 1980s-present: Edwards County experiences a shift towards ranching and tourism, with the natural beauty of the area becoming a draw for visitors.