Edwards County Courthouse and Jail
Public Sq., Rocksprings, TXFor almost 90 years since its construction in 1891, the Edwards County Courthouse in Rocksprings has been in use as its community's center of government and continues to serve the area in this capacity. The first public building to be erected in Rocksprings, its rough-cut masonry style, utilizing the state's native limestone, is characteristic of Edwards County's rugged landscape. The handsomely designed quality of the courthouse's stonework is best appreciated on the gables of its north and south facades, where it displays an ornate quality more commonly found on the more elaborate Romanesque Revival structures of the day. Currently, in fine condition, the Edwards County Courthouse has been continually repaired and maintained throughout its many years of use.
Rocksprings had only been a year old when a county election designated it the permanent county seat in 1891. Edwards County had been organized in 1883, but prior to this election, several other towns in the vicinity had held this distinction temporarily, Leakey being the last. The final election to determine the permanent site was a hotly contested one between the towns competing for the honor, and it was said that armed men, anticipating trouble and prepared to fight if necessary, were needed to accompany the wagon carrying county records from Leakey to their new depository in Rocksprings.
Until the new courthouse was constructed official county business was transacted at a local town store, but in June of 1891 plans and specifications were advertised for a new two-story courthouse. This contract was let to Ben Davey and Bruno Schott of Kerrville for $18,000. Four years later they would also be awarded the contract to build the present jail for $4,780, replacing a temporary structure that had been moved from Leakey earlier.
Since its original construction, the courthouse has survived two potential disasters. An 1898 fire necessitated some restoration work, done by Davey and Schott according to their original building plans. The structure also miraculously withstood a devastating tornado in 1927, which killed 70 citizens and destroyed much of Rocksprings, but the solidly built courthouse sustained only roof damage.
One of the most notable local residents to practice law in the Edwards County Courthouse was the Honorable Claud H. Gilmer, who also made considerable contributions to the state as well. He began his political career as a practicing attorney and county judge in 1924 and went on to distinguish himself as speaker of the house of representatives of the state legislature from 1943 to 1948. Though he chose not to run again his continuing political influence made him known as "The Balance Wheel of the 50th Legislature, and he has since been named to serve on several local and state education, election, and conservation boards.
In 1973 the former legislator was chosen as the main speaker at the ceremony in Rock- springs commemorating its courthouse as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark.
Local significance of the building:
Rocksprings had only been a year old when a county election designated it the permanent county seat in 1891. Edwards County had been organized in 1883, but prior to this election, several other towns in the vicinity had held this distinction temporarily, Leakey being the last. The final election to determine the permanent site was a hotly contested one between the towns competing for the honor, and it was said that armed men, anticipating trouble and prepared to fight if necessary, were needed to accompany the wagon carrying county records from Leakey to their new depository in Rocksprings.
Until the new courthouse was constructed official county business was transacted at a local town store, but in June of 1891 plans and specifications were advertised for a new two-story courthouse. This contract was let to Ben Davey and Bruno Schott of Kerrville for $18,000. Four years later they would also be awarded the contract to build the present jail for $4,780, replacing a temporary structure that had been moved from Leakey earlier.
Since its original construction, the courthouse has survived two potential disasters. An 1898 fire necessitated some restoration work, done by Davey and Schott according to their original building plans. The structure also miraculously withstood a devastating tornado in 1927, which killed 70 citizens and destroyed much of Rocksprings, but the solidly built courthouse sustained only roof damage.
One of the most notable local residents to practice law in the Edwards County Courthouse was the Honorable Claud H. Gilmer, who also made considerable contributions to the state as well. He began his political career as a practicing attorney and county judge in 1924 and went on to distinguish himself as speaker of the house of representatives of the state legislature from 1943 to 1948. Though he chose not to run again his continuing political influence made him known as "The Balance Wheel of the 50th Legislature, and he has since been named to serve on several local and state education, election, and conservation boards.
In 1973 the former legislator was chosen as the main speaker at the ceremony in Rock- springs commemorating its courthouse as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark.
Politics/government; Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
In Texas, poetry is all around you.
About Edwards County
Edwards County Timeline
Edwards County, Texas is located in the southern part of the state and has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples, such as the Lipan Apache and the Comanche tribes. These tribes thrived on hunting, gathering, and trading in the area.
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.
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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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.
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