Bucksnort
Historical marker location:This area was first settled in 1837 by members of the Marlin and Menefee families. The settlement grew steadily, and for a time was known as Jarett Menefee's Supply Station. By the 1840s the village boasted a school, general store, blacksmith shop, racetrack, stable, saloon, stagecoach stop, and post office. According to local legend, the name Bucksnort was coined by an inebriated patron of the saloon. By the 1850s, as settlers moved into other areas in the county, Bucksnort was no longer a viable community
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.
In the early 19th century, European settlers began to arrive in Falls County, drawn by the fertile soil and abundant natural resources. The county was officially established in 1850, and the town of Marlin was designated as the county seat. The development of railroads during this period further spurred the growth of the region, allowing for easier transportation of goods and people.
During the Civil War, Falls County, like many other parts of Texas, heavily supported the Confederacy. The economy revolved around agriculture, especially cotton plantations, which relied on enslaved labor. However, the war brought multiple challenges to the county, including shortages of supplies and soldiers, as well as occasional conflicts with Union forces.
In the post-war era, Falls County faced a period of rebuilding and diversification. The reliance on cotton continued, but other industries such as livestock ranching and oil extraction began to play a significant role in the county's economy. Over the years, Falls County has gone through various changes and challenges, but it remains a vibrant community with a rich history tied to the land and its people.
Falls County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Falls County, Texas.
- 1837 - Falls County is established by the Republic of Texas
- 1838 - The county seat is established in Perryville
- 1850 - Marlin becomes the new county seat
- 1861-1865 - Falls County residents serve in the Civil War
- 1873 - The Houston and Texas Central Railway reaches Marlin
- 1886 - The town of Lott is incorporated
- 1896 - The Marlin Female Institute is established
- 1910 - A serious cotton boll weevil infestation hits the county
- 1921 - The infamous Klan trials take place in Marlin
- 1953 - Falls County dedicates a new courthouse
- 1975 - Marlin State Hospital is designated a National Historic Landmark
- 1996 - The Marlin Democrat newspaper celebrates its 125th anniversary
- 2018 - Falls County celebrates its 180th anniversary