Historical Marker

Fannin County Courthouses

Historical marker location:
Bonham, Texas
( Courthouse Square)
Marker installed: 1974
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Commissioners Court first met at Jacob Black's cabin on Feb. 26, 1836, before Fannin County was officially organized. In 1838 Warren (near present Ambrose in Grayson County) was named the county seat. The courthouse built there in 1840 was a two-story oak and cedar structure with rough plank floors. In 1843 the county seat was moved to Bois d'Arc; town's name was changed to Bonham, for an Alamo hero, the next year. Judge John P. Simpson donated land for the small log courthouse of 1843. Later another cabin was built with a breezeway connecting the two. In the early courthouse jurors sat above the courtroom in a loft that could be reached only by an outside ladder.

This log building served until 1881 when a two-story brick structure was erected at the same location. This was replaced in 1888 by a 3-story courthouse made of native stone from Gober, south of Bonham, and built by Scottish-born stonemasons Kane and Cormack. Fire in 1929 destroyed the clock steeple, and the building was remodeled.

Using part of the 1888 structure, this courthouse was constructed in 1965-66 with a facade of Leuders stone. It was dedicated by Governor John Connally

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.

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Fannin County, Texas is located in the northeastern part of the state and has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The county was established in 1837 and was named after James Fannin, a prominent figure in Texas's fight for independence from Mexico. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Choctaw, before European settlers began to venture into the region.

During the Texas Revolution in 1836, Fannin County played a significant role in the struggle for independence. The Battle of Village Creek took place in the county, where Texian troops clashed with Mexican forces. Although the Texians won the battle, the conflict ultimately led to the massacre of James Fannin and his men at Goliad. This event became a rallying cry for Texan independence and solidarity.

In the following years, Fannin County experienced rapid growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the 1870s expanded trade and transportation, leading to increased prosperity. Agriculture became the backbone of the county's economy, with cotton, corn, and cattle production taking center stage. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century further contributed to the region's economic growth.

Throughout its history, Fannin County has faced challenges, including natural disasters such as devastating floods in the late 1800s and early 1900s. However, the resilient community has always managed to recover and rebuild. Today, Fannin County is a thriving area, known for its rich history, charming small towns, and agricultural heritage.

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

  • 1836: Fannin County is established as a county of Texas.
  • 1837: The county's first courthouse is constructed in the town of Warren.
  • 1839: The county seat is moved to the town of Bois d'Arc.
  • 1843: The county seat is relocated again, this time to Bonham.
  • 1845: Texas becomes a state, and Fannin County is officially recognized as part of the state.
  • 1858: Construction of a new courthouse in Bonham is completed.
  • 1861-1865: Fannin County experiences the impact of the American Civil War.
  • 1872: The first railroad is completed in the county, boosting economic growth.
  • 1886: A devastating fire destroys much of downtown Bonham, resulting in a significant rebuilding effort.
  • 1896: The Texas State Normal College is established in Bonham, later renamed Texas A&M University-Commerce.
  • 1905: Construction of a new courthouse in Bonham is completed.
  • 1930s: Fannin County experiences an economic decline during the Great Depression.
  • 1940s-1950s: Fannin County sees growth and development due to World War II and the subsequent post-war economic boom.
  • 1994: The county's current courthouse, a historic and architectural landmark, is added to the National Register of Historic Places.