Roby
Historical marker location:Located on land originally included in a land grant to Texas War for Independence veteran Thomas H. Cosby, the town of Roby was first platted in 1885. The land was purchased by D. C. and M. L. Roby of Mississippi, relatives of Cosby's second wife, Martha. The Robys hired Walton, Hill, and Walton, a Travis County law firm, to represent their interests, and instructed the attorneys to organize a town to be named county seat of Fisher County. On behalf of their clients, the attorneys donated land for churches, schools, a park, and a cemetery. Town lots were also given to settlers who would build homes within ninety days. In an election held in April 1886, Roby was declared the county seat. The first county court was held in a shed behind the V. H. Anderson House, which served as the town's first post office. A frame courthouse was built on the southwest corner of the town square and was replaced over the years by a succession of other structures. Schools, churches, and businesses were established as settlement in the town increased. Retaining its small town atmosphere, Roby remains a center of commerce for Fisher County. (1989)
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 late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
The early settlers of Fisher County were primarily ranchers and farmers who were attracted to the fertile land and abundance of water sources, particularly the Colorado River. These pioneers faced many challenges, including severe weather conditions and conflicts with Native American tribes in the area. However, they persevered and gradually developed thriving communities, mainly centered around farming and ranching.
The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s greatly enhanced the county's economic development. The railroad allowed for the transport of goods and improved access to markets, leading to the growth of towns such as Roby and Rotan. With the expansion of the rail network, Fisher County became an important transportation hub in the region.
In the 20th century, Fisher County faced some setbacks, including the effects of the Great Depression and a decline in population due to the mechanization of farming. However, the discovery of oil and gas reserves in the area in the 1940s provided a boost to the local economy. Today, Fisher County continues to rely on agriculture, oil and gas, and small businesses as its main economic drivers, while also preserving its historical heritage through museums and cultural events.
Fisher County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Fisher County, Texas.
- 1870: Fisher County was established on February 1, 1876, and named after Samuel Rhoads Fisher, a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence.
- 1880s: The first settlement in the area was established near the Clear Fork of the Brazos River.
- 1890s: The county experienced a population boom with the arrival of the Texas Central Railroad.
- 1911: The town of Roby was designated as the county seat of Fisher County.
- 1930s: Fisher County, like the rest of the country, was greatly affected by the Great Depression.
- 1940s: The discovery of oil and gas in the county led to economic growth and increased population.
- 1970s: The county faced economic challenges due to declining oil prices.
- 2000s: Fisher County continued to be primarily agricultural, with farming and ranching as the main economic activities.