Historical Marker

Della Plain

Historical marker location:
Floydada, Texas
( from Floydada, take SH 207 about 5 miles to intersection with FM 786)
Marker installed: 1982
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Marker
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© OpenStreetMap contributors

A severe drought in the mid-1880s brought Baylor County rancher T. J. Braidfoot to this area in search of better conditions for his cattle. In 1887, with the support of J. R. McLain of Seymour, he founded the settlement of Della Plain at this site. Other early contributors to the town's development included Seymour residents I. R. Darnell and Dr. L. T. Wilson. Named for J. S. McLain's daughter Della and for the surrounding terrain, it was hoped the town would become the county seat when Floyd County was formally organized. Della Plain became an early agricultural center for the region and was soon the site of a school, church, post office, stores and a newspaper, the "Della Plain Review." Growth, however, was limited by an inadequate water supply and by the establishment of the nearby towns of Lockney (1889) and Floydada (1890). Rapid decline began after Floydada was named the seat of Floyd County in 1890. Four years later the community cemetery was all that remained of Della Plain. Despite its brief history, the pioneer town had a dramatic impact on the region. Its residents led in the later development of the county and nearby cities. Their descendants still live in the area. (1982, 1987)

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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Floyd County, located in the state of Texas, has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Comanche, Kiowa, and Apache. In the mid-19th century, settlers from the United States began to arrive and establish homesteads in the area.

The county itself was officially established in 1876 and named after Dolphin Ward Floyd, a pioneer settler in the region. The town of Floydada was designated as the county seat. Agriculture played a significant role in the early development of Floyd County, with settlers primarily engaged in livestock raising and crop farming.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Floyd County experienced a boom in population and economic growth. The construction of the Santa Fe Railroad in the area facilitated transportation and trade, leading to the establishment of new businesses and industries. The discovery of oil in the early 1900s further fueled the county's growth, attracting oil companies and boosting the local economy.

Over the years, Floyd County has faced various challenges, including devastating droughts and the Great Depression. However, the community has exhibited resilience and perseverance, bouncing back from these hardships. Today, the county continues to be primarily rural, with agriculture, oil production, and wind energy serving as significant economic contributors.

Overall, Floyd County's history is a testament to the spirit of its residents and the determination to overcome obstacles while maintaining a strong sense of community identity.

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

  • 1876: Floyd County is established and named after Dolphin Ward Floyd, a pioneer and Texas Ranger.
  • 1880: The first permanent settlement is established in Floyd County.
  • 1890: The county's population reaches over 1,000 residents.
  • 1890s: Ranching becomes the primary economic activity in the area.
  • 1907: The county seat is moved from Kai to Floydada.
  • 1929: The Great Depression hits Floyd County, leading to economic hardships for many residents.
  • 1930s: The Civilian Conservation Corps completes several projects in the county, providing much-needed employment opportunities.
  • 1940s: Floyd County experiences a population boom due to the discovery of oil and gas reserves.
  • 1950s: The construction of U.S. Route 70 through Floyd County improves transportation and access to the region.
  • 1980s: The agriculture industry in Floyd County begins to decline, leading to a shift towards other economic sectors.
  • 1990s: Education becomes a major focus in Floyd County with the establishment of several school districts.
  • 2000s: Wind energy development becomes a significant industry in the county.