Historical Marker

Charles Harvey Waddell

Marker installed: 1990
Marker size: 18" x 28"

(January 18, 1888 - January 28, 1950)

A native of Arkansas, Charles Harvey Waddell came to Texas with his family at an early age. He became an automobile dealer in 1910 and in 1914 formed the Fort Bend Telephone Company. He served as county tax collector from 1919 to 1922, and from 1926 to 1930 represented Waller and Fort Bend counties in the State Legislature. Through his later business interests, including three local farmers' gins, real estate development, a lumber company, and a savings and loan institution, Waddell contributed significantly to the growth and development of Rosenberg

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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Texas has been a major oil-producing state for over a century. The first big oil discovery in Texas was the Spindletop field near Beaumont in 1901, which set off a massive oil boom that transformed the state's economy and made Texas one of the wealthiest states in the country.
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Fort Bend County, Texas has a rich and significant history that spans several centuries. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and Akokisa tribes. European settlement began in the early 1820s, with the region becoming a part of Stephen F. Austin's colony. The county was officially established in 1837 and named after a blockhouse fort built along the Brazos River.

One pivotal event in the county's history was the arrival of sugar cane cultivation in the 1840s. Immigrants from Germany and other European countries brought their expertise in sugar production and established large sugar plantations in Fort Bend County. The growth of the sugar industry substantially impacted the county's economy and led to the arrival of enslaved African Americans, who provided labor on these plantations.

During the American Civil War, Fort Bend County remained primarily loyal to the Confederate cause. Many residents joined Confederate units and fought in several battles, such as the Battle of Palmito Ranch and the Battle of Pleasant Hill. Following the war, the county experienced a period of reconstruction and worked towards diversifying its agricultural production.

The 20th century brought further transformations, with the discovery of oil and gas in the county. The newfound oil industry spurred economic growth and development, as well as population growth. Fort Bend County also played a vital role in the civil rights movement, with several significant milestones, including the integration of public schools in 1963. Today, Fort Bend County is a thriving and diverse community, known for its rich history, strong economy, and cultural diversity.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Fort Bend County, Texas.

  • 1822: Stephen F. Austin grants land to his secretary, Samuel M. Williams, who establishes the Fort Bend settlement near present-day Richmond, Texas
  • 1824: Mexico establishes Fort Bend County as part of Austin's Colony
  • 1837: Fort Bend becomes an official county in the Republic of Texas
  • 1841: The new county courthouse is built in Richmond
  • 1856: Sugar production becomes a major industry in Fort Bend County
  • 1861: Fort Bend County residents support secession and the Confederacy during the Civil War
  • 1900: The first rail line, known as the Galveston, Harrisburg and San Antonio Railway, arrives in Fort Bend County
  • 1920: The discovery of oil leads to an economic boom in the county
  • 1941: Sugar Land Regional Airport opens to support military training during World War II
  • 1959: The town of Stafford is incorporated
  • 1990: Fort Bend County's population exceeds 200,000