Wilson N. Jones (c. 1827-1901)
Historical marker location:Wilson N. Jones
(c. 1827 - 1901)
Born in Mississippi, Wilson N. Jones was a member of the Choctaw Nation. As a young boy, Jones joined his family and the rest of the Choctaws in what became known as the Trail of Tears, the removal of Native Americans to the Indian Territory (Oklahoma) in the 1830s. During the force migration, his father served as an Indian captain, charged with distributing blankets, tool and other necessities to his fellow Choctaws.
Jones lived in Oklahoma most of his adult life. He was successful in ranching, real estate, cotton and coal interests. By the late 19th century, Jones also became active in Choctaw politics. He served several terms as Principal Chief of the Choctaw Nation. After finishing hi final term in 1894, he moved to Sherman, Texas where he continued to administer his financial interests.
Upon his death in 901, Jones’ will revealed a bequest of funds to establish a hospital in Sherman which would bear his name. However, years would pass before the courts granted this action. Legal efforts to break the will lasted almost two decades before a Texas district court ruled in favor of the executors of the will. In 1920, the Texas Court of Civil Appeals affirmed the decision of the district court, and the funds were made available for a hospital. By that time two hospitals already existed in Sherman. In 1928, funds from the Jones estate were used to buy Sherman Hospital, which was renamed Wilson N. Jones Hospital. Now known as the Wilson N. Jones Medical Center, the hospital is an important regional facility serving southern Oklahoma and north Texas.
(2006)
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.
The stars at night are big and bright, deep in the heart of Texas.
European settlement in Gray County began in the late 19th century, driven by the expansion of railroads and the cattle industry. The area became a popular destination for cattle ranchers, with the establishment of large ranches and the construction of stockyards and rail lines. The growth of the cattle industry played a significant role in shaping the county's early economy and attracting settlers to the region.
In 1876, Gray County was officially organized and named after Peter W. Gray, a prominent Texas lawyer and judge. The county seat, Pampa, was established in 1892 and experienced rapid growth due to the discovery of oil in the early 20th century. The oil boom created a surge in population and economic activity, bringing prosperity to the region.
Throughout the 20th century, Gray County continued to thrive due to its diverse economy, including agriculture, oil and gas, and manufacturing industries. The area's agricultural sector remained strong, with crops like wheat, sorghum, and cotton being cultivated. Additionally, manufacturing companies set up operations in the county, further contributing to its economic stability.
Today, Gray County is a thriving community with a mix of rural and urban areas. It continues to be a center for agriculture, oil and gas production, and manufacturing. The county's rich history is celebrated through various cultural events and museums, providing visitors with a glimpse into the area's past.
Gray County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Gray County, Texas.
- 1876: Gray County was officially organized and named after Peter W. Gray, a Texas lawyer.
- 1887: The first post office in Gray County was established.
- 1889: The town of Pampa was founded and became the county seat of Gray County.
- 1902: The first railroad, Southern Kansas Railway, reached Pampa, leading to significant growth and development.
- 1924: A significant oil discovery, the White Deer Oil Field, sparked an oil boom in Gray County.
- 1934: The county experienced severe damage and loss of life due to a devastating tornado.
- 1952: The Pantex Ordnance Plant, a major nuclear weapons assembly and disassembly facility, was established in Gray County.
- 1965: Lake McClellan, a reservoir on the Red River, was completed and became a popular recreational area.
- 1995: The historic Gray County Courthouse, built in 1929, was restored and designated as a Texas Historic Landmark.