1931 Free Bridge Controversy
As a result of late 1920s legislation in Texas and Oklahoma, the two states cooperated on a project to build free highway bridges spanning the Red River to accommodate rapidly increasing highway traffic. One of these bridges was near Colbert Bridge, a toll bridge descended from the mid-19th century Colbert's Ferry.
When the Free Bridge was ready to open in early July 1931, the Red River Bridge Company, operators of Colbert Bridge, obtained a federal restraining order against the opening of the Free Bridge until contractual payments had been made to compensate the company for their anticipated loss. Texas Governor Ross Sterling complied, but Oklahoma Governor William Murray, who was not a party to the contract between the Texas Highway Commission and the Red River Bridge Company, asked Governor Sterling to join him in protesting the injunction. Sterling refused. Murray ordered the removal of barricades erected by the Texas Highway Commission.
For twelve hours, traffic flowed freely across the bridge. By July 17, Texas Rangers guarded the southern side. Oklahoma highway crews rerouted traffic from Colbert Bridge to Preston Bridge several miles away and dismantled the approach to the Colbert Bridge from Oklahoma.
As tensions came close to breaking in the summer heat, the injunction was suspended; the Texas Rangers opened the bridge on Labor Day, 1931. It served until 1995, when it was replaced by a new structure. A portion of the Free Bridge was placed in a park in Colbert, Oklahoma, about two miles north. (1998)
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.
Texas is home to the world's largest bat colony. The Bracken Bat Cave, near San Antonio, is home to millions of Mexican free-tailed bats.
The county itself was established in 1846 and named after Peter Wagener Grayson, a lawyer who served in the Texas legislature. Grayson County quickly grew as settlers moved into the region, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for farming and ranching. The county's economy flourished with the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s, which facilitated transportation of goods and boosted trade in the area.
During the Civil War, Grayson County largely supported the Confederacy, and many residents volunteered to serve in the Southern army. After the war, the county faced challenges as it struggled to rebuild and recover from the economic and social impacts of the conflict. However, the discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought a new wave of prosperity to Grayson County. Oil fields were developed, attracting workers and boosting the local economy.
Today, Grayson County continues to thrive as a vibrant and growing community. It is home to several cities, including Sherman, the county seat, and Denison. The county is known for its natural beauty, including Lake Texoma, which is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and camping. Grayson County also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with numerous historical sites, museums, and festivals that celebrate its unique history and traditions.
Grayson County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Grayson County, Texas.
- 1836 - The Republic of Texas is established, including the area now known as Grayson County.
- 1846 - Grayson County is officially organized and named after Peter W. Grayson, a hero of the Texas Revolution.
- 1850 - The first courthouse is built in Sherman, becoming the county seat.
- 1871 - The arrival of the Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railroad sparks growth in the county.
- 1872 - Sherman is incorporated as a city.
- 1896 - The Red River Bridge, connecting Grayson County to the Oklahoma Territory, is completed.
- 1900 - The population of Grayson County reaches over 40,000 residents.
- 1930s - Grayson County is affected by the Great Depression, but starts recovering through federal programs.
- 1960s - Lake Texoma is created by the Army Corps of Engineers, providing recreational opportunities.
- 1990s - Grayson County experiences rapid growth due to its proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
- 2006 - The Grayson County Courthouse, built in 1910, undergoes major renovations.