Carpenters Bluff Bridge
Historical marker location:Originally built as a railroad bridge for the Missouri, Oklahoma and Gulf (MO&G) Line, this landmark structure across the Red River continues to provide a transportation route between Grayson County, Texas, and Bryan County, Oklahoma. MO&G officials determined they needed a line through Grayson County to connect there with other railways in order to secure better freight rates for their shipments from the Oklahoma coal mines. The new line, under construction by 1910, entered Texas via this bridge at the small community known as Carpenters Bluff.
Completed in the late summer of 1910, the Carpenters Bluff Bridge was designed to withstand major floods such as the one in 1908 that had destroyed several area bridges. Its design also included a wagon shelf, an extra lane to serve travelers on foot and horseback, as well as horse-drawn vehicles, all of whom had to pay a toll for its use.
In 1921, ownership passed to the Kansas, Oklahoma and Gulf Railway Co., which maintained the line until 1965, when the company ceased operations in Texas due to declining rail traffic. The Texas & Pacific Railroad maintained the bridge for a brief time and then deeded it to the counties of Grayson and Bryan. County commissioners agreed to convert the structure for vehicular traffic, and upon completion of that work, the bridge was opened as a free public thoroughfare.
Spanning the Red River since 1910, the Carpenters Bluff Bridge remains a significant part of Grayson County's history.
(2002)
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 known for its love of football, and the state has produced many great football players, including legends like Tom Landry, Earl Campbell, and Vince Young.
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.