La Bahia Trail
Historical marker location:Originally an Indian trail through Southern Texas and Louisiana; known to Spanish explorers as early as 1690, when the De Leon Expedition passed this site on the way from Mexico to East Texas.
With 115 men, 721 horses, 82 loads of flour, and other supplies, Alonso de Leon, Governor of Coahuila, and Father Massanet, a Franciscan priest, entered the wilds of Texas. The purpose of the expedition was to discourage French encroachment from the north, as well as to explore, colonize, and Christianize the Indians.
They followed the rugged trail from the present town of Refugio to Goliad and continued northeast to Navasota, probably following Cedar Creek through this town. Then they journeyed north until reaching the Neches River, where (near present Weches) they founded the Mission of San Francisco de Los Tejas. The church was called after the Tejas, or "Friendly" Indians, whose name was eventually given to the entire state.
Although de Leon's party went no farther on the western section of the trail, known as Atascosito Road, the eastern section extended into Louisiana.
In nineteenth century, the route gained importance as a cattle trail, the Opelousas Road, that moved Texas herds to market in the north and east
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 first domed stadium in the world, the Astrodome, was built in Houston in 1965 and hosted numerous sporting events and concerts over the years.
In its early years, Grimes County played a significant role in the development of the Republic of Texas. It served as an important transportation hub due to its location on the Old San Antonio Road, which connected the different regions of Texas. The construction of the Houston and Texas Central Railroad in the 1850s further enhanced the county's connectivity and promoted economic growth.
The county was not immune to the impact of the American Civil War, which deeply affected Texas as a whole. Grimes County saw its fair share of battles and skirmishes, and many local men enlisted in the Confederate Army. Following the war, the county experienced a period of recovery and reintegration into the post-war society.
Throughout the 20th century, Grimes County has evolved into an important agricultural and industrial center. The growth of the timber industry and the discovery of oil and natural gas reserves in the area brought economic prosperity to the county. Today, Grimes County continues to thrive as a vibrant community, drawing visitors with its beautiful scenery, historical landmarks, and diverse cultural heritage.
Grimes County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Grimes County, Texas.
- 1821: Grimes County, Texas, was established as a part of Mexico's Coahuila y Tejas province.
- 1830: The population of Grimes County experienced significant growth due to the influx of American settlers.
- 1836: Texas declared independence from Mexico, leading to the Texas Revolution.
- 1837: Grimes County was officially formed and named after Jesse Grimes, a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence.
- 1850: The advent of railroads in Grimes County resulted in increased trade and economic development.
- 1861: Texas seceded from the United States and joined the Confederate States of America at the start of the Civil War.
- 1867: Reconstruction efforts began after the end of the Civil War, aiming to rebuild the county's economy and infrastructure.
- 1873: Navasota became the county seat, replacing Anderson.
- 1881: The Houston and Texas Central Railway reached the town of Plantersville, further boosting the area's growth.
- 1900: The Galveston hurricane of 1900 caused significant devastation in Grimes County and the surrounding region.
- 1930s: The Great Depression had a major impact on Grimes County, leading to economic hardships and agricultural decline.
- 1942: The U.S. Army established Camp Hearne in Grimes County during World War II as a prisoner of war camp.
- Present: Grimes County continues to be a rural area with agriculture as a significant part of its economy.