Frederick B. Gentry
Historical marker location:Texas War for Independence soldier, 1836. Later commanded a frontier Minuteman Company.
Erected by the State of texas, 1962
1821: Mexico gains independence from Spain, and Texas becomes a part of the Mexican territory.
1824: The Mexican government establishes a constitution, known as the Mexican Federal Constitution of 1824, which grants certain rights to the Mexican states, including Texas.
1826: The Fredonian Rebellion occurs when Haden Edwards, an empresario (land agent), declares the independence of the Republic of Fredonia in East Texas. The rebellion is quickly suppressed by Mexican authorities.
1830: The Mexican government passes the Law of April 6, 1830, which imposes several restrictions on American immigration to Texas and increases Mexican control over the region. This leads to growing tensions between Mexican authorities and the Anglo-American settlers.
1832: The Battle of Velasco takes place between Texian settlers and Mexican forces near the town of Velasco. The Texians win the battle, which marks one of the early armed conflicts in the region.
1835: The Texas Revolution officially begins with the Battle of Gonzales. Texian rebels refuse to surrender a cannon, and Mexican troops are sent to retrieve it. However, the Texians successfully defend the cannon, which has a flag with the words "Come and Take It" painted on it.
October 1835: Texian forces capture the Mexican garrison at Goliad, marking a significant victory for the revolutionaries.
November 1835: The Consultation, a provisional government, is established by the Texian rebels. They declare loyalty to Mexico while seeking a restoration of the Mexican Constitution of 1824 and the removal of Mexican President Antonio López de Santa Anna.
December 1835: Texian rebels, under the command of Ben Milam, capture San Antonio de Béxar after a 13-day siege. Mexican forces under General Martín Perfecto de Cos surrender, giving the Texians control of the city.
March 1836: The Texian garrison at the Alamo, in San Antonio, is besieged by a large Mexican force under General Santa Anna. The battle lasts for 13 days, and despite fierce resistance, the defenders are overwhelmed, and all are killed.
March 2, 1836: The Texas Declaration of Independence is adopted at the Convention of 1836, held at Washington-on-the-Brazos. Texas declares itself as an independent republic.
March 27, 1836: The Goliad Massacre takes place when General Santa Anna orders the execution of around 350 Texian prisoners of war at Goliad.
April 21, 1836: The Battle of San Jacinto occurs near the present-day city of Houston. Led by General Sam Houston, the Texian army defeats the Mexican forces, capturing Santa Anna himself. The battle lasts only 18 minutes and is a decisive victory for the Texians.
May 14, 1836: The Treaties of Velasco are signed, officially ending the Texas Revolution. Santa Anna, as a prisoner, signs the treaties recognizing Texas as an independent republic and agreeing to withdraw Mexican troops from the region.
October 22, 1836: Sam Houston is inaugurated as the first President of the Republic of Texas.
This timeline provides a general overview of the major events during the Texas Revolution, but it is important to note that there were numerous smaller engagements and political developments throughout the conflict.
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 county itself was formed in 1858 and named after James Hamilton Jr., a notable figure in Texas' fight for independence from Mexico. The first permanent settlement in the area was established around 1855 and became known as Hamilton, which later became the county seat. The early settlers primarily engaged in farming, ranching, and cotton production.
During the Civil War, many of Hamilton County's residents joined the Confederate Army to defend the Southern cause. The county suffered several attacks by Native American tribes aligned with the Union during the conflict. Following the war, the county gradually recovered, and the population began to grow with the introduction of new industries such as limestone quarrying and milling.
By the early 20th century, Hamilton County had become an established agricultural region, known for its cotton, corn, and cattle production. However, the Great Depression hit the area hard, causing economic decline and depopulation. In recent decades, the county has diversified its economy, incorporating sectors like manufacturing, education, and healthcare.
Today, Hamilton County is a vibrant community that combines its rich history with modern development. Visitors can explore historical landmarks, enjoy recreational activities in the surrounding natural beauty, and experience the warmth of its friendly residents. The county continues to thrive, attracting new residents and businesses while cherishing its deep-rooted heritage.
Hamilton County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Hamilton County, Texas.
- 1853: Hamilton County is created as a new county in the state of Texas.
- 1858: The county seat is established in the town of Hamilton.
- 1872: The Fort Worth and Rio Grande Railway is built through Hamilton County.
- 1882: The first newspaper, called The Hamilton Herald, is published in Hamilton.
- 1902: Hamilton County Courthouse, the current courthouse, is completed.
- 1929: The Great Depression causes economic hardships for Hamilton County residents.
- 1948: The town of Evant experiences a devastating tornado, resulting in multiple casualties.
- 1956: Lake Proctor is constructed as a recreational reservoir in Hamilton County.
- 1996: The Texas Historical Commission designates the city of Hico as a Texas Main Street community.
- 2017: Hamilton County celebrates its 165th anniversary since its establishment.