William Delafield
Historical marker location:A veteran of the American Revolution; lived in this area as patriarch of a family whose history typifies westward movement of the people of the United States.
Son of Nicholas Delafield, a cooper in the English Navy in 1740s and an artisan living in Mecklenburg County, Va., as early as the 1760s. William Delafield as a lad of 16 served in the militia company of a neighbor, Capt. Reuben Vaughan, during the year 1779 when the former American colonies-- joined together against the tyranny of George III of Great Britain.
In 1785 William Delafield, then 22, moved to Georgia. There he brought up a family and in 1827 was awarded land on basis of his Revolutionary War service. By 1832 he and a son Nicholas lived in Alabama, where in 1836 both received land grants in Barbour County. The son in 1846 settled here in Harrison County, Tex.
By 1850 William Delafield also lived here, where he was known to neighbors as an elderly man who sat in a rocking chair relating stories of old times. He had lost a leg, probably in frontier fighting in Georgia against the Indians. His descendants include persons who have attained distinction in military and civilian life in Texas and other states
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 cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
During the mid-19th century, Harrison County played a significant role in the development of Texas. The discovery of oil in the nearby East Texas Oil Field in 1930 brought prosperity and growth to the county. This led to the establishment of several oil companies, driving economic development and creating job opportunities for local residents.
Harrison County was also deeply impacted by slavery and the Civil War. Prior to the war, the county was home to numerous large plantations that relied on enslaved labor for agricultural production. The war left a lasting impact on the county, which continued to struggle with racial tensions and inequality in the years following the war.
Today, Harrison County remains an important part of Texas history and boasts a diverse and vibrant community. The county is home to a number of historic sites, including the Texas and Pacific Railway Depot and the W.C. Dewberry Home and Museum, which showcase the area's rich cultural heritage. With its blend of history and modern progress, Harrison County continues to be a significant contributor to the growth and development of Texas.
Harrison County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Harrison County, Texas.
- 1839 - Harrison County established as a county in the Republic of Texas
- 1840 - Marshall becomes the county seat of Harrison County
- 1861-1865 - Harrison County residents serve in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War
- 1873 - Great Fire of Marshall destroys much of the city
- 1881 - First telephone exchange established in Marshall
- 1902 - Texas and Pacific Railway brings economic growth to the county
- 1930s - Oil discovery leads to an economic boom in Harrison County
- 1979 - East Texas Oil Museum opens in Kilgore, showcasing the region's oil industry
- 2005 - Hurricane Rita causes significant damage to the county
- 2020 - Present day