Brin House
Historical marker location:Hillsboro attorney Robert T. Jones and his wife Mary (Abbott) commissioned William M. Keith to build this Victorian residence in 1896. In 1917 it was purchased by Louis and Rebecca (Watelsky) Brin. Born in Poland of Jewish descent, Louis Brin established a Hillsboro dry goods store at the age of sixteen and later became a prominent area merchant and civic leader. Members of the Brin family owned the home until 1980.
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1981
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 state flower of Texas is the bluebonnet. The flower blooms in the spring and is a common sight along the highways and in fields throughout the state.
In the early 1800s, settlers from the United States began to arrive in Hill County, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for farming. The Republic of Texas was established in 1836, and Hill County was founded in 1853, named after Dr. George Washington Hill, an early settler and land surveyor. The county seat was initially established in Hillsborough but later moved to Hillsboro.
During the Civil War, Hill County was divided in its loyalties, with some residents supporting the Confederacy and others remaining loyal to the Union. The war took a toll on the area, leading to economic decline and agricultural setbacks. However, with the end of the war and efforts to rebuild, the county gradually recovered.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Hill County saw significant growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s brought new opportunities for trade and transportation, leading to the establishment of new towns and communities. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, became a mainstay of the county's economy, with numerous cotton gins and mills scattered throughout the area.
Today, Hill County is a vibrant community with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, healthcare, education, and manufacturing. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, with historic landmarks and sites, museums, and annual events that celebrate its history. From its early Native American roots to its role in the development of Central Texas, Hill County continues to thrive as a testament to the tenacity and perseverance of its residents.
Hill County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Hill County, Texas.
- 1853: Hill County established as one of the 36 original counties of Texas.
- 1854: Hillsboro becomes the county seat.
- 1860s: Hill County experiences rapid growth due to the cattle industry and the arrival of the railroad.
- 1873: The Hill County Courthouse, a two-story wooden structure, is completed.
- 1882: The Courthouse is destroyed by a fire.
- 1886: Construction of a new courthouse begins.
- 1890: The current Hill County Courthouse, a magnificent Romanesque Revival architectural style building, is completed.
- 1900s: Hill County faces numerous challenges, including droughts, the Great Depression, and the decline of the cotton industry.
- 1940s: Hill County experiences a surge in population and economic growth due to World War II and the establishment of military bases in the region.
- 1950s-1960s: Construction of Lake Whitney provides recreational opportunities and helps boost the local economy.
- 2000s: Hill County continues to develop and diversify its economy, focusing on agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.