Historical Marker

Fort Smith-Santa Fe Trail

Historical marker location:
1300 West Roosevelt, Borger, Texas
( Frank Phillips Junior College, gazebo near library and administration building)
Marker installed: 1974
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Josiah Gregg (1806-50) blazed the Fort Smith-Santa Fe Trail in 1840 as a shorter route between the U.S. and New Mexico. He crossed this site on March 17, 1840, while returning to Arkansas from a trading expedition to Santa Fe and Chihuahua. In a book, "Commerce of the Prairies", published in 1844, Gregg recommended the new route, which paralleled the Canadian River. Over 2,000 California-bound gold seekers traveled it in 1849. The largest wagon train of that year was accompanied by U.S. Army troops commanded by Captain Randolph B. Marcy (1812-87), who made a survey of the trail for a proposed national wagon road. Marcy's party crossed this site on June 9, 1849.

The extensive use of the Fort Smith-Santa Fe Trail in the early 1850s caused it to be considered as a favorable route for a transcontinental railroad. Lt. A. W. Whipple of the Army Corps of Engineer surveyed a possible route in the summer of 1853. By the late 1850s, emigrants were traveling a more southern road through El Paso, which was eventually to become the southern railroad route, and the Fort Smith-Santa Fe Trail fell into disuse and was finally abandoned.

In many places on the Plains, the wagon ruts are still visible in the undisturbed prairie sod.

(1974)

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.

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Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The Alamo, a mission in San Antonio, is perhaps the most famous historical site in Texas. It was the site of a key battle during the Texas Revolution in 1836.
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Hutchinson County, located in the Panhandle region of Texas, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Apache, Comanche, and Kiowa, who relied on the region's resources for their livelihoods. The first European explorers arrived in the area in the 16th century, with Spanish explorers exploring the region in search of riches and new lands.

In the 19th century, settlers began to make their way to Hutchinson County. The first permanent settlement was established in the early 1880s, with the establishment of the town of Plemons. The town served as a trading post and provided essential services to the surrounding ranching community. It wasn't until 1901 that the first oil well was drilled in the county, marking the beginning of the oil boom that would shape the future of Hutchinson County.

The discovery of oil led to a rapid influx of people and businesses to the region. Oil companies set up drilling operations, and towns such as Borger and Stinnett were founded to support the growing industry. This period of growth and prosperity continued throughout the early to mid-20th century, with oil production reaching its peak in the 1930s. The county became known as one of the leading oil-producing regions in Texas.

However, like many areas dependent on a single industry, Hutchinson County experienced ups and downs in its economic fortunes. The oil industry faced declining production and prices in the latter half of the 20th century, leading to a decline in population and economic activity. But in recent years, efforts have been made to diversify the county's economy, with a focus on industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and renewable energy.

Today, Hutchinson County continues to be home to a vibrant community, with a mix of traditional industries and newer, emerging sectors. The county's rich history, from its Native American roots to its oil boom days, is celebrated and preserved, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the legacy and progress of this dynamic region.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Hutchinson County, Texas.

  • 1876 - Hutchinson County is officially established. It is named after Andrew Hutchinson, a jurist and politician.
  • 1880s - The first ranches are established in the area as settlers move in and begin cattle ranching.
  • 1920s - Oil is discovered in Hutchinson County, leading to a boom in population and economic growth.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression hits the county hard, causing a decline in population and economic struggles.
  • 1950s - The oil industry experiences another boom, leading to increased drilling and production in Hutchinson County.
  • 1970s - The county experiences a decline in oil production, leading to economic challenges for the region.
  • 1990s - Efforts are made to diversify the economy, including the development of wind power projects in the area.
  • 2000s - Hutchinson County witnesses a resurgence in the oil and gas industry, leading to increased economic activity.