Historical Marker

Arden Community

Historical marker location:
FM 853, Mertzon vicinity, Texas
( on FM 853, about 14 mi .NE of Mertzon)
Marker installed: 1979
Marker size: 18" x 28"

This ranching community was named for John Arden, a sheep raiser who arrived in 1876. After 1900, small homesteaders moved into the area. Joe Funk gave land for a school and cemetery in 1903. Baptist Church of Christ and Methodist congregations shared the schoolhouse for worship. Camp meetings were held at "the Grove" on Rocky Creek. In 1916 the school moved to a brick building at this site. Following a series of droughts, Arden began to decline. The post office closed in 1942 and the school in 1947. A frame polling station replaced the brick schoolhouse here. (1979)

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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Texas random facts
Irion County is located in central Texas, named after Robert Anderson Irion, a Republic of Texas politician. The area has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times, with evidence of Native American settlements along the North Concho River. In the mid-19th century, the region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Lipan Apache and Comanche.

In the 1860s, settlers began to arrive in what is now known as Irion County. The first permanent settlements were established near the North Concho River, with ranching and farming becoming the primary economic activities. The area's abundant water supply and fertile soil made it an attractive destination for those looking to build a prosperous life on the frontier.

The county was officially formed in 1889, after being carved out of Tom Green County. Mertzon, named after Henry Mertz, a local rancher, was chosen as the county seat. The growth of the county continued throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as more settlers arrived and established businesses, schools, and churches.

Today, Irion County remains a rural community with a strong agricultural heritage. Ranching and farming are still important industries, with sheep, cattle, and crops like cotton, peanuts, and sorghum being prominent. The county also boasts several historical sites, including the Irion County Courthouse, which has been serving as the center of local government for over a century.

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

  • 1858 – Irion County is established and named after Robert Anderson Irion, a secretary of state for the Republic of Texas.
  • 1889 – Sherwood is chosen as the county seat.
  • 1890 – The Kansas City, Mexico and Orient Railway is completed, passing through Irion County.
  • 1929 – Mertzon becomes the new county seat, replacing Sherwood.
  • 1934 – Mertzon's first public school is built.
  • 1951 – The Irion County Historical Survey Committee is established to preserve local history.
  • 1972 – The Irion County Jail, now a historical landmark, is constructed.
  • 1983 – The Irion County Historical Society is formed.
  • 1998 – The Mertzon Heritage Museum opens, showcasing local history and artifacts.
  • 2017 – Irion County celebrates its 159th anniversary.