William J. Withers Home
The Withers family first came to Jasper County in 1861. Five years later, Valentine J. Withers purchased 1,000 acres of land, including this site. With one of the boundaries of his land bordering on the Neches River, Withers established a ferry service that provided public transportation for a three-county area.
In 1875 Withers' son William married Margaret L. Richardson, who was a descendant of pioneer area settlers. They built their home at this site, on land given to them by Valentine Withers, in the community that became known as Cairo Springs. The house was designed and constructed by William, who also built some of its furnishings.
William Withers, who at one time had assisted his father with the ferry operation, was a successful farmer and merchant. In 1894 he was elected Jasper County Commissioner and served for four years. He died in 1917, a victim of the influenza epidemic.
The Withers homestead, which has remained continuously in the family, serves as a reminder of Jasper County's early history. Its close link to the settlement of Cairo Springs is an important element in the area's rich heritage
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.
Texas has been a major oil-producing state for over a century. The first big oil discovery in Texas was the Spindletop field near Beaumont in 1901, which set off a massive oil boom that transformed the state's economy and made Texas one of the wealthiest states in the country.
Jasper County was officially established on February 1, 1836, just weeks before the independence of Texas from Mexico. The county was named after William Jasper, a hero from the American Revolutionary War. In the early days of the county, logging and farming were the primary economic activities. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further contributed to the growth and development of Jasper County.
The county experienced significant changes during the 20th century. The discovery of oil in the East Texas Oil Field in the early 1930s brought an economic boom to Jasper County, leading to increased population and infrastructure development. However, the area also faced challenges, including racial tension and civil rights struggles during the mid-20th century.
Today, Jasper County continues to thrive, with a diverse economy including oil and gas, timber, agriculture, and tourism. The county is known for its natural beauty, including the scenic Angelina National Forest and the serene waters of the Sam Rayburn Reservoir. Jasper, the county seat, serves as a hub for commerce and government activities. The history and heritage of Jasper County are celebrated through various cultural events and museums, ensuring that its past remains an integral part of its present and future.
Jasper County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Jasper County, Texas.
- 1835 - Jasper County is established on February 1st.
- 1846 - The county seat is moved from Bevilport to Jasper.
- 1861-1865 - Jasper County residents participate in the American Civil War.
- 1881 - The Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway is built through Jasper County.
- 1901 - The Spindletop oil strike near Beaumont triggers an oil boom in the area, benefiting Jasper County.
- 1950s-1970s - The construction of Sam Rayburn Reservoir boosts the county's economy and recreational opportunities.
- 1996 - Jasper County experiences racial tension and protests following the murder of James Byrd Jr.