Historical Marker

Jeff Davis County Jail

Historical marker location:
100 W. Woodward Ave., Fort Davis, Texas
( Fort Davis, 100 West Woodward Avenue)
Marker installed: 2010
Marker size: 27" x 42"

THE COMMUNITY OF FORT DAVIS GREW UP AROUND THE MILITARY POST OF THE SAME NAME, ESTABLISHED BY THE U.S. ARMY IN 1854 TO PROTECT TRAVELERS ON THE SAN ANTONIO-EL PASO ROAD. FORT DAVIS WAS DESIGNATED AS THE PRESIDIO COUNTY SEAT WHEN THE COUNTY WAS ORGANIZED IN 1875, BUT THE COUNTY SEAT WAS RELOCATED TO MARFA IN 1885. WHEN JEFF DAVIS COUNTY WAS ORGANIZED IN 1887, FORT DAVIS WAS AGAIN SELECTED AS A COUNTY SEAT.

THIS JAIL STRUCTURE WAS BUILT IN 1910-1911 ALONG WITH A NEW COUNTY COURTHOUSE; THE TWO BUILDINGS REPLACED AN ADOBE COURTHOUSE AND JAIL STRUCTURE BUILT IN 1880, WHEN FORT DAVIS WAS THE SEAT OF PRESIDIO COUNTY. ARCHITECT L.L. THURMAN OF DALLAS DESIGNED BOTH THE NEW COURTHOUSE AND JAIL, AND FALLS CITY CONSTRUCTION COMPANY OF LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY, WAS CONTRACTED TO CONSTRUCT BOTH BUILDINGS.

THE STRUCTURE IS A SMALL-SCALE EXAMPLE OF THE FORTRESS-STYLE JAILS AND PRISONS THAT WERE POPULAR IN THE UNITED STATES DURING THE 19TH CENTURY. THE ONE-STORY JAIL BUILDING WAS CONSTRUCTED WITH PRESSED CONCRETE BLOCK WHICH WAS PLASTERED AND SCORED TO RESEMBLE ASHLAR BLOCKS. A CRENELLATED PARAPET TOPS THE FOUR EXTERIOR WALLS. THE INTERIOR IS DIVIDED INTO FOUR ROOMS, INCLUDING A FRONT ENTRYWAY AND OFFICE, A KITCHEN, A JAILER’S BEDROOM, AND THE CELL BLOCK THAT INCLUDES THE ENTIRE REAR PORTION OF THE BUILDING.

THE JAIL RETAINED ITS ORIGINAL FUNCTION UNTIL 1978, WHEN THE BUILDING NO LONGER COMPLIED WITH CURRENT JAIL STANDARDS, AND IT WAS DECIDED THAT SENDING PRISONERS TO MARFA WOULD BE MORE ECONOMICALLY SOUND. AMONG OTHER TENANTS, THE COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE OCCUPIED THE BUILDING 2002-2009

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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Jeff Davis County, located in the Big Bend region of Texas, has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Apache and Comanche, who roamed the rugged landscape and established a connection with the region's natural surroundings. This changed in the mid-1800s, when European settlers began venturing into the area in search of new opportunities.

The county was officially established on March 15, 1887, and was named in honor of Jefferson Davis, the president of the Confederacy during the American Civil War. Early settlers faced numerous challenges including rugged terrain, harsh weather conditions, and conflicts with Native American tribes. However, the area's rich natural resources, including fertile land and abundant water sources, attracted more settlers and contributed to the economic growth of the county.

With the arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad in 1882, the county experienced a period of growth and development. This led to the establishment of the county seat, Fort Davis, which became a vibrant hub of commerce, trade, and military presence. Fort Davis, named after the former Secretary of War and President of the Confederate States, Jefferson Davis, played a significant role in protecting settlers from Native American raids during the late 19th century.

Throughout the 20th century, Jeff Davis County continued to evolve, with the development of agriculture, ranching, and tourism industries. The county's rich natural beauty, including the Chihuahuan Desert and the stunning vistas of the Davis Mountains, attracted visitors and outdoor enthusiasts. Today, Jeff Davis County remains a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural diversity, making it an intriguing destination for those seeking a glimpse into the rich heritage and captivating landscapes of the American Southwest.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Jeff Davis County, Texas.

  • 1881: Jeff Davis County is established on March 15.
  • 1882: The town of Fort Davis becomes the county seat.
  • 1884: The county courthouse is completed.
  • 1890: The population of Jeff Davis County is 883.
  • 1911: The Alamito Creek Reservation is established.
  • 1929: Oil is discovered in the county, leading to increased economic activity.
  • 1930: The population of Jeff Davis County is 3,937.
  • 1942: The Fort Davis National Historic Site is established.
  • 1963: Davis Mountains State Park opens.
  • 1992: The population of Jeff Davis County is 1,863.
  • 2003: The Madera Wind Farm begins operation.