Military Roads in Texas

Historical marker location:
Brackettville, Texas
( Highway 90 just east of Ft. Clark entrance, Brackettville)
Marker installed: 1968
Marker size: 27" x 42"

The routes that moved troops in early Texas often followed old Indian trails, usually were little more than deep wagon ruts. This one, the Chihuahua Road joining Ft. Clark with other southwest posts -- was widely used, 1850-1880. The Comanche War Trail, part of the Chihuahua Road, carried women, children, and horses stolen by Indians from Mexico to the north.

The Spanish era opened El Camino Real (the Old San Antonio Road) in 1691 to join Louisiana to Mexico. After 1836, Republic of Texas settlers demanded forts for safety from Indians; a main 1840 supply road followed present Austin-Dallas highway. Central National Road, 1844, linked Trinity and Red Rivers. (Its rules required all trees to be cut 12 inches or less from ground). From 1848 to 1860, surveys by U.S. led to a network of military roads in west central Texas. In 1849, Capt. Randolph B. Marcy blazed a West Texas trail used by California gold hunters. Famed U.S. 2nd Cavalry made Ft. Belknap - San Antonio Road a military artery in 1850s.

During Civil War, supplies moved from Mexico to Texas over the cotton road. The Indian campaigns of Capt. R.S. Mackenzie in 1870s opened trails across the staked plains; but by 1881, the railroad had begun to replace Texas' once-famous military routes.

(1968)

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.

Loading...
The world's first rodeo was held in Pecos, Texas in 1883. The event included bronco riding, calf roping, and bull riding.
Kinney County, Texas, located in the southwestern part of the state, has an interesting and diverse history. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Coahuiltecan Indians. In the 18th century, Spanish explorers began to explore the region and establish missions. One notable explorer was Pedro de Rivera, who led an expedition to the area in 1727.

In the early 19th century, Kinney County was primarily used as a hunting ground for the Lipan Apache and Comanche tribes. However, the arrival of Anglo settlers in the mid-1800s led to conflicts and tensions. The Battle of Bandera Pass, which took place in 1841, was a significant event in the region's history as it was one of the largest confrontations between Texas Rangers and Native American tribes in that era.

The creation of Kinney County occurred in 1850, and it was named after Texas Ranger and soldier Henry Lawrence Kinney. The county became an important center for cattle ranching in the late 19th century. The establishment of the railroad in the area further supported the growth of the county, as it provided a means for transporting goods and livestock.

Over the years, Kinney County has experienced economic ups and downs, with changes in agriculture and ranching practices impacting the local economy. Today, the county continues to be largely rural, with a focus on farming, ranching, and oil and gas production. The region's rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty make it an appealing destination for tourists and history enthusiasts.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Kinney County, Texas.

  • 1850 - Kinney County, TX is founded
  • 1876 - Fort Clark is established, becoming an important military post
  • 1884 - Kinney County becomes part of the Maverick County judicial district
  • 1910 - The town of Brackettville is incorporated
  • 1943 - The movie "The Alamo" is filmed at Fort Clark
  • 1978 - Fort Clark is added to the National Register of Historic Places
  • 2000 - The population of Kinney County reaches its peak at 4,467 residents