Historical Marker

Taylor Camp Site, 1846

Historical marker location:
S. 6th St., Kingsville, Texas
( S. 6th St. (Bus. 77), west side near intersection with Jay Vee Ave.)
Marker installed: 1964
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In 1846 Zachary Taylor's army marched from Corpus Christi to the Rio Grande. On March 10,11, 12, 13, the four regiments in succession camped at this spot on Santa Gertrudis Creek. War with Mexico over the boundary of Texas began soon. The first battles -- Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma -- occurred near present Brownsville. General Mariano Arista led the Mexican army. The results of the war: the boundary of Texas was fixed at the Rio Grande; the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo gave the United States New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and California; a notable group of men got training for later public service. Of the 251 officers camped here, many rose to national fame.

The Honor Roll

Twelve leaders in the Texas battles gave name to United States forts in Texas: Wm. G. Belknap, Jacob Brown, J. E. Blake, W. W. S. Bliss, Theodore L. Chadbourne, James Duncan, Clinton R. Gates, Zebulon P. M. Inge, George T. Mason, J. B. McIntosh, Samuel Ringgold, William Jenkins Worth. Many who camped here became commanders of great armies in the Civil War. Among them: Augur, Bee, Bragg, Kirby Smith, Longstreet, Meade, Pemberton, Reynolds, Twiggs, Whistler. Two of them -- Zachary Taylor and Ulysses Simpson Grant -- became President of the United States.

Kleberg County Historical Survey Committee 1964

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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The state of Texas was once an independent country known as the Republic of Texas. It gained independence from Mexico in 1836 and was a separate nation until it was annexed by the United States in 1845.
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Kleberg County, located in southern Texas, has a rich and diverse history that traces back to its settlement by Native American tribes. The area was primarily inhabited by the Karankawa tribe, known for their hunting and fishing skills. European influence began in the 18th century when Spanish explorers arrived in the area.

The county's namesake, Robert Justus Kleberg, played a significant role in its development. Kleberg, a German immigrant, moved to Texas in the 1830s and became involved in politics and land acquisition. In the late 19th century, he purchased a large tract of land in the area, which eventually became the basis for the founding of Kleberg County.

The county witnessed significant growth and development in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, due in part to the arrival of the railroad. The St. Louis, Brownsville, and Mexico Railway played a crucial role in connecting Kleberg County to the rest of Texas and facilitating economic growth through the transportation of goods and people.

Another major contributor to the county's history is the King Ranch, one of the largest ranches in the United States. Established in the 1850s by Richard King and Captain Mifflin Kenedy, the King Ranch played a vital role in Kleberg County's economy and development. Today, it remains an integral part of the county and a symbol of its rich ranching heritage.

In recent years, Kleberg County has seen further growth, particularly in the field of oil and gas production. The county's natural resources have led to the establishment of various industries, providing employment opportunities and contributing to its overall economic prosperity. With a blend of historical significance and modern growth, Kleberg County continues to evolve and thrive while honoring its past.

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

  • 1854 - Kleberg County was established from territory previously part of Nueces County.
  • 1858 - Captain Richard King and Gideon K. Lewis established the King and Lewis Ranch along the Santa Gertrudis Creek.
  • 1875 - King acquired the entirety of Lewis' interest in the ranch.
  • 1903 - A post office named Kleberg was established.
  • 1913 - Kleberg County was officially organized, and the town of Kleberg became the county seat.
  • 1918 - The county seat was moved to the newly formed town of Kingsville.
  • 1925 - The Texas Legislature formed the Kleberg County Water Control and Improvement District No. 1 to oversee irrigation and drainage in the area.
  • 1933 - The Naval Air Station Kingsville was established.
  • 1940 - Kenedy County was formed from parts of Kleberg County.
  • 1954 - Hurricane Alice struck Kleberg County, causing significant damage.
  • 1980s - The King Ranch remained a significant economic and cultural influence in the county.