Historic Courthouse

Knox County Courthouse

Benjamin, Texas

Built in 1888 and contractor Ferrier Brothers & Wirz.

2 story, stone, tower, cresting, dormers.

The Texas Historical Commission's (THC) nationally recognized and award-winning Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program (THCPP) has turned around the trend of disrepair and begun restoring these treasured historic landmarks. Texas has more historic courthouses than any other state. Today more than 240 courthouses still stand that are least 50 years old. About 80 were built before the turn of the 20th century. By the end of that century, most of these structures were significantly deteriorated due to inadequate maintenance, insensitive modifications or weather related damage. The Texas Historical Commission (THC) documented the condition of 50 of the state’s oldest courthouses in the late 1990s and determined that counties lacked the resources to preserve the buildings for future generations.

ranching sheriffs houses residential buildings
The cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Texas random facts
Knox County, Texas, located in the north-central part of the state, has a rich and storied history dating back to the mid-19th century. Originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, the area transitioned to Spanish control in the late 18th century. In 1836, Texas gained independence from Mexico, and the region subsequently became part of the Republic of Texas.

The area that would become Knox County was surveyed and opened for settlement in the late 1850s. Early pioneers, predominantly of European descent, began to establish farms and ranches. The county was officially organized in 1886 and named after Henry Knox, an American Revolutionary War general and the first U.S. Secretary of War.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Knox County experienced significant growth and development. The arrival of the cattle industry and the extension of railroads in the area brought prosperity and attracted new settlers. The discovery of oil in the county in the 1920s further spurred economic growth and provided employment opportunities for the local population.

In the modern era, Knox County continues to be primarily rural, with agriculture, ranching, and oil production remaining important industries. The county has also preserved its historical sites and landmarks, such as the community of Benjamin, which was designated a National Historic District in 1992. Today, Knox County is a close-knit community that cherishes its past while embracing the opportunities of the present.

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

  • 1858: Knox County is established and named after Henry Knox, the first Secretary of War for the United States.
  • 1879: The first courthouse in Knox County is built in Munday, which becomes the county seat.
  • Late 1800s: Ranching dominates the local economy, with large cattle operations covering the county.
  • 1920s: Oil is discovered in Knox County, leading to an economic boom as drilling companies flock to the area.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression hits Knox County hard, causing economic hardships for the residents.
  • 1969: The Fort Knox II Wind Farm, one of the largest wind farms in the United States, is built in Knox County.
  • 1980s: The farming industry experiences a decline due to droughts and changes in agricultural practices.
  • 1990s: Knox County becomes a popular destination for hunting enthusiasts, with its abundant deer and turkey population.
  • 2007: Knox City celebrates its centennial, marking 100 years since its founding.
  • 2010s: The county diversifies its economy, focusing on renewable energy, tourism, and small-scale agriculture.