Bennett and West Ranch
Historical marker location:Cattlemen John M. Bennett (1831-1920) and George W. West (1851-196) began buying ranch land here in Jackson County in 1875. Bennett was born in Alabama, moved to Texas in 1837, and earned his capital by driving cattle herds up the Chisholm Trail to Kansas. West was also from Alabama and settled in the Sweet Home area of Lavaca County (about 50 miles NW) near Bennett's family.
The partners acquired 35,375 acres between the Garcitas and Lavaca rivers, rich with prairie grasses before the invasion of brush thickets. In 1882 West sold his half interest to his brothers Ike and Sol. By 1902 the ranch was running 7,000 head of cattle, bred from longhorns and herefords. That year Ike withdrew from the partnership and sold off his one-fourth interest in the land and cattle herd.
Neither Bennett nor the Wests lived at the ranch. The nearby frame house dates from 1902 as the ranch headquarters and foreman's residence. When Bennett and Sol West died in 1920, the land was divided between the Bennetts on the Garcitas River, and the Wests on the Lavaca River.
From 1924 to 1978, three generations of the James family, beginning with Daniel Arthur James (1886-1943), served as foremen of the Bennett Ranch
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 is also home to the world's largest honky-tonk, Billy Bob's Texas in Fort Worth. The venue covers three acres and can hold up to 6,000 people.
In the early 19th century, the area that is now La Salle County became a part of the Republic of Texas after the Texas Revolution. It was named after René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, a French explorer who had ventured through the region in the 1680s. The county was officially established in 1858, and its first county seat was Old Frio City.
The discovery of oil in the mid-20th century brought significant changes to La Salle County. The influx of oil workers and the establishment of oil fields led to a boom in the local economy and population. With the growth of the oil industry, the county seat was moved from Cotulla to Encinal in 1881, and then back to Cotulla in 1892, where it remains today.
Over the years, La Salle County has also played a significant role in the ranching industry, with large cattle ranches dominating the landscape. Today, the county is known for its oil and gas production, as well as its agricultural activities. Despite the modernization and changes, La Salle County's history and heritage are still celebrated, and its past is evident in its cultural landmarks and traditions.
La Salle County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of La Salle County, Texas.
- 1689 - French explorer, Henri Joutel, discovers La Salle County.
- 18th century - Spanish colonization of the area begins.
- 1821 - The area becomes a part of the Mexican Empire after gaining independence from Spain.
- 1836 - Texas declares independence from Mexico.
- 1848 - Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ends the Mexican-American War, and La Salle County becomes a part of the United States.
- 1858 - La Salle County is officially established.
- 1883 - The first railroad reaches La Salle County, leading to growth and development.
- 1900s - The discovery of oil and gas resources boosts the county's economy.
- 1920s - The Great Depression negatively impacts the county's economy.
- 1960s - The establishment of the Eagle Ford Shale formation leads to increased oil and gas production.
- Present - La Salle County continues to be a hub for oil and gas exploration and production.