The Historic Persimmon Grove and Capt. Hill's Military Camp
Historical marker location:Up to 1860, pioneers found here a grand 100-square-mile prairie overgrown with high grass. The grove of persimmons 100 yards west of this spot formed an island on the north-central edge of the prairie. The locality's only trees, the persimmon grove was a gathering place where settlers swapped news or livestock and followed other casual pursuits.
When Texas and other states seceded from the Union and prepared for war, Lamar Cavalry Company No. 2 was organized here on June 10, 1861, by Methodist lay minister and Mexican war veteran James Hill (1827-90). Capt. Hill drilled his men for several months on the prairie beside the grove. Then it became known that militia laws would forbid such cavalry units to leave the state of Texas. Disbanding, Hill's men formed Company E, 9th Regiment, Texas Infantry, and were mustered into Confederate service on Nov. 26, 1861. In Ector's Brigade, French's Division, army of Lieutenant General Polk, they fought at Shiloh, Murfreesboro, Chickamauga, and other actions.
Farmers later plowed up the prairie and planted trees that obscured the persimmon grove. Yet is has become a landmark of pioneer days
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 known for its barbecue, and one of the most famous barbecue restaurants in the state is Kreuz Market in Lockhart. The restaurant has been in operation since 1900 and is still family-owned.
The county was established in 1841 and named after Mirabeau B. Lamar, the second president of the Republic of Texas. In the mid-19th century, Lamar County became a center for farming and agriculture, with cotton and corn being the primary crops. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the local economy.
During the American Civil War, Lamar County played a significant role. Many residents joined the Confederate Army, and the county became a key supplier of agricultural goods and troops to the Confederacy. After the war, the economy faced challenges and began diversifying into other industries such as timber and manufacturing.
In the 20th century, Lamar County experienced periods of growth and change. The discovery of oil in nearby counties led to increased economic development, and the county became a hub for the petroleum industry. Today, Lamar County continues to thrive with a strong agricultural base, as well as industries such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing, making it an important part of Texas' history and economy.
Lamar County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Lamar County, Texas.
- 1840: Lamar County founded and named after Mirabeau Buonaparte Lamar, the second President of the Republic of Texas
- 1841: First settlement established in the county
- 1843: County seat designated as Lafayette, later renamed Paris in 1844
- 1850: Population of the county reaches 3,064
- 1855: Paris becomes an incorporated town
- 1861: Lamar County supports secession and joins the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War
- 1877: The Texas and Pacific Railway reaches Paris, boosting the local economy and population growth
- 1878: A devastating fire destroys much of downtown Paris
- 1888: Paris becomes an independent school district
- 1893: The Sam Bell Maxey House, now a museum, is built in Paris
- 1922: Paris Junior College is established
- 1957: Construction begins on the Pat Mayse Lake, providing recreational opportunities for residents
- 1985: The county courthouse in Paris is added to the National Register of Historic Places
- 2010: The population of Lamar County reaches 49,793