Historical Marker

Moulton's World War II Observation Tower

Historical marker location:
FM 532 E, Moulton, Texas
( 1 mile East of the intersection of TX. Hwy 95 and FM 532 E in Moulton, TX. on FM 532 E)
Marker installed: 2015
Marker size: 27" x 42" with post

Prior to the widespread use of radar, elevated observation towers placed along the coastline provided early warning against axis air attack during World War II. Organized in May 1941 by the U.S. Army Air Corps as the Ground Observer Corps (GOC), later the aircraft warning service (AWS), the 14,000-tower system was manned by 1.5 million civilian volunteers.

Located on elevated ground roughly one mile east of Moulton, just north of FM 532, the Moulton observation tower (Military I.D. Number “King 136”) was the only tower this far (approx. 100 miles) inland. The Moulton Lions Club sponsored construction and in August 1942 community volunteer organizations built the tower from surplus lumber and windows. The tower was elevated to a height of about 20 feet with a ramp style staircase to the central “blockhouse,” an enclosed observation room, 12-feet square with windows on all four sides and a wraparound porch, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside and sky. All civilian volunteers traveled to Randolph Field (San Antonio) where they were trained in aircraft identification. Upon graduation each received a certificate and lapel pin. Manned during daylight hours starting in September 1942, the tower had aircraft silhouette charts, binoculars, and a telephone directly connected to Randolph Field. When observers sighted aircraft they called in, identified the tower, stated the number seen or heard, and direction flown.

By May 1944 the danger of an axis invasion or air attack had dissipated and the GOC and AWS were deactivated. Within a few weeks the tower was torn down and sold for scrap. Moulton’s observation tower, and the patriotism and sacrifices of the Volunteers who manned it, serve as proud examples of America’s national home front spirit during the war

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.

military topics World War II
The enormous influence of Texas is largely due to the fact that it has implemented policies that emphasize economic freedom, and these policies can be replicated in other states
Arthur Laffer in The Laffer Center
Lavaca County, located in southeast Texas, has a rich and diverse history dating back to its settlement in the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and Tonkawa people, who thrived off the land's natural resources. European settlement began in the 1820s, following the arrival of Stephen F. Austin's Old Three Hundred colonists.

In 1846, Lavaca County was officially established by the Texas state legislature and was named after the Lavaca River, which runs through the area. The county quickly developed as a center for agriculture, with cotton becoming the primary cash crop. Many plantations were established, and slavery played a significant role in the local economy, impacting the social and cultural dynamics of the region.

During the Civil War, Lavaca County supported the Confederacy, with many of its residents volunteering for military service. The county experienced the effects of the war firsthand, including economic hardships and infrastructure damage. In the post-war years, the cotton industry faced several challenges, including the boll weevil infestation and the Great Depression, which led to a decline in agricultural dominance.

In the 20th century, Lavaca County transitioned into a more diversified economy, with the growth of oil and gas exploration. The discovery of oil in the early 1900s brought prosperity to the region, attracting new residents and businesses. Today, Lavaca County continues to be primarily rural with a strong agricultural heritage, while also benefiting from the contributions of the energy industry. The county's deep-rooted history and ongoing development make it a unique and historically significant part of Texas.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Lavaca County, Texas.

  • 1846 - Lavaca County is established by the Texas legislature, carved out of parts of neighboring counties.
  • 1849 - The first county seat is established in Hallettsville.
  • 1852 - The oldest known courthouse in Lavaca County is built in Hallettsville.
  • 1856 - The county's first newspaper, the Lavaca Democrat, is founded.
  • 1861-1865 - Lavaca County residents support the Confederacy during the Civil War.
  • 1867 - St. Peter's Lutheran Church, the oldest continuously active Lutheran congregation in Texas, is established in Hallettsville.
  • 1873 - The Galveston, Harrisburg and San Antonio Railway extends its tracks into Lavaca County.
  • 1881 - A new courthouse is constructed in Hallettsville to replace the original courthouse.
  • 1922 - The area around Lavaca County experiences a significant oil boom, leading to increased economic activity.
  • 1936 - The current Lavaca County Courthouse, a Classical Revival-style building, is completed in Hallettsville.
  • 1942-1945 - Many Lavaca County residents serve in World War II.
  • 1997 - The Lavaca County Courthouse is added to the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 2010 - Lavaca County celebrates its 150th anniversary since its establishment.
  • 2018 - Lavaca County continues to be a predominantly rural area with a strong agricultural industry.