Historical Marker

The Trinity River

Marker installed: 1970
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Longest river lying entirely within Texas. The watershed of the Trinity covers 17,969 square miles, an area larger than any one of the nine smallest states of the Union. More than 20 per cent of the people in Texas reside in this area-- more people than in any one of the 24 least populous states.

The first recorded exclusive navigation rights to the Trinity were given by Mexico in 1833 to District Commissioner J. Francisco Madero, but before he could exercise his rights, the Texas revolution intervened.

As early as 1838, during the Republic of Texas, steamboat navigation had begun on the Trinity. The famous steamer "Ellen Frankland" plied it regularly. In 1852 a survey authorized by the

U. S. Congress reported that "the Trinity River is the deepest and least obstructed river in Texas". The river played a vital role in the Civil War, when a company of Alabama-Coushatta Indians transported key military supplies and boats from Anderson County to waiting Confederate officials in Liberty. Until 1874 steamers chugged from Galveston to as far north as Porter's Bluff in Ellis County. Under the River and Harbor Act of 1955, Congress authorized the comprehensive development of the Trinity Basin's water resources

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.

water topics
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
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Texas random facts
Liberty County, Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to prehistoric times. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Atakapa and Akokisa tribes. In the 18th century, European settlers began to arrive, with the Spanish establishing missions in the region.

The area now known as Liberty County was organized in 1831 when Mexico granted the land to Stephen F. Austin's colony. The city of Liberty, which eventually became the county seat, was established in 1831 as well. During the Texas Revolution, Liberty County played a significant role, with local residents actively supporting the cause of independence.

In the mid-19th century, Liberty County experienced rapid growth due to the arrival of settlers attracted to the region's fertile soil and natural resources. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century further fueled development and brought prosperity to the county. The oil boom led to an influx of people and increased economic activity, transforming the county's economy and landscape.

Throughout its history, Liberty County has faced challenges such as natural disasters, including hurricanes and floods, which have impacted the region. Despite these challenges, the county has thrived and continues to be an important part of Texas's cultural and economic fabric. Today, Liberty County is known for its historical landmarks, natural beauty, and vibrant communities that celebrate and preserve its rich heritage.

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

  • 1831 - Liberty County was established as a municipality of Mexico
  • 1835 - The Battle of Nacogdoches occurred during the Texas Revolution
  • 1836 - Texas declared independence from Mexico, leading to the formation of the Republic of Texas
  • 1846 - Liberty County became a part of the newly established state of Texas
  • 1854 - Liberty County's courthouse was constructed, which still stands today
  • 1861 - The American Civil War began, resulting in a significant impact on the county's economy
  • 1865 - The Civil War ended and Liberty County began the process of reconstruction
  • 1875 - The Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway reached Liberty County, spurring economic growth
  • 1900 - The Great Galveston Hurricane caused significant damage to Liberty County and the surrounding area
  • 1920s - Oil was discovered in Liberty County, leading to increased economic activity
  • 1937 - The Trinity River flood caused widespread devastation in Liberty County
  • 1950s - 1960s - The civil rights movement brought significant changes to Liberty County
  • 1983 - The San Jacinto River oil spill resulted in environmental damage
  • Present - Liberty County continues to thrive as a center for agriculture, oil, and natural gas industries