Mexia Oil Boom

Historical marker location:
SH 14, S side of Mexia, Mexia, Texas
( SH 14 on west side of of road at southern city limits to Mexia)
Marker installed: 1967
Marker size: 27" x 42"

One of great free-wheeling oil booms of America before proration was enforced. Population in Mexia increased from 4,000 to 50,000 within days after oil discovery in 1920 at Rogers No. 1 Well, located 1.6 miles west of this marker, just off FM Road 1633

Earlier (in 1912), Blake Smith and other Mexia men had brought in a gas field. Believing oil also could be found here, they interested a veteran operator flamboyant wildcatter A. E. Humphreys-- who struck oil at 3,105 feet. By May 1912 gushers were flowing. Humphreys had 2,000 men; did a $4,000,000 business. His fortune later was estimated at $37,000,000.

The boom was on. Other companies were formed. A second renowned wildcatter, J. K. Hughes, shared the leadership in developing the field to capacity.

Millionaires, merchants, celebrities, operators and workers swarmed to Mexia for a share in the "Black Gold." Many undesirables came also, and one day were ousted by the thousands by Texas Rangers. In 1920-1921 first boom year, $5,000,000 went into construction; tanks for over 30 million barrels of oil were built; but even so storage area was inadequate for output.

A park and clubhouse developed near this site by Col. Humphreys-- mementos of boom-- are still in use.

1967

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.

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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.
Limestone County, Texas, is located in the central part of the state and has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Tawakoni and the Kickapoo. In the early 1830s, settlers from the United States began to arrive in the area, drawn by the fertile land and abundance of natural resources.

In 1833, Limestone County was officially established and named after a large limestone formation found in the region. The county quickly became an important agricultural center, with settlers growing cotton, corn, and wheat. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the county's economy and led to the growth of several towns, including Mexia and Groesbeck.

Limestone County experienced its share of hardships throughout its history. During the Civil War, the county faced economic challenges as many men left to fight in the conflict. Reconstruction brought further difficulties, with tensions rising between white settlers and newly freed African Americans. However, the county rebounded from these challenges, and by the late 19th century, Limestone County was known for its thriving agricultural industry and successful businesses.

Today, Limestone County continues to be primarily rural, with agriculture playing a significant role in the local economy. The county is also home to several historical sites, including Fort Parker State Park, which preserves the history of the Fort Parker settlement and the abduction of Cynthia Ann Parker by Native Americans. Limestone County's rich history and natural beauty make it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

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

  • 1833 - Limestone County is established as part of Mexican Texas
  • 1836 - Texas becomes independent from Mexico
  • 1846 - Limestone County is formally organized
  • 1860s - County experiences growth due to the expansion of the railroad network
  • 1873 - Groesbeck is chosen as the county seat
  • 1880s - Cotton and corn become major crops in the county
  • 1903 - First oil well is drilled in Limestone County
  • 1930s - County suffers from the effects of the Great Depression
  • 1940s - World War II brings economic recovery and increased population
  • 1950s - Local agricultural sector declines, but the oil industry continues to thrive
  • 1970s - County experiences economic growth with the opening of lignite coal mines
  • 1980s - Lignite coal industry declines, impacting the local economy
  • 2000s - County focuses on diversifying its economy and promoting tourism