Historical Marker

Lubbock Lake Site

Historical marker location:
Hwy 84, approx. 1/2 mi NW of Loop 289 overpass, Lubbock, Texas
( Hwy 84, approx. 1/2 mi NW of Loop 289 overpass)
Marker installed: 1970
Marker size: 27" x 42"

This bend in the Yellowhouse Canyon has seen the passing of man from the time of the prehistoric mammouth-hunting Llano culture of 12,000 years ago. An archeological site of great importance lies in the bottom of this valley; here is recorded the evidence of periodic visits by nomadic hunting groups and plains Indians. Springs and water holes made this spot a favored hunting and camping site in prehistoric and early historic times, but it is noted mainly for providing the first radio-carbon date on the Folsom culture of 10,000 years ago and the association of man-made artifacts with bones of extinct mammoths, horses, bison, and camels.

Some historians think Coronado passed here in 1541 and Spanish expeditions coming from Santa Fe to the Concho River looking for fresh-water pearls passed this way in the middle 1600s. Later visitors were buffalo hunters and Indian fighters in the 1870s.

A general store--first commercial building in the area--was built here about 1880 by George W. Singer. Patronized by ranchers, cowboys, and dwindling numbers of buffalo hunters and friendly Indians, Singer's became a post office in 1884 and a widely known landmark by 1885. The building burned, 1886

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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Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
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Lubbock County, Texas has a rich and diverse history that stretches back thousands of years. The area was first inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Apache, Comanche, and Kiowa. In the 19th century, exploration and settlement by Europeans began in the region. In 1876, Col. T.S. Lubbock, a former Confederate officer, established a town named Lubbock, which would later become the county seat.

During its early years, Lubbock County primarily relied on farming and ranching for economic development. The arrival of the railroad in 1909 brought significant growth and opportunities for trade and transportation. The agricultural industry thrived, with cotton becoming a dominant crop, leading the area to be known as the "Hub of the Plains."

In the 20th century, Lubbock County experienced periods of economic booms and busts. The Great Depression hit the county hard, but it rebounded during World War II due to the establishment of Reese Air Force Base, which brought an economic boost and increased population. The post-war era saw the growth of education and the establishment of Texas Tech University in 1923, further contributing to the county's economy and cultural development.

In recent decades, Lubbock County has continued to evolve and diversify its economy. The oil industry plays a significant role, with the discovery of the Permian Basin and advancements in drilling techniques leading to increased oil production. The county has also seen growth in healthcare, education, and technology sectors. Today, Lubbock County remains a vibrant and dynamic community, with a rich history that has shaped its identity.

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

  • 1876 - Lubbock County is officially formed on August 21.
  • 1890 - The first permanent settlement is established in Lubbock County.
  • 1901 - The first railroad is built in the county.
  • 1904 - Lubbock becomes the county seat.
  • 1909 - Texas Tech University is established in Lubbock.
  • 1923 - The West Texas Fair is first held in Lubbock County.
  • 1930 - Lubbock County's population reaches 26,678.
  • 1942 - The United States Air Force establishes an airfield in the county, which later becomes Reese Air Force Base.
  • 1951 - The Lubbock tornado, one of the deadliest in U.S. history, strikes the county.
  • 1967 - Lubbock County's population surpasses 150,000.
  • 1989 - The Lubbock County Courthouse, which was destroyed in a fire, is reconstructed.
  • 1993 - The Lubbock Lake Landmark, an archaeological and natural history preserve, is designated a National Historic Landmark.