Jefferson
Historical marker location:Home to the Caddo Indians for centuries, this area of Texas attracted Anglo-American colonists to settle here in the early 1800s. Founded in 1839, Jefferson developed along a double-grid pattern. Daniel Nelson Alley platted the townsite in a true north-south and east-west pattern, while Allen Urquhart drew a plan with streets leading diagonally to and from Big Cypress Bayou.
Jefferson was a center of commerce and an important shipping point on the Red River system. Riverboats arrived at the wharves daily, making it a major inland port of entry for Texas pioneers. It was the seat of Cass County from 1846 to 1852, and was named seat of the new county of Marion in 1860.
During the Civil War Jefferson served as a major supply center for the Confederacy. The late 1860s saw the imposition of martial law by Federal reconstruction troops, and a devastating fire in 1868 destroyed much of the central business district.
Destruction of a massive logjam on the Red River in November 1873 diverted the river's flow and lowered the water in Big Cypress Bayou. The decline of Jefferson's economy due to the loss of its port continued until 20th-century tourism began to revive the town. (1990)
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 love of football, and the state has produced many great football players, including legends like Tom Landry, Earl Campbell, and Vince Young.
The early settlement in Marion County was primarily driven by the sawmill industry, as many settlers arrived to exploit the vast pine forests in the area. Lumber became a major source of economic growth, leading to the establishment of several sawmills and the development of a thriving logging community. However, the decline of the timber industry in the early 20th century had a significant impact on the county's economy.
During the Civil War, Marion County was divided in its loyalties, with some residents supporting the Confederacy and others supporting the Union. The county saw several skirmishes between Confederate and Union forces, with the town of Jefferson acting as an important Confederate supply depot. After the war, many of the county's plantations were abandoned, and former slaves faced economic and social challenges.
In the 20th century, Marion County experienced a revival in its economy through the tourism industry. The historic town of Jefferson, with its well-preserved architecture and rich history, became a popular destination for visitors seeking to experience the charm of the Old South. Today, Marion County boasts a thriving tourism sector, attracting visitors with its historic sites, museums, festivals, and recreational activities in its beautiful natural surroundings.
Marion County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Marion County, Texas.
- 1837: Marion County is established by the Republic of Texas.
- 1841: Jefferson is chosen as the county seat.
- 1845: Texas becomes a state.
- 1861-1865: Marion County residents participate in the American Civil War.
- 1867: Marion County votes against secession from the United States.
- 1873: Texas and Pacific Railway completes a railroad line through the county.
- 1905: A new courthouse is built in Jefferson.
- 1937: The discovery of oil leads to an economic boom in the county.
- 1969: The Texas Historical Commission designates Jefferson as a National Historic Landmark.
- 1984: Jefferson is named the "Bed and Breakfast Capital of Texas."