Historical Marker

Holmes & Bierschwale Law and Land Office

Historical marker location:
421 McKavett St., Mason, Texas
( (McKavett St. is also US 87 N))
Marker installed: 2000
Marker size: Medallion & Plate

Attorney Henry Holmes (1836-1895) moved to Mason after serving in the U.S. Army and continued his public service as county attorney, justice of the peace and personal secretary to Gov. Lawrence Sullivan Ross. About 1883 he had this sandstone building constructed for his office. Holmes and Mason County native Charles Bierschwale (1862-1945), whose career was in land survey and sales, became business partners by 1888, and this structure housed their law and land office. The vernacular commercial building remained in the Bierschwale family until 1994. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 2000

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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Mason County, located in central Texas, has a rich and diverse history that spans back over a century. The region was originally home to indigenous tribes such as the Tonkawa, Lipan Apache, and Comanche, who inhabited the area for thousands of years prior to European colonization. In the early 19th century, Spanish and Mexican settlers began to establish settlements and ranches in the region.

In 1858, Mason County was officially organized, named after Fort Mason, which had been established nearby in 1851. The town of Mason quickly developed and became a central hub for the surrounding ranches and agricultural activity. The economy was largely based on ranching and farming throughout the 19th century.

However, Mason County is also infamous for the "Mason County War" that occurred between 1875 and 1876. This conflict, primarily fueled by tensions between German settlers and Mexican-American residents, resulted in several violent skirmishes and feuds. The dispute was largely over cattle rustling and land ownership, and it claimed the lives of numerous individuals on both sides.

Over time, the tensions eased, and Mason County continued to grow and develop. Today, the county boasts a peaceful rural atmosphere with a mix of ranching, agriculture, and tourism. The historic downtown area of Mason has been well-preserved, and visitors can explore its old buildings, museums, and shops. Overall, Mason County's history is a testament to the challenges and successes of early settlers in Texas and the ongoing efforts to preserve its heritage.

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

  • 1858: Mason County is established and named after Fort Mason.
  • 1861-1865: Mason County suffers from the effects of the American Civil War.
  • 1870: The town of Mason is incorporated.
  • 1877: The Mason County Courthouse is constructed, which still stands today as the oldest continuously used courthouse in the state of Texas.
  • 1887: The Mason County Jail is built, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 1900: The population of Mason County reaches its peak with over 10,000 residents due to the local granite industry.
  • 1919: The granite industry declines, leading to a decrease in population.
  • 1930: The population of Mason County drops to its lowest point in over a century.
  • 1940s-1950s: Ranching becomes the leading industry in Mason County.
  • 1974: The Eckert James River Bat Cave Preserve is established, providing habitat for millions of Mexican free-tailed bats.
  • 2006: Mason County celebrates its 150th anniversary.