Pilkington Slough Ranch
Historical marker location:The Pilkington Slough Ranch, of the Collegeport Community, has been an area landmark for more than 100 years. The original owners of the bulk of this land were Daniel, Elias and Erastus Yeamans, three brothers who fought in the Texas War for Independence; Elias and Erastus died at the Battle of Goliad. The Yeamans family held the property until 1880, when noted cattleman Abel H. “Shanghai” Pierce and his brother, Jonathan E. Pierce, purchased it. By 1889, Jonathan was sole owner of this land. He soon established his headquarters on a site overlooking the Pilkington Slough, which was named for Dr. Samuel Pilkington, an early area physician. From the Pilkington House, one could view the mouth of the slough, which forms a backwater on the eastern shore of the Tres-palacios Bay. The ranch was so named for its proximity to the Pilkington Slough.
Through the years, tenants lived and worked on these lands, which are well suited for cattle ranching and rice cultivation. These tenants included members of the Ackerman, Huitt, Jackson and Slone families. The property also served as a community gathering place, occasionally hosting worship services, dances and other activities.
The Matagorda Land and Cattle Company acquired the ranch in 1970; it was sold to other owners in 2001. Today, the ranch remains a crucial link to early development of southwestern Matagorda County, reflecting the agricultural economy of the area and the spirit of the pioneering men and women who settled here.
(2008)
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.
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
In the 1820s, Anglo-American settlers began to arrive in Matagorda County, attracted by the fertile land and natural resources. The Mexican government granted land grants to individuals, and the population grew rapidly. The county played a significant role in the Texas Revolution, with the Battle of Matagorda taking place in 1832. The victory of Texan forces led to the expulsion of Mexican troops from the area.
The discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought a new wave of economic growth to Matagorda County. This led to the establishment of oil refineries and other industries, transforming the region's economy. However, the boom was followed by a period of decline due to the Great Depression and changes in the oil industry. The county experienced a resurgence in the late 20th century with the growth of tourism and recreational activities along the Gulf Coast.
Today, Matagorda County is known for its beautiful beaches and wetlands, attracting visitors from all over. It continues to be an important center for fishing, agriculture, and petrochemical industries. The county's history is preserved through museums and historical sites, providing a glimpse into its vibrant past.
Matagorda County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Matagorda County, Texas.
- 1825 - Stephen F. Austin established a colony around Matagorda Bay.
- 1832 - Matagorda County was officially created and named after the Matagorda Bay.
- 1834 - The town of Matagorda became the county seat.
- 1836 - Texas gained independence from Mexico.
- 1846 - Matagorda County became part of the state of Texas when it was admitted to the United States.
- 1856 - The town of Bay City was established as a trade center.
- 1875 - The county courthouse in Matagorda was destroyed by fire.
- 1882 - Bay City became the new county seat.
- 1942 - The Matagorda Island National Wildlife Refuge was established.
- 1998 - Hurricane Frances caused significant damage to Matagorda County.