Sargent-Rugeley-Herreth House
By the turn of the twentieth century, Bay City was a flourishing community with houses and buildings constructed all over the city. John Thomas Sargent (1834-1911), a prominent cattleman, purchased a home in Matagorda for his family after a devastating storm destroyed his home and took the lives of his wife and father. In 1881, John married Jane Ann Bates (1858-1945). In 1905, Jane purchased several lots in the Hamilton Heights subdivision, one of the highest points in Bay City. John Sargent assisted in the design of the new home planned for his daughter, Catherine Minna Sargent Rugeley (1884-1967), and her husband, James Walcott Rugeley (1874-1935). The home was often referred to as “Miss Kate Rugeley’s Home,” although John and Jane also lived in the house for a time.
J.S. Gibson was hired in 1905 to construct the three-story home in the Victorian style. However, after the death of John Sargent, the home was remodeled with Prairie and Greek Revival elements. Features include a large veranda, beveled and stained glass, cypress shutters for storm protection, and lumber shipped from Calcasieu Parish in Louisiana. This stately home boasts 26 rooms, including bathrooms and pantries with winding staircases, transom windows and custom hardware.
John and Jane Sargent were active in the communities of Matagorda and Bay City, involved in the Masonic Lodge, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, and the Bay City Public Library Association. Their son-in-law, James Rugeley, owned a local cotton gin and was also a respected leader in the community. The home was in the Sargent-Rugeley family until 1969.
RECORDED TEXAS HISTORIC LANDMARK – 2015
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 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.
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 concise overview of the key events in the history 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.