Historical Marker

McCulloch County

Historical marker location:
Brady, Texas
( Courthouse Square, US 87/377 at US 190)
Marker installed: 1936
Marker size: 1936 Centennial - Highway Marker (pink granite)

Created Aug. 27, 1856. One of 128 counties formed from Bexar County that extended from the Rio Grande to the Panhandle, and as far west as El Paso. Named for Texas hero, Ben McCulloch, who fought in Texas Revolution, Indian, Mexican and Civil Wars. Indian and frontier hazards made growth slow and 20 years passed before buffalo were hunted off and ranches established. Organized Aug. 4, 1876 with Brady, county seat. Became ranch, farm, recreation center. Site of geographical center of Texas and 1831 Calf Creek Battle, where James Bowie, Alamo hero, defeated 100 Indians

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.

counties
This country, with its institutions, belongs to the people who inhabit it. Whenever they shall grow weary of the existing government, they can exercise their constitutional right of amending it, or exercise their revolutionary right to overthrow it
Abraham Lincoln in First Inaugural Address
McCulloch County is located in central Texas and was named after Benjamin McCulloch, a prominent figure in the Texas Revolution and the Confederate Army. The area was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Lipan Apache and Comanche before settlers arrived in the 1850s. In 1856, the county was officially established and Brady became the county seat.

During the Civil War, McCulloch County experienced its share of conflict as it was close to the western frontier. Many residents sympathized with the Confederacy, and Confederate troops were stationed in the area for defense. After the war, the county saw an influx of settlers from other parts of Texas and the United States. Agriculture, particularly farming and ranching, played a significant role in the county's economy during this time.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries brought several advancements to McCulloch County. The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s spurred economic growth and allowed for easier transportation of goods. This led to the establishment of cotton gins, lumber mills, and other industries in the area. The county also saw the development of schools, churches, and other community institutions.

In the modern era, McCulloch County continues to thrive as a rural community with a strong agricultural presence. It is known for its scenic beauty, including Brady Lake and the surrounding Hill Country. The county also celebrates its history and culture through events such as the Heart of Texas Country Music Festival and the McCulloch County Stock Show. Today, McCulloch County preserves its heritage while embracing the opportunities of the 21st century.

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

  • 1852 - McCulloch County is established.
  • 1856 - First settlers arrive in the area.
  • 1859 - Fort McKavett is built to protect settlers from Native American attacks.
  • 1873 - Brady becomes the county seat.
  • 1886 - San Saba and Northern Railway reaches Brady, boosting economic growth.
  • 1900 - Brady receives electric power and telephone services.
  • 1903 - St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church is established in Brady.
  • 1910 - The Brady Lake Reservoir is constructed.
  • 1913 - Brady National Bank, one of the first banks in the county, is founded.
  • 1928 - The Heart of Texas Fair and Rodeo begins in Brady.
  • 1936 - McCulloch County Airport is built.
  • 1984 - The Heart of Texas Historical Museum opens in Brady.
  • 1997 - Brady Creek Wind Farm, one of the largest wind farms in Texas, is built.