Historical Marker

McMullen County

Historical marker location:
Tilden, Texas
( In front of courthouse on corner of Highway 16 and Highway 72, Tilden.)
Marker installed: 1964
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Created 1858. Organized 1862. Abandoned because of bandit activities in thicket area during the Civil War. Reorganized 1877, with Tilden as county seat. Named for John McMullen (1785-1853), founded with James McGloin of the Irish Colony at San Patricio; President Pro Tempore of the General Council which governed Texas in 1836, on the eve of the Republic. Of the 254 Texas counties, 42 bear Indian, French or Spanish names. 10 commemorate such colonizers as McMullen and Stephen F. Austin, "Father of Texas". 12 honor Washington and other American patriots. 96 were named for men who fought in the Texas war for independence (15 dying at the Alamo), signed the Declaration of Independence from Mexico, or served as statesmen in the Republic of Texas. 23 have the names of frontiersmen and pioneers. 11 honor American statesmen who worked for the annexation of Texas; 10, leaders in Texas since statehood, including jurists, ministers, educators, historians, statesmen; and 36, men prominent in the Confederacy during the Civil War. Rockwall and 8 others have geographical names. San Jacinto and Val Verde were named for battles; Live Oak and Orange, for trees; and Mason for a fort.

1964

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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Texas random facts
McMullen County, located in the state of Texas, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the early 18th century. The region was first explored by Spanish conquistadors in the 1700s, who encountered Native American tribes such as the Coahuiltecans and Lipan Apaches. However, it was not until 1856 that the county itself was officially established.

The county is named after John McMullen, an Irishman who immigrated to Texas in the 1830s and played a significant role in its history. McMullen was known for his involvement in the Texas Revolution and his efforts to establish a colony in the area. Following his death, the county was named in his honor, signifying his impact on the region.

During the late 19th century, McMullen County experienced rapid growth and development. The discovery of oil in the early 1900s provided a major economic boost to the area, attracting numerous oil companies and workers. The oil industry continues to be a significant contributor to the county's economy today.

In recent years, McMullen County has become known for its vast ranchlands and wildlife. Its picturesque landscape and abundance of wildlife make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and nature lovers. Today, the county retains its rural character, while also benefiting from the economic opportunities provided by the energy industry.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of McMullen County, Texas.

  • 1858 - McMullen County is established
  • 1860s - The county experiences conflicts with Native American tribes
  • 1870s - The first post office is established in Tilden
  • 1881 - The county courthouse is built
  • 1920s - The oil boom brings significant economic growth to the county
  • 1930s - The Great Depression affects the county's economy
  • 1960s - Intensified oil and gas production leads to increased prosperity
  • 1980s - The oil industry experiences a downturn, impacting the county's economy
  • 2000s - McMullen County experiences a resurgence in oil and gas activity