Historical Marker

The Daily Sentinel

Historical marker location:
N. Fredonia Street, Nacogdoches, Texas
( Parking lot on west side of N. Fredonia St., between E. Hospital and Commerce streets)
Marker installed: 2012
Marker size: 27" x 42"

The first newspapers in Texas, beginning in 1813, all had direct links to Nacogdoches. The leading family in the newspaper business was that of Col. R.D. Orton and his nephews, Robert W. (R.W.) and Giles Haltom. In 1899, following years of weekly newspapers, R.W., Giles and W.H. Harris established a daily newspaper under the name The Daily Phone. After six months, the paper became The Daily Sentinel. Initially, R.W. edited and managed The Daily Sentinel and Giles operated the presses. In addition to editorials, the Sentinel featured special editions to push for civic improvements, to note community accomplishments or to highlight the amenities of the region. A Weekly Sentinel was founded in 1900 and operated until 1936. When R.W. was elected to the Texas State Legislature in 1904, Giles took over the paper. The change became permanent when R.W. became ill and died in 1907.

In 1918, responding to the clamor for news during World War I, an Associated Press wire service was added which drastically changed the format and content of the paper. Giles Haltom led the Sentinel until 1944 when it was sold to a local consortium. After World War II, Victor B. Fain returned to the Sentinel as editor. Fains editorials, leadership and positive influence guided Nacogdoches through many crises. The paper moved locations in October 1950 to North Fredonia Street and featured modern efficient equipment. In 2007, the Sentinel was honored with the Gov. James M. Cox public service award. Over the last century, the Sentinel emerged from its frontier past to become a record of the movements, history and progress of Nacogdoches. (2012)

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.

newspapers
Students in Texas know the Alamo, but not the Alamo in American history. It's all about the Alamo as a place of Texas history
Diane Ravitch in Interview with Texas Public Radio
Nacogdoches County, Texas has a rich and deeply rooted history. The area's first inhabitants were indigenous Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Lipan Apache. European exploration reached the region in the early 18th century, with Spanish explorers establishing missions and settlements. Nacogdoches, founded in 1779, is the oldest town in Texas and served as a vital center for trade and commerce during the Spanish and Mexican periods.

During the Texas Revolution, Nacogdoches County played a significant role. It became a hotbed of support for the Texian cause, hosting important political meetings and serving as a training ground for volunteers. In 1836, General Sam Houston rallied troops in Nacogdoches before leading them to victory in the Battle of San Jacinto, securing Texas' independence from Mexico.

The county's economy flourished in the mid-19th century, driven by the booming lumber industry. Abundant pine forests attracted sawmills, leading Nacogdoches to become known as the "Gateway City to the Piney Woods." Railroads further facilitated economic growth, linking the area to major markets and fueling the development of thriving towns.

In the 20th century, Nacogdoches County continued to evolve, diversifying its economy beyond lumber and timber. The establishment of Stephen F. Austin State University in 1923 brought educational and cultural opportunities to the area. Today, Nacogdoches County retains its rich historical character while embracing modernization, attracting visitors with its vibrant downtown, historical sites, and natural beauty.

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

  • 1721 - Spanish settlers establish a mission called Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe de los Nacogdoches, marking the earliest European presence in the area.
  • 1779 - Nacogdoches becomes the easternmost settlement in Spanish Texas when the Spanish government authorizes the town's relocation.
  • 1826 - Mexican authorities officially separate Nacogdoches from the Department of Bexar and establish it as a municipality.
  • 1836 - The Battle of Nacogdoches occurs during the Texas Revolution, with Texian forces defeating Mexican troops.
  • 1838 - Nacogdoches becomes the first English-speaking settlement to be incorporated by the Republic of Texas.
  • 1845 - Nacogdoches County is established as one of the original counties of the newly admitted state of Texas.
  • 1870 - The arrival of railroads spurs economic growth and development in Nacogdoches County.
  • 1902 - Stephen F. Austin State Normal School (now Stephen F. Austin State University) is established in Nacogdoches.
  • 1938 - The Texas State Railroad begins operating, providing transportation for timber and passengers.
  • 1986 - The Nacogdoches Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 1989 - The Texas Legislature designates Nacogdoches as the "Oldest Town in Texas" due to its long history of continuous settlement.
  • 2005 - Nacogdoches experiences significant damage and power outages due to Hurricane Rita.
  • 2010 - The population of Nacogdoches County reaches over 64,000 residents.
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