Nolan County

Historical marker location:
Broadway St., Sweetwater, Texas
( Courthouse Square, Broadway Street, Sweetwater)
Marker installed: 1976
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Marker
© OpenStreetMap contributors

Nomadic Indians crossed this region before Anglo-American pioneers arrived here in the 1870's. The first settlers were buffalo hunters such as I.S. (Tuck) Focht, who later became a rancher and businessman, and cattlemen such as confederate veteran John R. Lewis. Created in 1876, Nolan County was one of 54 countries carved from Bexar Territory. It was named for Philip Nolan (1771-1801), an Irish-born adventurer who came to Texas to capture wild horses and was killed in a skirmish with Spanish soldiers. Sweetwater, a small settlement that had grown up around a general store, was awarded the county's first post office in March 1879. It was also named the county seat when Nolan County was organized in January 1881. Sweetwater moved 2 miles northwest to its present location on the Texas & Pacific Rail Line in April 1881. It became an important rail center when the Kansas City, Mexico & Orient and later the Santa Fe Railroad also routed their track through the town. The economy of Nolan County is based on cattle and sheep ranching; cotton and feed grain crops; and gypsum, line, and petroleum production. The population of the county increased from 640 in 1880 to 16,220 in the 1970 census.

(1975)

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 was once a part of Mexico but gained independence in 1836 after a famous battle at the Alamo.
Nolan County, Texas, located in the western part of the state, has a rich and diverse history that dates back centuries. The area originally belonged to several Native American tribes, including the Comanche, Apache, and Kiowa. Spanish explorers arrived in the 17th century, but it wasn't until the mid-19th century that European settlement began in the region.

The first permanent Anglo-American settlers arrived in the 1870s, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for ranching. The community of Sweetwater was established in 1879, named after the fresh water springs found in the area. The town quickly grew and became an important trading center for the surrounding agricultural and ranching communities.

In the late 19th century, the discovery of oil in nearby areas sparked an economic boom in Nolan County. Oil drilling and production became prevalent, attracting workers and boosting the local economy. This resulted in the development of additional towns and communities, such as Roscoe, that relied on the oil industry for growth and prosperity.

Throughout the 20th century, Nolan County continued to benefit from the oil industry, while also diversifying its economy. The agriculture sector remained important, with cotton farming and cattle ranching being the primary sources of income. Additionally, wind energy became a significant part of the region's economy in recent years, with numerous wind farms being established.

Today, Nolan County is known for its rich history, vibrant communities, and diverse economic activities, including agriculture, oil, and renewable energy. The county's heritage is celebrated through various cultural events and preservation efforts, ensuring that the history of Nolan County remains a significant part of its identity.

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

  • 1858 - Nolan County is created and organized from Bexar County.
  • 1879 - The first permanent settlement is established in the area by brothers Isaac and Lewis Newton from Illinois.
  • 1880 - The town of Sweetwater is founded and becomes the first county seat.
  • 1881 - Sweetwater wins the election to remain the county seat.
  • 1890 - The Texas & Pacific Railway reaches Sweetwater, promoting growth and development in the area.
  • 1911 - Roscoe is incorporated and becomes a major agricultural center.
  • 1928 - Completion of Lake Sweetwater, providing a reliable water supply for the region.
  • 1942-1945 - Nolan County contributes to the World War II effort through the establishment of airbases and military training facilities.
  • 1950s - Sweetwater becomes known as the "Windmill City" due to the large number of windmills manufactured in the area.
  • 1973 - The Nolan County Coliseum is built, becoming a popular venue for events and activities.
  • 2004 - Sweetwater hosts the first annual Rattlesnake Roundup, attracting visitors from around the world.