Lone Star Fair
Historical marker location:Henry L. Kinney (b. 1814), founder of Corpus Christi, began by October 1851 to organize the Lone Star Fair to boost local economy. The fair was publicized to attract new settlers to the area, but was a thinly-veiled attempt to recruit men for the army of Gen. Jose J.M. Carbajal, a Virginia-educated revolutionary who was trying to liberate northern Mexico. Kinney called on Dr. Ashbel Smith of Galveston, Governor P.H. Bell, and ex-governors J.P. Henderson and G.T. Wood to help promote the fair. Kinney advertised internationally and went deeply into debt to build the facilities. When the fair opened, May 1, 1852, main attractions included races on a new racetrack, bullfights by the noted Mexico City Matador, Don Camarena, the popular Maltby's Circus, a theatrical troupe from New Orleans, philosophical oratory, stock and agricultural shows, and exhibitions of horsemanship and wild bull riding, with prizes for all competitive events. Kinney planned for an attendance of 30,000, but only 2,000 visitors appeared. The failure of the fair was attributed to the remoteness of Corpus Christi, poor transportation, and the revolutionary activity the fair supported. The venture bankrupted Kinney and he soon departed for Nicaragua to recoup his fortunes
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 home to the world's largest bat colony. The Bracken Bat Cave, near San Antonio, is home to millions of Mexican free-tailed bats.
In 1828, the Mexican government granted land to Colonel Henry Lawrence Kinney, an American entrepreneur, who founded the trading post of Kinney's Trading Post near the Nueces River. This marked the beginning of Anglo settlement in the area. Nueces County was officially established in 1846, following the Texas Revolution and subsequent annexation of Texas by the United States.
Throughout the 19th century, Nueces County played a significant role in Texas' development. The town of Corpus Christi, which served as the county seat, became an important regional trade center due to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. The county flourished as a shipping hub for livestock, cotton, and other agricultural goods.
The county's history was greatly influenced by its participation in several military conflicts. During the American Civil War, Corpus Christi served as a center for Confederate forces, and the county witnessed both Union and Confederate occupation. Additionally, the county played an important role during World War II, with Corpus Christi becoming a major training center for Navy pilots.
In recent times, Nueces County has continued to grow and evolve. The county's economy has diversified, with tourism, oil and gas, and the military being major contributors. The region boasts numerous attractions, including beautiful coastal beaches, cultural sites, and a vibrant culinary scene. Today, Nueces County remains an important and thriving part of Texas' history and economy.
Nueces County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Nueces County, Texas.
- 1836 - Nueces County is established as one of the original counties in the Republic of Texas.
- 1845 - Texas becomes a state of the United States, and Nueces County remains part of the state.
- 1848 - The county seat is established in Corpus Christi.
- 1850 - The population of Nueces County reaches 756 residents.
- 1852 - The Corpus Christi Cathedral is constructed, becoming a significant landmark in the county.
- 1872 - The railroad reaches Nueces County, leading to increased economic development and population growth.
- 1875 - The Nueces County Courthouse, built in the Renaissance Revival style, is completed.
- 1900 - A devastating hurricane strikes the county, causing significant damage and loss of life.
- 1914 - The Port of Corpus Christi is established, becoming a major hub for trade and industry.
- 1931 - The Nueces County Courthouse is expanded and remodeled to its current appearance.
- 1940 - Nueces County experiences a population boom, with the county's residents totaling over 101,000.
- 1987 - Hurricane Gilbert causes widespread destruction in Nueces County and the surrounding areas.
- Present - Nueces County continues to be a thriving center for commerce, industry, and tourism.