Historical Marker

George Morgan Perry

Historical marker location:
22 5th Ave. Perryton, Perryton, Texas
( at east side of Perry Memorial Library, 22 SE 5th Avenue -Perryton)
Marker installed: 1994
Marker size: 18" x 28"

A native of Iowa, George Morgan Perry (1862-1944) moved to the Texas Panhandle town of Ochiltree in 1886. Active in the formal organization of the county, he served as county clerk, district clerk, and county judge. A supporter of railroad building in the Panhandle, he was honored by the Santa Fe Railroad when the town of Perryton was established on the rail line and named for him in 1919. He served as first president of the Chamber of Commerce and continued to promote settlement and business development in the city until his death in 1944. (1994)

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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Ochiltree County, located in the Texas Panhandle, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various indigenous groups, including the Apache and Comanche tribes, who relied on hunting, gathering, and farming for sustenance.

The arrival of European settlers in the 19th century dramatically changed the landscape of Ochiltree County. In 1876, the county was officially created and named after William Beck Ochiltree, a Texas congressman. The town of Perryton was established as the county seat, and quickly became the center of agriculture and trade in the region.

The early settlers faced numerous challenges, including harsh environmental conditions and conflicts with Native American tribes. However, the discovery of oil in the area in the early 20th century brought significant economic growth to Ochiltree County. Oil wells were drilled, leading to the establishment of oil companies and resulting in a boom in population and development.

Today, Ochiltree County continues to be primarily an agricultural community, with farming and ranching playing a vital role in the local economy. The county is also known for its oil and gas production, attracting both residents and businesses looking to take advantage of the industry. Despite its small population, Ochiltree County has a rich history that reflects the resilience and perseverance of its early settlers and their lasting impact on the region.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Ochiltree County, Texas.

  • 1876 - Ochiltree County is officially founded as a result of the Texas Legislature creating it out of the Bexar District
  • 1880 - The first post office is established in Ochiltree County
  • 1882 - The first railroad line reaches Ochiltree County, boosting transportation and trade
  • 1885 - Perryton becomes the county seat of Ochiltree County
  • 1919 - The agricultural college at Perryton is established, fostering advancements in farming and ranching
  • 1930s - Ochiltree County, like the rest of Texas, experiences the devastating effects of the Great Depression
  • 1950s - The oil industry booms in Ochiltree County, leading to increased economic growth
  • 1995 - The Ochiltree General Hospital is founded, providing improved healthcare services to the community
  • Present - Ochiltree County continues to thrive as an agricultural and oil-producing region