Home County of Doctor Oscar H. Loyd (1868-1959)
Historical marker location:Oldham County's first physician. A civic leader, weather researcher and humanitarian. Born in Kansas, he attended medical school in Missouri, and in 1907 moved to Vega with his wife, Lulu Mills Loyd. Despite opposition from ranchers, he introduced farming to the area; broke sod with county's first steam tractor; exhibited best produce in the county -- first at the Tri-State Fair (which he helped to organize) in Amarillo, and then at state fairs in Iowa, Illinois, Missouri and Texas. A volunteer weather observer for over 30 years, he telephoned daily reports at his own expense to the Amarillo Weather Bureau. His weather notes are now in Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum in Canyon. To make sick calls, Doctor Loyd bought a Maxwell, the first automobile in the county. During the 1918 flu epidemic he not only cared for the sick day and night but also dispensed food and buried the dead. As a civic leader, he organized the county's first Chamber of Commerce and a baseball team which he transported to its games. He actively sponsored the original Highway 66 Association. His estate was left to religious and charitable groups in the county
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.
The Alamo, a mission in San Antonio, is perhaps the most famous historical site in Texas. It was the site of a key battle during the Texas Revolution in 1836.
In 1876, the Texas Panhandle Land Company purchased a large tract of land in present-day Oldham County, sparking a period of rapid settlement. By the late 1880s, the town of Tascosa had become the county seat, playing a pivotal role in the development of Oldham County. Tascosa served as a major supply hub for nearby cattle ranches and became a notorious haven for outlaws and pioneers.
However, the town's prominence was short-lived. In 1898, a raging fire destroyed much of Tascosa, causing many residents to relocate to the newly established town of Vega. Vega quickly emerged as the primary community in the county, and in 1915, it officially became the county seat.
Throughout the 20th century, Oldham County experienced growth and development in various sectors. Agriculture, especially cattle ranching, remained a vital industry, while oil and gas exploration also became significant contributors to the local economy. In recent decades, the county has embraced renewable energy, with wind farms playing a growing role in its energy production.
Today, Oldham County is a close-knit community known for its western heritage and beautiful landscapes. It continues to thrive economically while preserving its historical roots, making it an attractive destination for visitors and residents alike.
Oldham County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Oldham County, Texas.
- 1876 - Oldham County is first established.
- 1882 - The county's first post office, Tascosa, is established.
- 1883 - The county seat is moved from Tascosa to Vega.
- 1888 - The Santa Fe Railroad is extended to Oldham County.
- 1890 - The population of Oldham County reaches 1,119.
- 1915 - A fire destroys most of Vega, causing residents to rebuild the town.
- 1926 - Route 66 is designated and passes through Vega, bringing increased traffic to the area.
- 1930 - The population of Oldham County reaches its peak at 4,051.
- 1957 - The town of Adrian is incorporated within the county.
- 2007 - Oldham County celebrates its 125th anniversary.