Tascosa
Historical marker location:Contains one of the famous Boot Hill cemeteries of wild west days and was the gathering place for pleasure-seeking cowboys, gamblers and "bad men" of the Panhandle in the 1870s and '80s. Outlaws such as Billy the Kid and lawmen like Pat Garrett and Bat Masterson walked its streets. At first an Indian camping place at a crossing on the Canadian River, then Mexican trading point and pastoral settlement, Atascosa (Boggy Place) rapidly became an open-range trading center and capital of a cattle empire from 1876 to 1887. Romero Plaza and Howard and Rinehart store marked the boom in growth. Struggles between large ranch owners like Charles Goodnight and the "Little Men" of the plains were focused there. Became seat of Oldham County, 1880, and the legal capital of ten unorganized counties. Progress spelled doom for the town. The railroad in 1887 created other important towns and barbed wire fences ended the vital trading routes and great roundups. The open ranges and cattle trails like the famous Dodge City Trail were gone. When county seat was moved to Vega in 1915, few residents remained. Today "Old Tascosa" retains only the courthouse
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 glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped 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.