The Historic LS
Historical marker location:Great early ranch well known to badman Billy the Kid and other famed western characters. The LS was founded in 1870s by former Indian territory trader W. M. D. Lee and New York financier Lucien Scott. Through Lee's efforts, the LS had water and grass for over 100,000 cattle and sometimes drove 6 or 7 herds a year up the trail. When thefts followed Billy the Kid's visits, LS men rode west and brought back their cattle; and when Tascosa gunfights put men into Boot Hill graves, the LS escaped disaster. But drouth brought heavy losses in 1886; and grant of 3,000,000 acres of panhandle lands to the XIT (state of Texas' payment for constructing Capitol in Austin) cut old LS range in half. Lee left in 1890 to promote a ship canal in Houston. Scott died 1893. W. H. Gray and E. F. Swift of Chicago bought LS in 1905. Memorable LS men included foreman J. E. McAlister, later a Channing merchant. One of the $25-a-month cowboys was E. L. Doheny, later a multi-millionaire oil man involved in 1920's Teapot Dome scandal. Ownership of brand and 96,000 acres of LS range passed to Col. C. T. Herring, rancher and civic leader of Amarillo; his estate still operates it
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 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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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.