Jonathan Hamilton Baker
Historical marker location:Virginia native Jonathan Hamilton "Ham" Baker came to Texas in 1858 with his brother G. W. Baker and his uncle Eli Young. Stricken by malaria while a teacher in Fort Worth, he later moved to Palo Pinto County where his uncle Frank Baker was homesteading. Here he opened a school, believed to be the first regularly organized school in Palo Pinto, and soon after helped establish the town's first Methodist church. In 1859 Baker was chosen to lead a company of local men organized to defend the area against Indian attacks. He first served under Capt. J. R. Baylor and later participated with Capt. Lawrence Sullivan Ross in the recovery of Cynthia Ann Parker, the white woman seized by Comanches in 1836. During the Civil War he served as the leader of the home guard. Baker was also an open range cattleman, and in 1869 he began driving his herds to Kansas railheads. Active in local government, he served as deputy sheriff, justice of peace, deputy postmaster and clerk of the county and district. In 1890 he moved to Granbury, where he became a successful nurseryman. For over 60 years Baker kept a detailed diary, which now provides a thorough account of his distinguished life and the frontier of Texas
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 Johnson Space Center, located in Houston, played a crucial role in the development of the U.S. space program. It was here that NASA trained its astronauts and mission control teams, and it continues to be an important center for space research and exploration today.
The county's name, Palo Pinto, translates to "painted stick" in Spanish, referencing the colorful stripes found on the trees by early Spanish explorers. The first European settlers arrived in the area in the 1850s, primarily from the Southern United States, bringing with them cattle ranching and farming traditions that would shape the county's economy.
During the Civil War, Palo Pinto County was divided, with many residents joining the Confederate cause while others remained loyal to the Union. The war brought violence and conflicts to the area, and several battles and skirmishes took place within the county's borders.
After the war, Palo Pinto County experienced a period of growth and development. Railroads were constructed, connecting the county to larger markets for its agricultural products, and industries such as coal mining and oil drilling began to thrive. Today, Palo Pinto County continues to be primarily rural and agriculturally focused, with a mix of small towns and ranches nestled within its picturesque landscapes.
Palo Pinto County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Palo Pinto County, Texas.
- Palo Pinto County was created in 1856 from Bosque and Navarro counties.
- In the 1860s, the county saw growth due to the cattle industry and the establishment of small communities.
- The county was affected by the American Civil War from 1861 to 1865.
- In 1872, the county seat was moved from Golconda to Palo Pinto.
- In the late 1800s, the county experienced economic growth due to the oil boom.
- In 1920, the construction of Possum Kingdom Dam began, leading to the formation of Possum Kingdom Lake.
- Throughout the 20th century, the county continued to grow and develop, with an emphasis on agriculture, ranching, and oil production.
- Today, Palo Pinto County remains a vibrant community with a rich history and diverse economy.