William Whipple Johnson
Historical marker location:William Whipple Johnson, the oldest of seven children, was born on October 11, 1843 in Ionia, Michigan to Ethan S. and Jane B. (Whipple) Johnson. He attended school in Ypsilanti, Michigan and in 1860 formed a business partnership with his father and his younger brother Harvey. The three men provided merchandise to the people of Ionia and within several years expanded their interests to include real estate and a hotel operation. During the Panic of 1873 and the collapse of the national economy the business suffered greatly, and the men moved from Michigan, leaving their debts behind them.
By 1880, William and Harvey were in Strawn, Texas, where they opened a business in the name of Anna Fatzinger Campbell, who became William's second wife. The T&P Railroad reached Strawn that same year. William and Anna both served as postmasters, and the family established Campbell and Company, a mercantile that catered to local railroad workers. The Johnson brothers also secured a contract with the railroad to provide crossties for the line, and they created many jobs in the area for cutting cedar posts.
In 1885, with the death of their three-year-old daughter Marion, William and Anna built a mausoleum on their property. There, they later interred Harvey (d. 1888) and a son, William Harvey (d. 1894).
William Johnson expanded his business interests to include coal and other mining operations, and livestock trading. In 1905, he and Anna bought a 4,200-acre ranch outside of Gordon and erected a new mausoleum for their children's remains. Anna placed William's body there in 1914 and set aside money for a more permanent structure here on Salt Point. It was completed in 1923, a year after her death. The Johnsons are remembered for creating communities and business opportunities throughout Palo Pinto County. (2004)
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.
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
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 concise overview of the key events in 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.