Tucker House

Historical marker location:
245 Tucker Drive, Weatherford, Texas
( The site is on the west side of Tucker Drive, one mile north of Farm Road 730.)
Marker installed: 2012
Marker size: 18" x 28"

MOSES TUCKER (1833-1890) CAME TO TEXAS FROM KENTUCKY WITH HIS TWIN BROTHER, AARON, IN 1853. A LOG CABIN WAS BUILT ON THIS LAND. AFTER SERVING IN THE CIVIL WAR, TUCKER RETURNED TO PARKER COUNTY AND TO HIS WIFE, MARTHA ELIZABETH (COCKBURN) (1839-1915), AND FAMILY. ACCORDING TO ORAL TRADITION, THE CURRENT BUILDING WAS ERECTED IN 1889 AND CONSISTS OF VERTICAL BOARDS WITH LAP SIDING IN A VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURAL STYLE. THE HOME INCLUDED TWO ROOMS WITH A CENTRAL HALL AND AN ATTIC. THE BACK HALF OF THE HOUSE WAS LATER ADDED WITH A KITCHEN AREA, PORCHES, AND A BATH. THE TUCKER FAMILY FARMED THE LAND FOR MORE THAN A CENTURY BEFORE DONATING THE PROPERTY TO THE SILVER CREEK HERITAGE SOCIETY

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 known for its love of football, and the state has produced many great football players, including legends like Tom Landry, Earl Campbell, and Vince Young.
Parker County, TX has a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century. The area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa and Comanche, before the arrival of European settlers. In the early 1850s, Texas became embroiled in conflicts with the Native American tribes, leading to the establishment of Fort Parker in what is now present-day Parker County. This fort served as protection for early settlers from Native American attacks.

In 1855, Parker County was officially established and named after Fort Parker. The county quickly grew as more settlers flocked to the region attracted by fertile land and an abundance of water sources. The advent of the Texas and Pacific Railway in the late 19th century further spurred growth and development in the county.

Parker County played a significant role in the cattle industry during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The county's open prairies became an ideal location for cattle ranching, and the development of railroads allowed ranchers to transport their livestock to markets more efficiently. This led to prosperity and economic growth in the county, with many cattle ranches operating successfully.

Over the years, Parker County has seen its fair share of challenges and triumphs. It has weathered economic downturns, faced natural disasters like the devastating tornado outbreak in 1957, and experienced growth in population and urbanization. Today, Parker County continues to thrive as a vibrant community with a rich history, welcoming residents, and picturesque landscapes that highlight its enduring legacy as an important part of Texas' past and present.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Parker County, Texas.

  • 1855: Parker County officially established on December 12.
  • 1856: Fort Worth becomes the county seat.
  • 1872: Weatherford becomes the county seat.
  • 1877: Santa Fe Railroad arrives in Weatherford.
  • 1885: The first oil well is drilled in the county.
  • 1919: Parker County experiences the deadliest tornado in Texas history, resulting in 114 fatalities.
  • 1956: The first major shopping center, Town & Country Shopping Center, opens in Weatherford.
  • 1974: Weatherford College is established.
  • 1993: Lake Weatherford Dam fails, causing significant flooding in the area.
  • 2010: Parker County celebrates its 155th anniversary.