Historical Marker

William Edward Russell

Historical marker location:
Marfa, Texas
( Marfa Cemetery)
Marker installed: 2002
Marker size: 18" x 28"

Kentucky native William Edward Russell (1839-1890) came to Texas in the 1850s and worked his way to the Big Bend region, where he traded along the Chihuahua Trail and had a store at the Horsehead Crossing of the Pecos River. Russell became a prominent landowner, rancher, merchant, farmer and silver miner in the Presidio County/Northern Mexico region. He acquired property along the Old River Road between Candelaria and Presidio and founded the settlement of Ruidoso, where he constructed irrigation ditches and set up a mill. He held several county political offices, including commissioner and sheriff. He and his wife, Marla Tomasita Rodriguez, had seven children, four of whom lived past young childhood. (2002)

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.

pioneers
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Texas random facts
Presidio County is located in southwestern Texas and has a rich and varied history. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Apache and Comanche. In the 17th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the region and established the first European settlements. These settlements served as military outposts, or presidios, hence the name "Presidio County."

During the 19th century, Presidio County played a significant role in the Texas Revolution and the Mexican-American War. Fort Leaton, a well-preserved adobe fort, served as an important staging point for both conflicts. In 1848, the Amistad Expedition, a slave rebellion, took place in the county. This event resulted in international controversy and contributed to shifting attitudes towards slavery in Texas.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Presidio County experienced growth and development due to several factors. The arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad in 1882 spurred economic activity and brought more settlers to the area. Agriculture, particularly ranching and farming, became the primary industries. The county's proximity to the Rio Grande also made it an important trade hub.

However, Presidio County faced challenges and hardships as well. The Mexican Revolution, which began in 1910, had a significant impact on the region due to its borderland location. Smuggling, violence, and instability became prevalent, affecting the county's economy and population. Today, Presidio County reflects its diverse history, with cultural influences from Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and American settlers shaping its identity.

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

  • 1850 - Presidio County established as one of the original 36 counties of Texas
  • 1854 - Fort Defiance established near Presidio to protect against Native American raids
  • 1875 - Presidio County seat moved from Fort Davis to Marfa
  • 1882 - Marfa and Presidio connected by the Galveston, Harrisburg and San Antonio Railway
  • 1884 - The Chinati Mountains declared a federal game reserve, later becoming Chinati Mountains State Natural Area
  • 1933 - Marfa becomes a major cattle-shipping center with the construction of the Presidio County Courthouse
  • 1998 - Marfa becomes known as an arts destination, after the artist Donald Judd establishes the Chinati Foundation