State Antiquities Landmark

Saint Joseph Church

301 El Polvo Road, Redford Texas
Significance:
Church

Jurisdiction:
Hector Morales

State Antiquities Landmarks (SALs) are designated by the Texas Historical Commission (THC) and receive legal protection under the Antiquities Code of Texas (the Code). The Code defines all cultural resources on non-federal public lands in the State of Texas as eligible to be designated as SALs. Historic buildings and other aboveground historic resources must be listed in the National Register of Historic Places before they can be designated as SALs, but archeological sites do not have the same prerequisite.

SAL designation does not mean that sites or buildings cannot be altered or destroyed. The land-owning agency must consult with the THC about such proposed actions through the permit process, and the THC will determine whether the work will be allowed.

Buildings designated as SALs are listed in the Texas Historic Sites Atlas. However, information about designated archeological sites is not available to the general public to protect the sites from vandalism and destruction.

farms animals African/Christian Methodist Episcopal denomination
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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 concise overview of the key events in 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