John H. Reagan
Historical marker location:As congressman, 1876-1887, sponsored bill creating Interstate Commerce Commission; resigned 1891 from United States Senate to head newly-formed Railroad Commission, modeled after I.C.C., and created to regulate shipping rates and practices.
In his term, 1891-1903, railway transportation of petroleum became important in Texas, the Commission was given jurisdiction in 1917 over pipelines. This led to formation of the oil and gas division.
The Legislature made the Commission responsible in 1919 for oil and gas conservation. Probation began in 1920s. Complete regulation came in the 1930s with 1,700,000-barrel-a-day production in East Texas.
Commission policies were acclaimed when in World War II Texas was able to supply the allies with great stores of oil necessary for victory.
The Commission's goal is to prevent waste and protect oil and gas reserves by orderly regulation of exploration, production and transportation.
Such men as chairman Reagan have set high ethical standards that have continued in the Commission, causing it to merit the confidence of the people and of the petroleum industry.
Commemorative series on Texas Railroad Commission.
Erected in Cooperation with Abell-Hangar Foundation, 1966
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 also home to the world's largest honky-tonk, Billy Bob's Texas in Fort Worth. The venue covers three acres and can hold up to 6,000 people.
The early history of Reagan County can be traced back to the Native American tribes that inhabited the area, including the Lipan Apache, Comanche, and Kiowa tribes. However, the region began to see significant settlement and development in the late 19th century, as pioneers and ranchers moved in search of new opportunities. The arrival of the railroad in the early 1900s further facilitated growth and economic activity in the county.
The discovery of oil in Reagan County in the 1940s brought about a major transformation. The oil industry became a significant contributor to the local economy, attracting both large corporations and independent operators. The population of the county grew rapidly during this period, as the demand for labor in the oil fields increased. Today, Reagan County remains an important center for oil production in the Permian Basin, supporting a variety of industries and businesses.
In addition to its economic significance, Reagan County is also known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The county is home to beautiful landscapes and wildlife, drawing visitors who are interested in hunting, fishing, and outdoor activities. The county seat of Reagan County is the city of Big Lake, which serves as a hub for the surrounding communities and offers various amenities and services to residents and visitors alike.
Reagan County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Reagan County, Texas.
- 1876 - Reagan County is established on organized land from Tom Green County.
- Late 1800s - Early settlers begin to arrive in the area.
- 1900s - Ranching becomes the primary industry in the county.
- 1903 - Big Lake, the county seat, is founded.
- 1920s - Oil is discovered in the county, leading to an economic boom.
- 1947 - Reagan County Junior College is established.
- 1960s - Big Lake experiences a population increase due to oil production.
- 1990s - The county experiences a decline in population and economic activity.