Historical Marker

Five Signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence from Red River County

Historical marker location:
101 North Walnut Street, Clarksville, Texas
( Town square on US 82)
Marker installed: 2009
Marker size: 27" x 42'

On March 2, 1836, members of the Convention of 1836 signed the Texas Declaration of Independence at Washington-on-the-Brazos, declaring Texas independent from Mexico. Of the 59 signers, five were from Red River County, more than from any of the other old Spanish-Mexican districts or the new Republic of Texas counties. The five signers were Richard Ellis, Robert Hamilton, Albert Hamilton Latimer, Samuel Price Carson and Collin McKinney. Richard Ellis (1781-1846) was born in Virginia and moved to Pecan Point on the Red River by 1834, establishing a plantation. He was President of the Convention of 1836 and served two terms as Senator (1836-40) of the Republic of Texas. Robert Hamilton (1783-1843) immigrated from Scotland to North Carolina in 1807. He fought in the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812 and came to Texas in 1834, settling on Pecan Bayou near Lagrange (later Madras). In 1836, he became Chief Justice of Red River County. Albert Hamilton Latimer (c. 1800-1877) settled near Pecan Point in 1833 and served two terms (1840-42) as Representative for Red River County. A Unionist, Latimer was a delegate to the Constitutional Convention of 1866, and was appointed State Comptroller (1857) and Associate Justice of the Texas Supreme Court (1869). Samuel Price Carson (1798-1838) served as a state and U.S. Representative for North Carolina before coming to Texas. He was elected Secretary of State for the Texas ad interim government. Collin McKinney (1766-1861) was born in New Jersey. He served three terms (1836-38, 1839-40) as a Texas State Representative. Both Collin County and the City of McKinney are named for him. Today, these Red River County pioneers continue to be remembered as leading figures in Texas Independence. (2009)

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.

The cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Texas random facts
Red River County, Texas has a rich and varied history that dates back to before the arrival of European settlers. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Wichita, who thrived off the land's abundant natural resources. In the early 19th century, the region became an important center of trade and commerce due to its location along the Red River, serving as a crucial crossing point for settlers moving westward.

The county was officially established in 1835 and named after the iconic Red River that flows along its eastern border. During the Texas Revolution, Red River County played a significant role as a hub for communications and supply lines. The Battle of Jonesborough, fought here in 1837, marked an important victory for Texan forces and secured the area as a part of the Republic of Texas.

Throughout the 19th century, the county continued to grow and develop, with agriculture becoming a major industry. Cotton became the primary crop, and the county boasted numerous plantations, which relied heavily on enslaved labor. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought further economic prosperity to the area, leading to a boom in oil production.

In the modern era, Red River County has evolved into a primarily rural and agricultural community, with farming, ranching, and timber production being the main economic activities. The county also offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including fishing and hunting, due to its picturesque landscapes and natural assets. Today, Red River County takes pride in its unique history and continues to honor its cultural heritage while embracing the opportunities and challenges of the present.

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

  • 1835 - Red River County established by the Republic of Texas
  • 1840 - Population of the county reaches around 1,500
  • 1841 - Clarksville becomes the county seat
  • 1845 - Texas becomes a state
  • 1861 - Start of the American Civil War
  • 1871 - Red River County Courthouse constructed
  • 1876 - Population of the county reaches around 10,000
  • 1890 - Introduction of railroad in the county
  • 1930s - Great Depression hits Red River County hard, causing economic hardships
  • 1960s - Construction of the Pat Mayse Lake reservoir
  • 2010 - Red River County's population stands at around 12,860