Jonesboro

Historical marker location:
Manchester, Texas
( Sam Houston Park, Manchester vicinity, CR 2381, 0.2 mi SE of CR 2353.)
Marker installed: 1973
Marker size: 18" x 28"

(About a half mile NW was 19th century town) One of first ports of entry into Texas for Anglo-Americans. Opened early as 1814; heavily used by 1817. Named for 1819-21 ferry owner Henry Jones (1789-1861).

Claimed by both Mexico and the United States, town was 1828-37 county seat of Miller County, Ark. Community had 2,350 people by 1834. At this crossing Sam Houston (1832) and David Crockett (1835) entered Texas. A well-known road led southeastward to other colonies by way of Nacogdoches.

In 1836, Clarksville became Red River District's capital. By 1840 Jonesboro had lots its trade and many settlers to other areas

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.

Loading...
The Johnson Space Center, located in Houston, played a crucial role in the development of the U.S. space program. It was here that NASA trained its astronauts and mission control teams, and it continues to be an important center for space research and exploration today.
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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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